Kyle Wiggers
Scythe, a technology startup that specializes in electric robotic lawn mowers, has raised $42 million in its latest funding round, led by Energy Impact Partners, with participation from ArcTern Ventures, Alumni Ventures, and the Alexa Fund. The company, which was founded in 2020, has now raised over $60 million in total to date.
The M.52 Robotic Mower
The Boulder, Colorado-based firm’s robotic mower, the M.52, is designed to tackle the unique challenges of commercial landscaping.
The M.52 is equipped with sensors and artificial intelligence to navigate through large-scale commercial properties like corporate campuses, parks, sports fields, and HOA complexes, with steep slopes and tough terrain. Additionally, the M.52 is built to withstand the rough treatment of daily commercial landscape operations, such as loading and unloading from trailers and moving through tightly packed depots.
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Expansion and Deliveries
Scythe began delivering the M.52 to customers in Texas late last year and is now expanding to Florida. The new funding will be used to fulfill the 7,500 existing reservations for the M.52 and to expand the company’s team.
The company currently has over 50 employees and plans to hire dozens more over the next 12 months across various engineering disciplines, including computer vision, robotics, mechanical, and electrical engineering. The company also plans to double the size of its manufacturing and customer teams as it builds and deploys more M.52 mowers.
Impact on the Lawn Care Industry
While the current market conditions have been challenging for fundraising, Scythe was able to find like-minded investors who are committed to addressing the climate crisis and investing in companies that offer sustainable solutions. The shift towards electric and autonomous lawn mowers, like the M.52, could lead to a reduction in emissions and labor costs, making services more affordable for consumers.
Future Plans
With the additional funding, Scythe plans to expand its reach and fulfill existing reservations for the M.52 robotic mower. The company also plans to expand its team and double the size of its manufacturing and customer teams. Additionally, the company is exploring ways to integrate voice controls into the M.52 to make it even more user-friendly and efficient.
Conclusion
Scythe’s M.52 robotic mower is a game changer for the lawn care industry and is a reflection of the growing trend towards more sustainable and efficient technology. With $42 million in funding, the company is well-positioned to bring its technology to market and disrupt the traditional lawn care industry.
