The Business Case for Robotic Mowers at Driving Ranges

For driving range managers and owners, the balance between maintaining a clean, presentable outfield and keeping operating costs low is a constant challenge. With balls flying all day and turf taking a battering, ensuring your range looks tidy and professional can demand serious time, labour and machinery upkeep.

But what if that daily mowing could happen on its own, around the clock—without the need for constant staffing or heavy machinery?

That’s where robotic mowing comes in. Automated turf care is no longer a futuristic novelty; it’s a smart, commercially viable solution that’s already helping driving ranges across the UK cut costs, improve presentation and operate more efficiently.

An Always-Presentable Outfield

Presentation matters. Whether your customers are amateur enthusiasts or serious golfers, the condition of your outfield shapes their experience. Scattered balls and overgrown turf can create a neglected look—especially in peak hours.

Robotic mowers, such as those from AMS Robotics, operate continuously and quietly throughout the day and night, keeping your outfield trimmed to a consistent height. They move around autonomously, avoiding ball-collection vehicles and working around your schedule.

The result? A range that always looks clean, professional and well-maintained—without disturbing players or requiring constant manual mowing.

Cost Savings Through Automation

Traditional mowing at a range typically requires staff time, fuel, and the maintenance of costly ride-on equipment. Downtime for mowing often means stopping ball collection or disrupting usage—something no range wants during busy periods.

With robotic mowing, the machine does the work while you and your staff stay focused on revenue-driving tasks, from customer service to ball management. The electricity used to run a robot mower is significantly cheaper than petrol or diesel, and because it mows gradually, wear and tear on the turf is minimised extending the life of your surface and reducing the need for frequent repairs or reseeding.

What’s more, the initial investment in a robotic mower pays for itself over time. By reducing the need for dedicated mowing staff and eliminating fuel costs, many driving ranges see a return on investment (ROI) within the first 18–24 months of use. That’s before factoring in the intangible benefits—like improved presentation, reduced machinery noise, and the marketing edge of offering a more sustainable facility.

Built for Heavy Commercial Use

One common concern from driving range owners is whether robotic mowers can withstand the high footfall and constant activity of a commercial facility. The answer? Absolutely.

AMS robotic mowers, such as the Belrobotics BigMow, are specifically engineered for large, high-use spaces. With cutting capacities of up to 24,000m² and durable design components, they’re built for reliability, even under challenging conditions. Plus, integrated GPS and anti-collision technology ensures safe, efficient operation alongside ball collection vehicles and foot traffic.

And because they’re electric, they run quietly and cleanly, without the emissions or noise pollution of traditional mowers—making them ideal for early morning or overnight operation.

A Smarter Way to Run Your Range

In a business where margins matter and first impressions count, robotic mowing offers a simple, forward-thinking way to take your range operations to the next level. With minimal supervision, low ongoing costs, and round-the-clock turf care, it’s no wonder so many facilities are making the switch.