Charlotte, NC - July 19, 2006 - Jacobsen®, a Textron (NYSE: TXT) company, announces improvements to its class-leading G-Plex™ III riding greens mower now offering operators and mechanics greater performance, ease of use and reliability.

G-Plex III mower improvements include:

• A simplified electrical system including a new dash panel, electronic controller, higher quality switches and automatic glow plug timer provide greater reliability, convenience and less downtime.

• A new air purge filter on the fuel line prevents engine hesitation on slopes and sharp turns.

• A wider, taller fuel tank neck and larger cap for easier filling and fewer spills.

• Improved pull handle design on the swing-out center arm that reduces effort when moving the center reel in and out.

• Revised hydraulic valving ensures consistent front and rear lift phasing is maintained. This helps prevent scalping the turf when lifting or lowering the reels.

• Improved operator comfort with a new mow pedal placement and greater rearward seating adjustment.

"These new features strengthen the position of the G-Plex III as the best riding greens mower available," says Quinn Derby, Jacobsen product manager.

"With a comfortable operator station, easy-to-use controls, greater visibility and legendary Jacobsen reels, you get a great all-around performer with the power to do the tough jobs and the finesse to leave the perfect cut."

The G-Plex III enhancements are the result of Jacobsen listening to its customers from around the world.

"Understanding the needs of our customers inspired us to add new features that make the G-Plex III easier to use and maintain.

These improvements translate to the operator never having to think about some of these components ever again," explains Derby.

Customer feedback also prompted Jacobsen to discontinue production of its Greens King™ VI riding mower effective July 1.

The Greens King IV and Greens King IV Plus will continue to be offered along with the E-Plex™ II and G-Plex III family of mowers.

About Jacobsen

Jacobsen manufactures a full range of vehicles and turf maintenance equipment for sports field, golf, turf, professional lawn care, municipal and industrial applications. The company markets BOB-CAT®, Brouwer®, Bunton®, Cushman®, Jacobsen®, Ryan® and Steiner™ brand products internationally through an extensive distribution network. Jacobsen is a Textron company. Additional information is available at www.jacobsen.com.

About Textron

Textron Inc. is a $10 billion multi-industry company operating in 33 countries with approximately 37,000 employees in continuing operations. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO and Greenlee, among others. More information is available at www.textron.com.