Tractor, harvester IT comes of age
Over the last halfdecade, digital technology has appeared to be the “must-have” for tractor and machinery companies, who believe that bringing IT to tractors and farming will offer its customers huge benefits.
French handling specialists Manitou has developed its first all-electric telehandler concept aimed at the agricultural market.
This should prove useful for those operating in enclosed cattle yards, greenhouses and environments where emission fumes might be a problem.
Said to offer a maximum lift capacity of 2.5 tonnes, reducing to 2 tonnes at the maximum lift height of 6 metres, the MLT 625e follows on from the construction version shown at last year’s Bauma Exhibition.
The agricultural version shares the same technology, with the usual diesel engine exchanged for a 14kW electric motor to power the hydrostatic transmission and a second 25kW unit for the boom hydraulics.
A 25kWh lithium-ion battery should provide around four hours of continuous use in the standard operating mode. A regeneration system recovers energy during deceleration, thereby helping to extend operating times.
The battery can be replenished by an on-board 9kW charger. A recharge takes around three hours when plugged into a 380v socket, or slightly longer when using a standard 220v outlet.
A ‘boost mode’, activated by the touch of a button on the dashboard, propels the handler to its maximum speed of 16km/h quickly, but also results in faster boom and bucket cycle times.
Offered with standard, all-wheel and crab steering modes, 4WS offers a tight turning radius of only 3.31m. Meanwhile, the electric model can work with the same attachments as its conventional diesel MLT 625 counterpart.
A driver-presence sensor, alongside an automatic parking brake, are part of the standard package. This also includes LED main beam and working lights, a phone holder and an adjustable steering column.
While the MLT 625e is still a concept, factory sources suggest that the French manufacturer will open its order book in the second part of 2024 for deliveries in mid-2025.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
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