Stihl Launches BT140, Its First Battery-Powered Auger
With battery tools becoming more widespread and more importantly, productive and reliable, it was only time before we saw augers or post-hole borers.
Japanese company Kubota Corporation has reported that a solid performance by its farm and construction machinery divisions in both domestic and export markets was largely responsible for the 18.5% increase in revenue last year to ¥2,196.8b (US$19b) during 2021.
Nearly 85% (¥1,864.8b/US$16.1b) was generated by tractors, farm equipment brands including Kverneland and Great Plains, which alongside engines was up 23.6% on 2020.
Revenue at home in Japan increased by 1.3% from the previous year to ¥602.8b (US$5.2b), while ag and construction machinery export revenue increased 27.8% to ¥1,554.3b (US$13.4b).
Export sales were driven by the strong demand for tractors and construction machinery in North America, Europe and Australia, while farm equipment sales were strong in India.
While the domestic farm and construction machinery market is expected to remain static during 2022, exports are forecast to increase with continued solid demand in North America and Europe, likely to drive a further increase in consolidated revenue for 2022 to ¥2,450.0b (around US$21b).
In other Kubota news, the manufacturer plans to launch the world’s first hydrogen-powered fuel cell tractor in 2025, initially for the European and American markets. Reports suggest that progress is well advanced in developing tractors ranging from 50 to 100 horsepower, with a prototype ready by 2023. Prices are expected to be around 40% higher than current diesel-powered alternatives.
Farms across the upper North Island are trialling different pasture mixes as part of a research programme that aims to build greater resilience into farming systems.
Election years are always a concerning time for farmers, according to DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown.
The Ballance Farm Environment Awards are coming to the West Coast of the South Island.
Most dairy regions around the country have had a pretty good season so far says Tracy Brown.
Rural leader Mark Hooper has been appointed as an independent director to the NZPork board, bringing extensive farming, governance and advocacy experience to the role.
OPINION: It seems Canterbury processor Synlait is still in the doldrums.
OPINION: Get offside with New Zealand First leader Winston Peters at your own peril.