Kia New Zealand reveals pricing for all-new ute
Just when you thought there wasn’t enough choices for a ute, Kia New Zealand has announced pricing for one of the most eagerly anticipated new model launches of 2025.
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.
The Good Carbon Farm has partnered with Tolaga Bay Heritage Charitable Trust to deliver its first project in Tairāwhiti Gisborne.
Education union NZEI Te Riu Roa says that while educators will support the Government’s investment in learning support, they’re likely to be disappointed that it has been paid for by defunding expert teachers.
The Government says it is sharpening its focus and support for the food and fibre industry in Budget 2025.
A European Union regulation ensuring that the products its citizens consume do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation worldwide threatens $200m of New Zealand beef and leather exports.
A long-acting, controlled- release capsule designed to protect ewes from internal parasites during the lambing period is back on the market following a comprehensive reassessment.
Healthcare appears to be the big winner in this year's budget as agriculture and environment miss out.