SDF hitting the high notes
Tractor and harvester manufacturer Same Deutz Fahr (SDF) closed 2022 with unprecedented growth in revenues and earnings.
Tractor maker SDF believes many accidents are caused by reduced visibility from today's larger tractors and cites reports that Germany alone reported 42 tractor-related fatalities in 2014.
A new SDF camera safety device, designed to eliminate blindspots at the front and sides of the brand's tractors, is called DEE (driver extended eyes); it comes from the safety conscious automobile sector and is a first on a tractor.
Three cameras (front and each side) relay pictures to the tractor's I-Monitor 2, which combines with an audible alarm to alert the driver to anyone stepping into these danger zones. In addition the tractor will not move until the endangered person gets out of harm's way.
The system is also said to be particularly useful when pulling out of road junctions, as creeping forward will give a full 180 degree field of view from the two side cameras and alert the driver to approaching traffic.
The front camera is said to be great for hooking up front mounted implements or attachments. Available during 2016 for 7 and 9 series tractors.
The Push-Up Challenge, an event which combines mental health and fitness, is set to launch in New Zealand in 2026.
Last month's Agritechnica event led to a wide group of manufacturers celebrating successes when the 2026 Tractor of the Year Competition winners, selected by a panel of European journalists, were announced in Hanover Germany.
According to the latest Federated Farmers banking survey, farmers are more satisfied with their bank and less under pressure, however, the sector is well short of confidence levels seen last decade.
Farmer confidence has taken a slight dip according to the final Rabobank rural confidence survey for the year.
Former Agriculture Minister and Otaki farmer Nathan Guy has been appointed New Zealand’s Special Agricultural Trade Envoy (SATE).
Alliance Group has commissioned a new heat pump system at its Mataura processing plant in Southland.