European tractor registrations down
A total of 108,800 tractors were registered across Europe in the first six months of 2022, with 31,900 tractors of 37kW (50 hp) and under and 76,900 of 38kW and above.
MANY TECHNICAL features formerly limited to “top tractor classes” are now found in four models in the Fendt 500 Vario series, a new class in the compact standard tractor market, says AGCO.
Innovations and equipment options give the 500 Vario “unrivalled competitive advantages” in the 125 to 165hp range, including “cutting-edge engine performance and fuel saving SCR technology”.
The new 500 Vario tractors are powered by a 4.04L 4-cylinder-Deutz engine with four valves per cylinder and common rail injection.
For the 500 Vario series, Fendt also uses the fuel-saving SCR technology familiar from the 700, 800 and 900 Vario tractor series.
Since exhaust after-treatment with AdBlue urea solution takes place after the combustion process, and external exhaust gas recirculation is not required, the engine can be optimally tuned. So as well as improving fuel economy, it also increases power and makes handling livelier, Agco says.
The maker’s Vario transmission ML 90 is notable: stepless speed adjustment has lots of potential to save time and money. “With the tractor management system (TMS), the tractor is always working at an economic optimum. Operators only need to enter the desired speed, then the activated TMS controls the engine and transmission – that means efficiency fully automatically. New in the 500 Vario is the automatic maximum output control.
In the cab the windscreen curves up into the roof and provides a full view of a raised front loader. More room and nearly 6m2 of glazing make the cab feel spacious.
All functions are found on the new Varioterminal and the right armrest, which moves along with the driver seat.
Automatic steering, camera function, documentation system and ISOBUS implement control have found their way into this power class. The maker’s automatic steering system is said to allow longer work time in the tractor – day or night.
The 500 Vario offers ideal automated functions for pass-to-pass work, and hydraulics ample for implements designed for this power class.
The right armrest is the central operating element. Even during turning manoeuvres, there is no need to switch between controls in the 500 Vario, because operators can comfortably rest their arm on the right armrest and control the tractor and implement with the multi-function joystick and the Varioterminal.
An average of six percent less overlapping, as well as savings in fuel and operating materials, such as seeds and fertiliser, are possible with VarioGuide. The documentation system enables relevant data to be logged easily and quickly.
As many as five electrohydraulic double-acting valves are found at the rear plus two separate in the front, power beyond and ISOBUS connection. Connections total at least 22, front and rear.
A top speed of 50 km/h at a reduced engine speed enables swift and economical on-road driving. The self-levelling front axle suspension, steering system, shock load stabilising, cab suspension, seat suspension and automatic steering axle lock, ensure the best ride comfort and safety.
www.fendt.com.au
A further ten commercial beef farmers have been selected to take part in the Informing New Zealand Beef (INZB) programme to help drive the uptake of genetics in the industry.
This morning, NZ Young Farmers (NZYF) has announced that Cheyne Gillooly will take over as its chief executive in June.
The message for the 2025 World Bee Day is a call to action for sustainable practices that support bees, improve food security, and protect biosecurity in the face of mounting climate pressures.
Consumers around the world are willing to pay more for products containing dairy and this is driving demand for butter and cream, says Fonterra.
Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters often describes NZ as a small and isolated nation situated 'just north of the penguins' but says in terms of global affairs, NZ and other small nations should be judged on the quality of their arguments and not the size of their military.
Use of agricultural drones by contractors in New Zealand is soaring.