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.
TRACTOR COMPANY New Holland has added its Electro Command semi-powershift transmission to the T5 tractor range, saying it expects this feature to increase the machines’ appeal to livestock and mixed farmers, and contractors.
Three models are offered, with power ratings of 99-114hp. The range’s “class-leading” common rail technology gives it Tier 4A compliance. And the machines have the maker’s deluxe VisionView cab.
“The T5 Electro Command will become the tractor of choice for intensive transport, hay and forage and mixed operations, courtesy of its efficient transmission,” says Kyle Baxter, New Holland operations manager for C B Norwood Distributors Ltd.
He also expects the T5 Electro Command to suit councils and road maintenance crews because of “an ideal range of working speeds and outstanding all-round visibility”.
The Electro Command semi-powershift transmission is a better version of the transmission currently fitted to the NH T6 range. This transmission has 16 forward/reverse, and enables operators to select up to eight gears via up- or downshift buttons on the transmission lever without physically moving it.
Range changing is made even easier by three buttons on the right hand Command Arc. The gear selected is displayed on the instrument cluster.
For slow-speed operators such as growers, an additional clutch pack and reduction gearing provides an additional 16 gears below the standard gearing – 32x32 gears for speeds as low as 280m/hour. The creeper function is engaged by a switch on the Command Arc.
Choose the VisionView cab and optional Comfort Ride cab suspension, and the T5 offers an “unsurpassed operating environment,” says CB Norwood. Familiar to users of the T6, T7 and T8 ranges, this cab suspension counteracts harsh bumps, reducing driver fatigue.
Greenlea Premier Meats managing director Anthony (Tony) Egan says receiving the officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) honour has been humbling.
Waikato dairy farmer Neil Bateup, made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in the New Year 2026 Honours list, says he’s grateful for the award.
Another Australian state has given the green light to virtual fencing, opening another market for Kiwi company Halter.
Farmer interest continues to grow as a Massey University research project to determine the benefits or otherwise of the self-shedding Wiltshire sheep is underway. The project is five years in and has two more years to go. It was done mainly in the light of low wool prices and the cost of shearing. Peter Burke recently went along to the annual field day held Massey's Riverside farm in the Wairarapa.
Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July.
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