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.
Horticulture New Zealand says proposed changes to the Plant Variety Rights Act 2022 will drive innovation, investment and long-term productivity.
More than 1200 exhibitors will showcase their products and services at next month’s National Fieldays, with sites nearly sold out.
Despite difficult trading conditions for European machinery manufacturers brought about conflicts in Ukraine and Iran, alongside the United States imposing punitive tariffs, Italian manufacturer Maschio Gaspardo, has seen turnover increase 12% in 2025 to €390 million (NZ$775m) with a net profit of €11.2 million (NZ$22.3).
New Zealand innovation company Techion, best known for its animal diagnostics platform, FECPAK has signed an exclusive strategic partnership with Farmlands to bring independent animal health disease intelligence to its customers.
Zespri says it welcomes the recently signed Western Bay of Plenty Regional Deal, describing it as an important step towards supporting growth in the region and for New Zealand's kiwifruit industry.
Troubled milk processor Synlait has lost its third chief executive in five years.