increase font size
Agrifac has developed a diesel electric version of its Vanguard 55.
Becoming the norm in the automobile industry, but much less so in agriculture, Dutch self-propelled sprayer manufacturer Agrifac has developed a diesel-electric version of its Vanguard 55.
The hybrid version of the Vanguard 55E, sees the current six-cylinder 212/284hp(157/212kW) engine, swapped for a four-cylinder 169hp (124kW) engine, supplemented by an 80kWh battery pack. In practice, the engine acts as a range extender, only being switched on to charge the battery. The hybrid is expected to burn around 35% less fuel than the diesel variant, achieved by part-time operation and the more efficient electric drivetrain.
Seeing the hydraulic wheel motors replaced for electric units and featuring electrically powered filling and spray pump, Agrifac suggests the hybrid machine should be able to work in the fully electrical mode for around two hours, before the diesel engine cuts in to recharge the battery.
They suggest that as most sprayers typically work for a few hours in the morning and again in the evening, the battery pack can also be charged back at the farm between operations.
The company has stated that the hybrid drive platform will be further developed, tested and validated, but based on the current development timeline, the first “hybrid” machines could be available as early as next year.
Looking further ahead, the 5500-litre prototype could also be adapted to work fully electric or equipped with a hydrogen-powered fuel cell, with the electric powertrain in both configurations being the same.
Building on the success of the existing Massey Ferguson 7S series, ahead of the upcoming EIMA Show, the manufacturer has announced the arrival of its new MF 7S MARK 2 range, offering six choices from 170 to 245hp, positioned between the current MF 7S and the MF 8S Xtra series.
French manufacturer Pichon has expanded its SV slurry tanker range with the launch of two new models.
Recently revealed, Krone’s new Series Six, BiG Pack Plus and Pro balers are designed to use standardised components, interfaces, and control concepts, including pick-up, knotter systems and user interfaces.
Consuming around six years and more than 35,000 hours of physical and digital testing, the new sixth-generation Valtra T Series is being described as the most significant new release in the company’s history.
Strautmann has introduced a new Hay Edition auger for its Verti-Mix feed mixer wagons, aimed at operators using rations with larger proportions of hay or other long-fibre materials.
Rural Contractors NZ says proposed changes to land transport rules for agricultural vehicles are a welcome response by the Government to out of date regulations which have seen members hit with huge fines.
Alliance is calling for final applications for its 2027 Graduate Programme, with applications closing on Sunday 25 October.
Decades piloting planes has ensured vet and farmer David Hayes is focused on safety. So, after a serious accident while welding on farm, he is sharing his experience so others can learn from it.
Canterbury milk processor, Synlait Milk has confirmed Leon Fung as its chief executive officer.
OPINION: Making it easier to collect rainwater and use it to grow crops and livestock is a no brainer.
As part of its Election 2026 coverage, Rural News asked political parties how they would help pull the arable sector out of the doldrums. Here's what they said:
