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JD's GridCon 2 features a cable reeler extended to 3,000 metres offering a maximum delivery of 8kV/1,000kW.
While there is still a major reliance on diesel engines, global tractor manufacturer John Deere is paying close attention to the electric route.
The GridCon concept, first shown in January 2019 and later that same year at the Agritechnica Event, takes power from an oversized 1,000 metre extension lead. This is capable of delivering 2.5kW/300kW and managed by a reeler system as the tractor moves up and down the paddock.
GridCon 2 takes things a stage further, featuring a cable reeler extended to 3,000 metres and offer a maximum delivery of 8kV/1,000kW. The key difference is the ability to simultaneously power up to five autonomous tractor/implement combinations via an overhead supply line. The “swarm” concept is nothing new to John Deere. However, the rapid evolution from the realms of science fiction to machines in the field, begs one to ask whether this type of technology is ready to be adopted by large scale farmers or contractors.
Likewise, the complexity of dragging power cables around a paddock – in this case 3,000 metres of cable – also begs the question, did JD miss the mark altogether and should it be looking at rapidly evolving technologies targeted at the green evolution, such as hydrogen?
Grape and orchard growers will soon be able to take a closer look at John Deere’s new 5EN specialty narrow tractors, which offer more power and comfort in narrow vineyards or tree rows.
Recently released in Australia and New Zealand by John Deere, a unique new software platform offers near real time profitability monitoring across crops and individual paddocks.
John Deere has released details of its next generation of fixed and variable chamber round balers, offering advanced automation for increased productivity, along with user-friendly features, including new endless belts that ensure reliable net feeding, particularly in sticky conditions, and an optional integral bale weighing system.
Fancy trading your old toy for something new next month?
Whangarei field service technician, Bryce Dickson has cemented his place in John Deere’s history, becoming the first ever person to win an award for the third time at the annual Australian and New Zealand Technician of the Year Awards, announced at a gala dinner in Brisbane last night.
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.
Ravensdown has announced a collaboration with Kiwi icon, Footrot Flats in an effort to bring humour, heart, and connection to the forefront of the farming sector.
