Tractor, harvester IT comes of age
Over the last halfdecade, digital technology has appeared to be the “must-have” for tractor and machinery companies, who believe that bringing IT to tractors and farming will offer its customers huge benefits.
Massey Ferguson's MF 5S Series has scooped a Farm Machine 2023 Award for tractors less than 120hp at the recently held SIMA Show in Paris.
Said to offer best in class visibility and an industry-leading 4m turning radius, the narrow steep-nosed bonnet lends itself to front end loader operations. The range also combines options such as front axle suspension, a high payload and greater linkage capacity to be a serious performer in the paddock and on the road.
The MF 5S Series offers five models from 105hp to 145hp. Models come with the choice of Essential or Efficient specifications, which provide a range of performance enhancing features to suit all types of farms and applications.
All models are powered by the AGCO Power 4.4-litre, four-cylinder engines with straightforward 'All in One' SCR technology. Transmission choice is the well-proven Dyna-4 or Dyna-6 configurations. The tractors are also equipped with the Brake-to-Neutral feature, which disengages drive when the brakes are applied.
Ideally suited for loader operations, a closed-centre high-flow hydraulics offers up to 110 litres/min. This is controlled via a multi-function joystick, while the optional Visio Roof format provides a clear view of the attachment through the whole lifting range.
With Efficient models, a new armrest, as used in the recently launched MF 8S range, houses the Multipad joystick that controls several functions – including forward/ reverse shuttle, linkage and spool valves.
At the rear, a robust three-point linkage, offers lift capacity up to 6,000kg – 14% more than the previous models. Meanwhile, up front and developed for mounting with the new suspended axle, the latest front linkage is designed to integrate with the optional suspended axle to deliver 3,000kg capacity.
Thanks to its impressive 9.5t Gross Vehicle Weight, a 12% increase over previous models, the MF 5S can also safely carry and handle larger loads.
All MF 5S Series tractors can be fully connected with MF Connect telemetry option. This includes options such as a Geofencing function to improve logistics management and security, using alerts smart devices if – and when – machines leave or enter pre-defined areas.
Datatronic 5 also offers a Smart Farming Suite, with functions that include MF Guide automatic steering, MF Section Control and Rate Control. This can handle and manage up to 96 sections, three booms and five products.
Fonterra has appointed a new chief financial officer, seven months after its last CFO’s shock resignation.
A seminar on rural dispute resolution has been organised at Lincoln University, Christchurch this month.
The legacy of Dr Peter Snow continues to inspire as the recipients of the 2023 and 2024 Peter Snow Memorial Awards were announced at the recent National Rural Health Conference.
One of Fonterra’s global customers, Mars is launching an ambitious sustainable dairy plan to work with dairy farmers and cut emissions by 50%.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand chief executive for the past eight years, Sam McIvor is heading for new pastures at Ospri, which runs NZ’s integrated animal disease management and traceability service.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.