Two new Irish machines set for Fieldays debut
Released in Europe in 2024 and having just arrived in time for National Fieldays, Giltrap Agrizone will be exhibiting two new machines from Irish manufacturer Malone Farm Machinery.
Recently released in Europe, with expected delivery yet to be confirmed for New Zealand, the new Valtra A series tractors see a range of new transmission options that will get those looking for a compact workhorse.
Making way for the fifth generation of A series, the outgoing A4 tractors were always popular for livestock operations, resulting in more than half the production supplied with factory-fitted front-end loaders.
This fact has not been missed by the new A5’s designers who have focused on introducing powershift transmission options and an upgraded armrest control system usually seen on the company’s larger hp ranges.
At the heart of the tractor, the A5 series retains the three-cylinder, 3.3 litre AgcoPower engine in the three smallest models, while the four larger tractors in the seven-model range get the 4.4 litre, 4-cylinder engine from the same camp.
Horsepower output remains the same for the 3-cylinders, but the 4.4 litre units each gain 5hp over the outgoing A4 series. Both engine formats meet the latest Stage 5 emission regulations using a combination of DPF and SCR technology, with service intervals pushed out to 600 hours.
Like its predecessor, the A5 is offered in three different wheelbases, with three smallest measuring in at 2250mm, the middle pair is stretched to 2430mm and the two largest models are fitted with a 2500mm chassis.
A basic 12F/12R speed GL transmission is the base unit choice for all models, while a two-step powershift HiTech 2 set up, offering 24F/24R speeds is now available on all the three-cylinder models. Elsewhere the mid-range A105 and A115 get the choice of three gearbox options, with the base 12F/12R GL, a 16F/16R HiTech 4, powershift and a 32F/32R speed creeper set up that can get down to 100m/hour. The HiTech 4 unit is controlled electronically, while all models incorporate a F/R shuttle with an integrated handbrake.
Other notable features include the selectable AutoTraction control system, redesigned engine hood and wheels and the main power isolation switch incorporated into the ignition switch. Options include rear fender PTO control on the HiTech 4 models and the Valtra Connect remote monitoring system.
Australian dairy farmers supplying Fonterra are getting an opening weighted average milk price of A$8.60/kgMS for the new season or around NZ$9.26/kgMS - NZ74c less than New Zealand suppliers, based on the current exchange rate.
Taranaki veterinarian Dr Rob Mills is the new president of New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA).
Input costs can make or break a season for farmers and electricity is one of the largest expenses.
Zespri says global sales for the 2024-25 season topped $5 billion on the back of strong demand and market returns.
Massey University is returning to the Fieldays with a future-focused, solution-driven theme, showcasing research that delivers practical advancements in agricultural efficiency, sustainability and longevity.
Newly appointed National Fieldays chief executive Richard Lindroos says his team is ready, excited and looking forward to delivering the four-day event next month.
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