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.
MANY TECHNICAL features formerly limited to “top tractor classes” are now found in four models in the Fendt 500 Vario series, a new class in the compact standard tractor market, says AGCO.
Innovations and equipment options give the 500 Vario “unrivalled competitive advantages” in the 125 to 165hp range, including “cutting-edge engine performance and fuel saving SCR technology”.
The new 500 Vario tractors are powered by a 4.04L 4-cylinder-Deutz engine with four valves per cylinder and common rail injection.
For the 500 Vario series, Fendt also uses the fuel-saving SCR technology familiar from the 700, 800 and 900 Vario tractor series.
Since exhaust after-treatment with AdBlue urea solution takes place after the combustion process, and external exhaust gas recirculation is not required, the engine can be optimally tuned. So as well as improving fuel economy, it also increases power and makes handling livelier, Agco says.
The maker’s Vario transmission ML 90 is notable: stepless speed adjustment has lots of potential to save time and money. “With the tractor management system (TMS), the tractor is always working at an economic optimum. Operators only need to enter the desired speed, then the activated TMS controls the engine and transmission – that means efficiency fully automatically. New in the 500 Vario is the automatic maximum output control.
In the cab the windscreen curves up into the roof and provides a full view of a raised front loader. More room and nearly 6m2 of glazing make the cab feel spacious.
All functions are found on the new Varioterminal and the right armrest, which moves along with the driver seat.
Automatic steering, camera function, documentation system and ISOBUS implement control have found their way into this power class. The maker’s automatic steering system is said to allow longer work time in the tractor – day or night.
The 500 Vario offers ideal automated functions for pass-to-pass work, and hydraulics ample for implements designed for this power class.
The right armrest is the central operating element. Even during turning manoeuvres, there is no need to switch between controls in the 500 Vario, because operators can comfortably rest their arm on the right armrest and control the tractor and implement with the multi-function joystick and the Varioterminal.
An average of six percent less overlapping, as well as savings in fuel and operating materials, such as seeds and fertiliser, are possible with VarioGuide. The documentation system enables relevant data to be logged easily and quickly.
As many as five electrohydraulic double-acting valves are found at the rear plus two separate in the front, power beyond and ISOBUS connection. Connections total at least 22, front and rear.
A top speed of 50 km/h at a reduced engine speed enables swift and economical on-road driving. The self-levelling front axle suspension, steering system, shock load stabilising, cab suspension, seat suspension and automatic steering axle lock, ensure the best ride comfort and safety.
www.fendt.com.au
According to the most recent Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey, farmer confidence has inched higher, reaching its second highest reading in the last decade.
From 1 October, new livestock movement restrictions will be introduced in parts of Central Otago dealing with infected possums spreading bovine TB to livestock.
Phoebe Scherer, a technical manager from the Bay of Plenty, has won the 2025 Young Grower of the Year national title.
The Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ) celebrated the best of the best at the 2025 Fencing Industry Awards, providing the opportunity to honour both rising talent and industry stalwarts.
Award-winning boutique cheese company, Cranky Goat Ltd has gone into voluntary liquidation.
As an independent review of the National Pest Management Plan for TB finds the goal of complete eradication by 2055 is still valide, feedback is being sought on how to finish the job.
OPINION: Westland Milk may have won the contract to supply butter to Costco NZ but Open Country Dairy is having…
OPINION: The Gene Technology Bill has divided the farming community with strong arguments on both the pros and cons of…