Kubota to start field testing robotic tractor
Kubota has announced plans to start field testing the autonomous hydrogen powered fuel cell tractor it recently unveiled at Expo 25 in Osaka Japan.
A Kubota RTV-X1140, the highest horsepower RTV in its class, has been tried and tested by Taranaki farmer Kevin (Smiley) Barrett – who also happens to be the father of three well-known All Blacks.
Barrett, an organic dairy farmer, farms in a rolling coastal environment in Taranaki.
“The X1140 performed exceptionally well,” he says. “I tested it out on a few hills, activated the diff-lock control, took my foot off the accelerator and was surprised at how well it held on the hills – no slippage at all.”
Designed around a longer wheelbase and utilising a hydrostatic transmission, the RTV is particularly stable on rolling country. The tractor also offers good accessibility, making it a breeze to get in and out of the vehicle.
“If you’re struggling to get your leg over a bike these days then this little beauty is for you,” Barrett claims.
The four-seater option has proven ideal for taking staff or the grandchildren out onto the farm, with four seatbelts making sure that everyone is secure. While the dual seat arrangement makes engine access easy, another unique feature is the ability to fold the seats up and extend the tray capacity, offering a payload of up to 700kg. Barrett says it has got a very spacious tray with the tipping option.
“This proves ideal for loading up with standards, reels or bales of hay,” he adds.
“I also worked out you can get nine kegs of Guinness on there – if you really want to get serious!”
With the current situation in the European farm machinery market being described as difficult at best, it’s perhaps no surprise that the upcoming AgriSIMA 2026 agricultural machinery exhibition, scheduled for February 2026 at Paris-Nord Villepinte, has been cancelled.
The Meat Industry Association of New Zealand (MIA) has launched the first in-market activation of the refreshed Taste Pure Nature country-of-origin brand with an exclusive pop-up restaurant experience in Shanghai.
Jayna Wadsworth, daughter of the late New Zealand wicketkeeper Ken Wadsworth, has launched an auction of cricket memorabilia to raise funds for I Am Hope's youth mental health work.
As we move into the 2025/26 growing season, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that the third quarter results for the year to date is showing that the stagnated tractor market of the last 18 months is showing signs of recovery.
DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown is urging dairy farmers to participate in the 2026 Levy vote, to be held early next year.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is calling for nominations for director roles in the Eastern North Island and Southern South Island electoral districts.

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