Feed pad with rubber matting hailed as game changer
For Otago farmers Michelle and Rogan Borrie, a newly constructed feed pad on one of their three farms has been a game changer.
Fendt has extended its VarioDrive concept further down the power range with a totally new Vario 600, four-cylinder range.
The four-model lineup offers 149hp to 209hp and “boosting” to a maximum 164hp to 224hp. All the models use a 5.0- litre, Agco Power Core 50 motor, partnered with a TA150 transmission, mirroring the 700 Gen 7 introduced in 2022.
The new series also uses the low engine speed arrangement that Fendt has been introducing in its larger models. Max torque in the largest 620 model is 950Nm between 1200 and 1600rpm. The Finnish built engine uses SCR, DOC and DPF for Stage V, and like the FPT engine in CNH tractors it doesn’t use any EGR.
Maximum speed for the Vario 600 is 50km/h, delivered at only which 1350rpm. Meanwhile, the drive to the front and rear axles is separate, helping to reduce the turning circle to 10.5m.
The front wheels-typically 540/65 R30 can be sped up to effectively pull the tractor around - not dissimilar to Japanese brands such as Kubota and Iseki have used in somewhat smaller models.
While the four-cylinder layout cannot really be described as dainty, its operating weight of 7.7t and a 2.72m wheelbase, still manages to deliver a 5.8 tonne payload. Vario- Grip tyre pressure control also makes its way down the Fendt power line up, with the option of rear tyres up to 650/65 R42.
Hydraulic output is impressive at 152l/min, with availability of a 205l/ min option. Layout sees up to five spools at the rear, two up front and up to three mid-mounts. Rear lift capacity is a respectable 9.8 tonnes.
In the cabin, Fendt has plucked the platform from the current 700 G7.
The Vario 614, 616, 618 and 620 models will be showcased at its official launch at bi-annual Agritechnica Event in just a few weeks, although their availability and delivery are yet to be confirmed in the southern hemisphere.
The Ministry for the Environment (MfE) has found itself in a stoush with NZPork over the controversial National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land (NPS-HPL).
Fonterra says the sale of its global consumer business and its Oceania and Sri Lankan operations could take 18 months to complete.
The lobby group the Methane Science Accord (MSA) says it welcomes a recent government move to seek outside advice on reducing biological methane targets, rather than relying on recommendations made by the Climate Change Commission.
Well-known scientist Jock Allison has passed away.
After a decade of consultation and court battles, Environment Southland has officially adopted a plan to prevent further decline in the region's water quality.
Farmers are throwing down the gauntlet to politicians - hold an independent inquiry into rural bank lending or face tough questions from the farming sector.