Smart Machines: Oxin gains traction in the US
Marlborough-based agritech company Smart Machines has reached a significant milestone in its mission to revolutionise vineyard management.
Rather than replace the old Generation Six range, it appears the company has created a new segment in the 200- 300hp division, at a time when other manufacturers are focusing on fitting high power, four-cylinder engines in compact frames.
However, Fendt has chosen to stick with a compact frame layout. But it has decided to drop the previously used Deutz engine in favour of an inhouse, 6-cylinder Agco- Power unit of 7.5 litres.
Featuring five models, the 720, 722, 724, 726 and 728 push out constant max outputs of 203, 223, 243, 262 and 283hp respectively. The 728 model also features a Dynamic Performance Mode that offers an extra “power boost” of 20hp, taking the maximum output to 203hp.
This compares to the Generation 6, 700 series that offered a range of power outputs from 144 to 237hp.
For the new series, Fendt has adopted the high torque-low engine speed philosophy. These have a key operating speed range of 700- 1,700rpm, with rated speed achieved at the latter and a key working band of 1,400 to 1,700rpm. Rated to Stage V emission levels, the newly adopted engine removes exhaust gas recirculation, cleaning things up with a combination of DOC, DPF and SCR.
In the case of the 728 model, the Dynamic Performance moniker gives a clue to its operation. This tractor offers an extra 20hp, without reference to operating speed or PTO function. In the case of torque output, the flagship model achieves 1,450Nm at an engine speed of 1,300rpm.
Auto All-Wheel Drive means there is no need for the operator to select 2 or 4-wheel drive when moving from paddock to the road. Rather, drive to the front or rear axles is provided as needed, delivering the full force in normal use. This also reduces the stresses encountered during road transport or moving through turns or curves.
Meanwhile, in the case of the 726 and 728 models, a 60km/h maximum speed can be achieved at 1,450 rpm.
Other features of note include the VarioGrip tyre pressure monitoring and adjustment system. This is said to offer increase in tractive force of up to 8%. There are also up to six different seat configurations. The Stage 4 cabin filtration matches selfpropelled sprayers and front and rear cameras.
The new series is said to offer more flexibility than the larger 800 range that offers 226-287hp. The updated 7 Series also offers an impressive power to weight ratio at 30.5 kg/hp in the case of the 728 model, while allowing a maximum operating weight of 15 tonnes for all models.
