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Nexat a 270-degree rotating cab allows the unit to be driven manually between jobs and a prime position for monitoring in the paddock.
While popular in horticultural operations for harvesting over the past few decades, many growers have switched from gantry layouts in favour of very large self-propelled machines.
German company Kalverkamp is now looking to give the gantry a new lease of life. It recently took out the only gold medal for innovation offered by the Agritechnica Event.
Featuring autonomous operation, an electrical power source and modular construction – allowing operating widths from 6 to 24 metres – the machine can take care of tasks including cultivating, drilling, spraying and harvesting.
Called Nexat (next generation agricultural technology), a 270-degree rotating cab allows the unit to be driven manually between jobs and a prime position for process monitoring in the paddock.
While hydrogen power is planned for the future, currently the vehicle is fitted with twin 545hp (400kW) diesel engines that power electrical generators. This in turn powers the four rubber tracks, which rotate through 90 degrees for transport.
With the NexCo combine harvester module fitted, the vehicle is said to offer outputs of 130- 200 tonnes/hr, using a 5.8m-long dual axial rotor mounted transversely to the direction of travel, and a cutting width of 14 metres.
A 32 cubic metre grain tank is said to be large enough for most paddocks, with a 600 litre/ second unloading speed taking around one minute to empty at the headland.
Several manufacturers are involved in the development of implements for the system, such as Swedish company Väderstad, alongside German sprayer builder Damman.
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A Foundation for Arable Research initiative which took a closer look at the efficiency of a key piece of machinery for arable farmers - their combine harvesters - has been recognised at the Primary Industry NZ Awards.
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The drawn out separation of global giant AGCO and its Indian partner TAFE seems to be ending.
Imported to New Zealand since 1995, being 25 years with the last distributor, Merlo has become one of the leading players in the telehandler market for agriculture, construction and specialised operations.
In the first of two articles focusing on electrification in New Zealand, Leo Argent talks with Mike Casey, operator of the 100% electric-operated Electric Cherries orchard and founder of advocacy group Rewiring Aotearoa.
A Foundation for Arable Research initiative which took a closer look at the efficiency of a key piece of machinery for arable farmers - their combine harvesters - has been recognised at the Primary Industry NZ Awards.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has reiterated New Zealand’s ‘China And’ policy, adding that it wasn’t about choosing one market over another but creating more options for exporters.
A long running trade dispute between New Zealand and Canada over dairy access has been resolved.
New Zealand Police is urging rural property owners to remain vigilant and ensure their property is secure.
New Zealand and Malaysia have agreed to boost trade for high-quality halal meat products.
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