JCB unveils new Fastrac 6000 Series tractor
JCB has released details of its new Fastrac 6000 Series, filling the gap between the current 4000 Series (160- 240 horsepower) and the 8000 Series (330+ horsepower).
The new JCB Series III Loadall made its international debut at the recent SIMA show in Paris, winning Machine of the Year 2019.
The company spent £8 million on developing this Loadall, said to be 50% quieter, more spacious, more comfortable and with better visibility.
The new Series III Loadall range scored its win in the handling equipment category; JCB previously won the same award at the 2017 event for its AgriPro Loadall.
The competition honours the most innovative agricultural products, with winners chosen by European journalists who specialise in farm machinery.
The latest Series III Loadall is specifically for agricultural operators. It has an all-new Command Plus cab which is quieter, wider and longer, has an improved driving position and controls easier to locate and use. Its instrument display is larger and more informative than previously.
In other JCB News, the UK company has been granted an injunction by a French court against its rival Manitou. The court has directed the French manufacturer to stop production, sales or hire of any telehandlers with a JCB-patented productivity feature. Manitou was to have ceased using the feature by March 13 and must pay all court costs.
The case centres on JCB’s Longitudinal Load Movement Control (LLNC) system, which uses sensors to monitor weight being carried by the machine’s rear axle.
In operation, the sensors detect that weight reducing below a pre-set threshold, progressively reducing hydraulic function to prevent weight transfer to the front axle and the machine tipping over forwards.
A feature within the unit reduces the risk of false stability indications as the machine is used for re-handling or travelling over rough terrain, helping to improve productivity.
According to ASB, Fonterra's plan to sell it's Anchor and Mainlands brands could inject $4.5 billion in additional spending into the economy.
New Zealand’s trade with the European Union has jumped $2 billion since a free trade deal entered into force in May last year.
The climate of uncertainty and market fragmentation that currently characterises the global economy suggests that many of the European agricultural machinery manufacturers will be looking for new markets.
Dignitaries from all walks of life – the governor general, politicians past and present, Maoridom- including the Maori Queen, church leaders, the primary sector and family and friends packed Our Lady of Kapiti’s Catholic church in Paraparaumu on Thursday October 23 to pay tribute to former prime Minister, Jim Bolger who died last week.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay is encouraging farmers, growers, and foresters not to take unnecessary risks, asking that they heed weather warnings today.
With nearly two million underutilised dairy calves born annually and the beef price outlook strong, New Zealand’s opportunity to build a scalable dairy-beef system is now.

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