Kubota joins forces with Hurricanes
Japanese agricultural equipment maker Kubota will have its stamp on the home jersey for the Hurricanes.
Star of the event was the much anticipated M7-1 series tractor, designed to take Kubota into a much broader arena including the region's pastoral and cropping farmers.
Three models are offered: 130, 150 and 170hp, carrying the numerals M7131, M7151 and M7171 respectively, in a choice of standard, premium or premium KVT specification. The tractors use the Kubota 4-cyl turbocharged, intercooled V6108 engine with 6.1L capacity. Fuel injection is electronically controlled, using a high pressure common rail layout for instantaneous injection at the precise moment, creating optimal combustion and the associated benefits of better efficiency, good consumption and reduced engine noise. The addition of selective catalytic reduction (SCR), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) ensures the tractor exceeds Tier 4 emission regulations.
Moving down the drive-line, the tractors will feature a 24 x 24 speed semi-powershift transmission or the Kubota Variable Transmission (KVT) that provides a virtually infinite number of forward and reverse speeds, allowing operators to work at the optimal speed for a wide variety of jobs. Highly responsive and reliable, the KVT transmission has dynamic braking (engine-assisted deceleration) to help maintain control and constant travelling speed on downward slopes.
At the rear end, Kubota's 4-speed live-independent pto, ranging from 102 to 142hp, can be engaged and disengaged without stopping the tractor, using a single control switch with automatic modulation for smooth engagement. The M7 also offers optional front pto for even greater versatility and productivity.
Rear lift capacity is an impressive 9000kg, and hydraulic flow is either 80L/min open centre or 110L/min closed centre load sensing, dependant on model; loader duties are taken care of by the LM2605 mechanical self-levelling front loader. The LM2605 features a Kubota-first Z-Bar self-levelling linkage to ensure a clear view over the top of the loader boom, and a standard third function valve allows the use of hydraulically controlled attachments, controlled by a single switch conveniently located on the joystick grip.
The M7-1 series boasts a wide four-post cab with excellent visibility, designed to keep operators comfortable and working efficiently during long days. The cab is available with a choice of mechanical or air ride suspension systems, taking the bumps out of the ride.
The all-in-one terminal on the premium and premium KVT models displays functions on a single large touch screen, and an optional, built-in auto-guidance system gives the machine the ability to track its own movements, displaying maps and information on the terminal so operators are fully aware and in control of the job at hand. ISOBUS compatibility allows plug and play of suitably equipped implements through the single screen.
A choice of options such as front suspension, front pto and, for the first time, bar axle will ensure the tractor is attractive across a broad spectrum, as confirmed by the Kubota NZ manager, for importer CB Norwood Distributors.
"Kubota is always looking forward, increasing our competitive know-how and expanding our product offerings to meet the demands of our current and prospective customer base.
"With the M7-1 series, we are bringing 40 years of engineering prowess to the field with a built from the ground up machine, designed with intuitive technology that makes precision farming possible for Kubota customers."
