Electric telehandler for agriculture
French handling specialists Manitou has developed its first all-electric telehandler concept aimed at the agricultural market.
Manitou Australia is launching its Gehl R series radial-lift skid loaders ‘down under’, and they are expected to be popular with farmers.
The line-up is all new, the company says. The models R190, R220 and R260 offer a better operator station with an integrated digital display, improved visibility, pressurised cabs, Tier IV engines and a high-powered hydraulic system.
These machines are rated large-frame and bring “unparalleled performance to the jobsite,” says Manitou.
When equipped with optional counterweights, the rated operating capacities range from 957kg on the R190 to 1260kg on the R260. Lift heights reach up to 3060mm on the R190 and 3124mm on the R220 and R260.
Their emissions compliant Tier IV Yanmar engines have DPF (diesel particulate filter) technology – environmentally sound and needing no fuel after-treatments, such as urea. With maximum torque ratings from 235 Nm on the R190 to 279.3 Nm on the R260, power is ample, says the company.
The R Series skid loaders come with high-powered auxiliary hydraulics that achieve flow rates from 119L/min on the R190 to 32.5L/min on the R220 and R260 with the high-flow configuration.
High breakout forces are great for digging and faster cycle times further enhance productivity.
The cabs have a new side-folding restraint bar and armrests with multiple adjustments. Joystick and hand/foot control towers are fully adjustable and the mechanical or air-ride suspension seat options gives plenty of comfort.
A cab-forward design and lowered rear towers give good visibility to the bucket edge and rear of the machine. The optional pressurised sealed cab enclosure, with sound reduction material and a rear-mounted air filter, is clean and quiet.
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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