Agri News | Issue 28 | February 2014

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Issue 28 | February 2014

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MACHINERY

CLAAS celebrate 10 years of tractor expansion

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LAAS celebrate 10 years of tractor expansion CLAAS UK is celebrating 10 years of CLAAS tractors in 2014, recognising the sale of the first CLAAS tractor in the UK in 2004, following the formation of the CLAAS Tractor division the previous year.

The 10 years since CLAAS bought a majority share in Renault Agriculture have been ones of considerable change. From Renault’s fairly small market share centred on its French home market, CLAAS has grown to become one of Europe’s major tractor manufacturers and a leader in tractor development.

In the UK, against a general reduction in overall tractor sales over the past 10 years, CLAAS has consistently bucked the trend, with a consistent increase in sales and market share.

Central to the success of CLAAS Tractor over the last 10 years has been the commitment to an intensive investment programme in both the production facilities and model ranges that has totalled over 500 million Euros to date. At the Le Mans factory this has included the development of a completely new cab assembly line and the installation of one of the most advanced, environmentally friendly paint application systems in Europe.

In terms of tractor product development, the last 10 years have seen the complete range replaced nearly two-anda-half times, which is more than any other manufacturer.

The number of models offered has grown from five ranges with power

outputs from 75-250hp to currently nine ranges with power outputs from 72hp up to 525hp, and within this CLAAS offers one of the largest ranges of model variants of any manufacturer on the UK market.

Over 100,000 tractors have now been manufactured and the rise in sales,

helped by the best selling ARION range, is evident in the fact that CLAAS has manufactured 25,000 tractors in the last two years alone.

In 10 years, European sales have increased by 30% and CLAAS are well on track to achieve a sales target of 25,000 tractor sales a year by 2018.

As with other leading products in the CLAAS product range, machine and operator efficiency are key drivers in the company’s tractor product development.

CLAAS has rapidly become a leader in the development of innovative but practical tractor technology, designed to provide operators with increased outputs and lower running cost.

The success of this policy is more than evident in the fact that in just the last year,

CLAAS has: Been awarded the prestigious European ‘Tractor of the Year’ award for the AXION 850 Launched the 410hp AXION 950, which is the most powerful conventional tractor on the market and has returned the highest ever drawbar power figure recorded in DLG Powermix tests, recording an average fuel consumption of just 249 g/kWh or 3.64l/ha, (which is 15.4% below the average for this class of tractor), dropping to 222g/kWh at maximum output Developed the new ground-breaking EQ200 CVT transmission for the ARION CMATIC range, which provides unprecedented efficiency and economy Introduced the new 215-264hp AXION 800 range, which are the first tractors to meet the highest TIER4 Final emissions regulations However, it’s not just in new tractor sales where CLAAS has revolutionised the market. As the CLAAS share of the UK market continues to grow, CLAAS UK has been the first to provide a manufacturer backed quality assurance scheme for used tractors – CLAAS APPROVED USED & FIELD READY. By thoroughly assessing each used tractor prior to sale, this sets a benchmark for used tractors and ensures that buyers can have confidence when investing in a used CLAAS tractor.

Young Irishman wins Coveted Engineering Scholarship

T

he CLAAS Group has chosen Irishman David Thornton as its next Agricultural Engineering Scholar from Harper Adams University.

David, 20, from Maganey, County Kildare, Ireland is currently in the second year of an honours degree in agricultural engineering.

As this year’s winner of the coveted CLAAS Scholarship, David, who grew up on the family farm, will have his fees for the second and fourth years of his studies covered, and in year three he will complete a one-year sandwich placement with CLAAS, spending time in England and Germany.

In selecting David as its latest Scholar, CLAAS took into consideration not only his academic background, but also his character, skills and enthusiasm for agricultural engineering. David said: “I’m abso-

2 | AGRINEWS | Issue 28 | February 2014

lutely thrilled – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

I have worked with CLAAS machinery over the years and have a genuine interest in the machinery they produce, especially combine harvesters, coming from an arable farm. “I am excited about spending a year working for CLAAS. I expect to be working for them in the UK next summer, and then going out to Germany in October. It’s going to be great to see how such a prestigious company operates, and living abroad for the best part of the year will be some experience – although I am already living abroad, having come from Ireland to study in England!”

Students Thomas Sutton and Michael Brown were close runners-up for the award, after the candidates gave presentations to and were interviewed by a judging panel comprising CLAAS UK Head of Human Resources Jane Broomhall; Divisional Manager - After Sales Alastair Tulloch and Harper Adams Senior Lecturer and Placement Manager Richard

Langley.

David, who attended Coláiste Lorcáin Post-Primary School, in Castledermot, before starting at Harper Adams, said he wanted to thank the panel for giving him such an amazing opportunity, and paid tribute to runners-up Thomas and Michael who were “tough competition”.

Launched in 2005 at the personal instigation of Helmut Claas, the CLAAS Scholarship is open to one second year student per year who is studying on either the MEng/BEng (Hons) or BSc (Hons) Agricultural Engineering, or the BSc (Hons) Agricultural Engineering Marketing and Management courses at Harper Adams

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e Farmer ’s

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C J Saunders (South West Handling)

Craggs Of Conder Green

Lister Wilder Group

Cooks Midlands

Keith Davies Agricultural

P and D Engineering (Bredon) Ltd

Whiddon Down Okehampton Devon, EX20 2QU Tel:01647 231 251 www.cjsaunders.co.uk

Horsepool Grange Elliotts Lane Stanton Under Bardon Leicestershire, LE67 9TW Tel: 1530 249191 4 | AGRINEWS | Issue 28 | February 2014 ww www.cooksmidlands.co.uk

Thurnham Mill Buildings Conder Green Lancaster, LA2 0B Tel: 01524 751405 www.craggsofcondergreen.co.uk

Hem Manor Farm The Hem Shifnal Shropshire, TF11 9PT Tel: 01952 463840 ww www.keithdaviesagricultural.co.uk

Tel: 01491 838388 www.listerwilder.co.uk

Fleet Lane Bredon, Tewkesbury Gloucestershire, GL20 7EF Tel: 01684 772912 www.panddengineering.com

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Your local Valtra dealers Craggs of Conder Green Thurnham Mill Buildings, Conder Green, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA2 0BD Tel: 01524 751405 Fax: 01524 752378 Email: sales@craggsofcondergreen.co.uk Web: craggsofcondergreen.co.uk

M J Pringle Radcliffe Garage, Main Road, Radcliffe, Amble, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE65 0JB Tel: 01665 711702 Email: radcliffegarage@btconnect.com Web: mjpringle.co.uk

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MACHINERY

One million Amazone fertiliser spreaders sold

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ne million fertiliser spreaders sold allows Amazonen-Werke, in 2013, to look back on what is a major success story. This story began almost 100 years ago, in a time, when mineral fertiliser was still spread manually on most farms.

So in 1915, the founder of Amazone, Heinrich Dreyer, invented a new worm auger spreader and applied for a patent on it.

Compared with either the slit or chain fertiliser spreaders, which were already in use at that time, this worm auger spreader, called by the model name “Michel”, proved to be easier to pull and more precise.

Offered in different widths from 1.5 to 4 m, it could, in the field, evenly distribute all the usual fertilisers, irrespective of whether dry or wet.

In addition, due to relatively low production costs, it was also affordable for smaller farms and thus quickly conquered wider agriculture.

Sales developed so successfully that, in total, more than 250,000 worm auger spreaders of the most versatile versions were sold.

Even during the 1960’s, more than 10,000 units left the assembly line. However, the demand slowly receded and then, in 1986, production was stopped completely. But, in the meantime, the ZA twin disc spreader, developed by Prof. h.c.

(SAA Samara) RAAS Dr. Dr. h.c.

Heinz Dreyer, had replaced the worm auger spreader as its successor.

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The ZA developed into an even larger success story that again made AMAZONE unrivalled for many years in the sector of fertiliser spreaders. Since 1958, Amazone has sold far more than 700,000 ZA fertiliser spreaders.

The successful main principles of the ZA fertiliser spreaders included the spreading discs being driven in opposing directions, allowing, a mirrored, evenly precise spread pattern to both the left and right hand side of the direction of travel.

On the other hand, the consistent, adjustable PTO shaft speed also ensured a constant speed of the spreading discs. So the fertiliser spreader was quickly and easily adjusted for different types of fertiliser and working widths. These basic principles were so successful that they are still present today on most spreaders.

Many other AMAZONE innovations followed and

have still further promoted the ZA success story, such as, for example, the swivel blade technology for late

top dressing.

Other milestones were also the exchangeable disc system for still wider and variable working widths (currently up to 54 m) and the development of boundary and side spreading systems.

Highly successful models, and trendsetting at their time, were, above all, the: ZA-F, ZA-U and ZA-M series. Whereas, however, in the early years of the ZA, it was just the sophisticated mechanics that created the success, later on it was the hydraulic functionality and the electronics that were to promote still further the ZA spreader.

With hopper sizes of up to 4,200 litres and operational speeds of about 20 km/h, these big output models from the new ZA-TS spreader range today manage hourly work rates of up to 50 ha.

Additionally, with their weigh-cell technology, disc integrated AutoTS boundary spreading system, GPS-Switch and their stateof-the-art ISOBUS terminals; they simultaneously fulfil the highest demands for precision as well.

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MACHINERY

Amazone introduces the new Cayron 200 plough

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ith the in-house development of a plough, AMAZONE proves its strength of innovation as well as continuing a long-standing history of plough production at the company Rud. Sack and BBG Leipzig.

In this way AMAZONE intends to expand its competence in soil cultivation and will be a strong partner for both dealers and also farmers alike in the area of inversion soil tillage.

MAZONE will enter the inversion soil tillage market with a medium sized plough.

Initially the Cayron 200 mounted reversible plough will be available in 5 and 6 furrows and suitable for tractors of up to 240 HP On the Cayron 200, the furrow width is adjustable in three steps – 40 cm, 45 cm and 50 cm. The Cayron 200 V is equipped, as standard, with hydraulic furrow width adjustment. The furrow width is infinitely variably adjustable from 30 to 55 cm offering the flexibly needed for different working conditions. On the Cayron 200 V the hydraulic adjustment of the front furrow width comes as standard as well.

The Cayron 200 and the Cayron 200 V are equipped with a double-action shear bolt protection system.

The headstock is equipped with a onepiece sprung cross shaft which provides a very good damping function and so clearly reduces the strain on the lift linkage of the tractor. This is enabled by two pivoting bearings located on the right and left hand side of the cross shaft which safely absorb any shocks.

The turnover mechanism is designed

around a 130 mm diameter hollow shaft equipped with two equally large, high-quality, robust taper roller bearings. These are sealed against dirt ingress and can be lubricated to ensure a high longevity. Thanks to the hollow shaft, the hydraulic hoses can be neatly routed through the tube, ensuring a damagefree turn over procedure.

The body to body clearance of 100 cm, in combination with a beam height of 83 cm and the smooth surface of the overdimensioned main beam, guarantees maximum passage.

The over dimensioned bearings of the linkage system are equipped with especially high-quality components and the attachment of the plough bodies onto the beam is carried out without any movement due to the exclusive formed parts.

Simple plough adjustment with the highest comfort During the development, special attention was paid to the precise and comfortable adjustment of the plough. The Cayron 200 V shows this with a peculiarity in the setting centre. When changing the working width, the front furrow width is automatically matched. This is enabled via the communication of the furrow width ram with the front furrow width adjustment ram. The matched hydraulic system of the plough avoids the need for the driver to constantly re-adjust the implement.

The new AMAZONE Cayron plough will be introduced at Agritechnica 2013 with a plough body that has been 100 % developed

by AMAZONE. One of the characteristics of the C-Blade generation body, seen here, for example, with the U 40 universal mouldboard, is the front shin which has been substantial-

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ly enlarged. With increasing ploughing speeds, the wear point is shifted towards the mouldboard and this new shin design in front of the mouldboard entirely covers the wear area reducing the running costs.

In addition, one other detail achieves a huge gain. The wing is designed in such a way that the point covers the wing. The welded seam is located safely under the point, thus hampering objects, such as, for example, baler twine from becoming trapped in the welded seams between the wing and point.

Down to the last detail During the turning procedure for the Cayron 200 V, initially the plough frame is swivelled out to achieve sufficient ground clearance under all conditions. The position of the plough body to the frame remains unchanged. There is no movement in the individual body bearings but just in the strong vertical bearings of the linkage system.

One other technical peculiarity is the over-dimensioned, 13.0/55-16 cm combined support and transport wheel. Attached to the side of the plough, it enables fields to be ploughed out right up to the border. The thought-through design allows

the very comfortable conversion from field to the road transport position. Just one pin is relocated and safe road travel is ensured.

AGRINEWS | Issue 28 | February 2014 | 7

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YOUR LOCAL MASSEY FERGUSON DEALERS Highwood Ltd

Keith Davies Agricultural

Millers Close, The Grove Trading Estate, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1HW tel: 01305 266058 | fax: 01305 263155

Hem Manor Farm, The Hem, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 9PT tel/fax: 01952 463840 email: sales@keithdaviesagricultural.co.uk web: www.keithdaviesagricultural.co.uk

Highwood Ltd Warrior Avenue, Houndstone Business Park, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8XQ tel: 01935 478877 | fax: 01935 478879 email: sales@highwood-ag.co.uk | web: www.highwood-ag.co.uk

is a worldwide brand of AGCO.

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Yorkshire Handlers Ltd, Unit 4/5. Fryers Close Murton Lane, Murton, York, Y019 5UY Tel: +44 (0)1904 489 988 www.yorkshirehandlers.co.uk AGRINEWS | Issue 28 | February 2014 | 9 sales@yorkshirehandlers.co.uk

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MACHINERY

Interest-free finance for four-passenger Gator

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special interest-free finance programme is now available to anyone ordering a new John Deere XUV 855D S4 Gator 4x4 utility vehicle and any John Deere Gator attachments.

The scheme, which runs until further notice, is based on 60 per cent of the recommended retail price, with purchasers able to make 1 + 2 annual payments at zero per cent interest.

The new XUV 855D S4 Gator is available in olive & black livery, and can be ordered with a variety of factory and deal-

er installed options and attachments. The proven 22hp three-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engine delivers a top speed of 32mph, and power steering is standard.

The S4 combines versatile offroad performance, work capability and comfort for up to four passengers. To allow for extra passengers or cargo space, an easily convertible rear bench folds down to provide a flat surface for extra storage.

A spacious under-seat storage compartment is also included.

Cargo

box, towing and payload capacities are 454kg, 680kg and 635kg respectively, and the XUV 855D S4 Gator also features true on-demand four-wheel drive and fully independent suspension. The vehicle’s base list price starts at £14,593 plus VAT in the UK (€16,773 plus VAT in Ireland).

Precision Farming Event 2014

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iscover the latest technology at the 2014 Precision Farming Event Wednesday 5th March 09.00 hrs to 16.00 hrs at the Peterborough Arena (East of England Showground) Aimed at farmers, contractors and agronomists the annual Precision Farming Event will showcase the latest equipment and techniques from the UK’s leading precision farming companies. Visitors will be able to see the latest systems first hand and compare equipment from all the major UK technology suppliers.

As well as a full technical trade exhibition, the event will also run a comprehensive seminar programme and workshop offering valuable information on a range of topics from industry-leading experts.

The seminars will provide visitors handson examples of how equipment can be employed to improve accuracy, cut costs and boost margins.

The HGCA workshop will be led Dr Daniel Kindred of ADAS who will present

the findings from the ‘Auto-N’ project. The projects aim is at developing commercially-viable systems for automated, fine-scale adjustment of fertiliser N applications to crops. After Dr Kindred’s presentation there will be an open discussion to provide opinion on the findings and next steps.

Precision farming specialist and event partner SOYL speaker will be agron-

omist Stuart Campbell presenting ‘Linking precision farming to agronomy’ as its seminar theme. Providing insight on the practical solutions and benefits of precision farming. Alongside this there will be a presentation on precision nutrient management given by agronomist Ian Matts.

The event will be registered for both NRoSO and BASIS points.

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MACHINERY

Protech machinery drives forward

P

rotech Machinery are a British owned company based in Gloucestershire and manufacture a leading range of post drivers to suit all requirements. It is a privately owned company, Directed by Steve Craddock and Andy Hooper, both of whom have a wealth of agricultural design, engineering and farming knowledge.

The company has rapidly grown since it was formed in 2003. Success has been fuelled by our dynamic approach, product excellence led by customer feedback and wealth of manufacturing experience and knowledge.

We recognised that many of today’s farmers, small holders and contractors have a requirement for a reliable and durable, quality post driver at an affordable price, at Protech Machinery

we have the most extensive range of Post Drivers you will find.

We pride ourselves on using only the best British materials to ensure only the finest machines are produced and are renowned for being the leaders in innovation. As the machines are designed and built in house, we have an excellent ability to make bespoke machines and tailor machines exactly to the customer’s requirements.

The company success has been recognised throughout for it’s excellent quality and value for money. This was demonstrated when Protech Machinery picked up 1st prize at LAMMA show for ‘Best New Product/Innovation’ for the P300 Contractor model.

McHale recognised world wide

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cHale is now recognised as a worldwide leader in the production and development of Integrated Baler Wrappers, its flagship product is the McHale Fusion 3.

New Feature on the Fusion 3 over the earlier Fusion 2 include: - New Machine Guards - giving better access and a more modern look - New Platform and Hand Rails - for easier access to net system - Door Lock Tap located outside the panels on the main platform for operator convenience - Improved Net Storage - on main platform

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- Heavy Duty Watershield pto - with star tubing and heavy duty crosses - 5 Tine bar pick up - giving 25% better ground cleaning and crop transfer - Knife Pressure Display on control box with audible alarm - Knife Position Sensor - to ensure the best chop quality - Double Row Rotor Bearing - reducing service intervals - Tubular Chassis Design - to minimise crop build up - Additional Film Roll Holders - giving more film storage - LED Lights The McHale Fusion 3 is fully automatic and one user-friendly control console in the tractor cab controls the baling and wrapping process.

The McHale Fusion 3 Integrated Baler Wrapper is a robust machine, which is simply not a wrapper coupled onto a

baler; it has been specifically designed as a high output Integrated Baler Wrapper. The Fusion 3 Integrated Baler Wrapper is also unique in that it has a patented bale transfer. This results in keeping the Fusion 3 short and improving the machine\’s performance and output over a days work. Producing 50-60 wrapped bales an hour the single pass patented McHale bale transfer, increases productivity and reduces operation costs, while increasing profits.

Contractors and Farmers all over the world use the Fusion 3 integrated baler wrapper during their silage season in the production of round baled silage. The McHale Fusion 3 integrated baler wrapper has gained a reputation for the production of high density bales and as a result of its highly accurate vertical wrapping ring, the Fusion 3 produces very good quality silage fodder.

McHale Fusion 3 integrated baler wrappers can be seen working during the Spring and Summer months in both hemispheres, the main crops baled are grass and lucerne or alfalfa however more progressive contractors and farmers are also baling other crops.

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MACHINERY - PLANT From Man…To Machine

D

esigned around the operator the Bobcat TL470 telescopic loader excels

in the most demanding construction or agricultural applications.

This versatile machine incorporates all the benefits of our long experience and dedication to constant improvement. It combines tried and tested principles with innovative design, state-of-the-art technologies and a commitment to meeting the ever-growing demands of your working day.

The Bobcat TL470 delivers all the power needed in a compact, strong and agile machine, developed with the operator right at the centre of the design.

NOW AVAILABLE WITH STAGE IIIB In order to provide the best solution in terms of technology and customer benefits we are launching Stage IIIB using leading EGR technology without the need for a DPF® system.

This means our Stage IIIB system provides the best leading technology for meeting regulations while minimizing the associated maintenance and operating costs.

Optimum Power & Productivity The new range of Bobcat TL telescopic loaders ensures operators have the best possible performance in terms of engine power and hydraulic pump

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capacities. In addition, innovative features and options enable maximum productivity.

• High performance engine • 74.5 kW (100 HP), 4 cylinders • 100 l/min gear pump Superior Visibility & Comfort A spacious work environment is made possible through the design of a patented asymmetric cab structure. The concept utilises a five-pillar cab, leaving the right rear corner free from blocking structures while still offering maximum protection as well as ROPS/FOPS. The patented cab design, in combination with the high resistance full-glass enclosure, offers superb 360°

visibility.

Top Quality & Reliability Stringent requirements were put on the design of the mainframe for the new TL range. The result is a very robust machine capable of working in any application.

The fully integrated boom head offers a complete solution for demanding loading and other high stress applications.

Coupled with a tool carrier that is specifically designed to reduce stress around the pickup points, the boom structure on the TL range is designed for a long service life.

Reduced Cost of Ownership The parallel side-mounted engine provides easy and safe access to the main engine maintenance points, allowing maintenance and service time to be kept to a minimum, ensuring maximum uptime for the machine and reduced costs for the customer.

To accommodate easy and fast maintenance, the TL470 have access holes strategically placed on the mainframe.

These covers can quickly be removed for easy access to service points.

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ATV’s & UTV’s

Polaris launches new flagship ATV and limited period 0% offer

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olaris launches new flagship ATV The legendary Polaris Sportsman 500 has been the flagship of the Sportsman line since 1996.

Now Polaris has taken what is the best selling 4x4 ATV of all time and, they say, made it better with the launch of the Sportsman 570.

The addition of Electronic Fuel Injection takes the Sportsman to a new level with twenty percent more power, while offering more comfort and convenient features yet still keeping to keen pricing in its class.

Polaris will offer two models, the Sportsman 570 Forest, which comes with a winch, mirrors and lights and the 570 EPS with power steering. At the heart of the Sportsman 570 models is the new liquid-cooled Pro-Star™ 570 engine delivering smooth, efficient power in abundance for work and recreation. Originally launched on the RZR 570, the engine features dual overhead cams and 4 valves, together with the automotive style electronic fuel injection. The engine also lives up to the Sportsman’s well-earned reputation as a workhorse by offering 1,225 lb/555 kg of towing capacity to tow trailers loaded with material and equipment.

With the new engine now transversely mounted, the ergonomics have also been greatly improved for added comfort. The front of the seat and side panels have been narrowed by over three inches (8.26cm) and the floorboards have deeper heel pockets to allow riders to move their feet back an additional 2” (5.08cm). The width between the rider’s feet has been reduced by 1” (2.54cm) with the result that mounting and dismounting the ATV is much easier, with improved mobility while riding.

The new body style of the Sportsman 570 units has an updated front rack and industry-exclusive rear rack, the latter featuring durable exposed tube steel construction and Lock & Ride® technology. At the front, the rack offers a 6.5 gallon/24.6 litre capacity storage. A new alternator provides increased electrical output, with 40% more power for driving accessories such as winches and lights.

For added efficiency the range of the

24 | AGRINEWS | Issue 28 | February 2014

Sportsman 570 has increased by 11% due to the larger fuel tank.

The convenience features mentioned include an ISO-mounted engine for reduced engine vibration and a smooth start-up. The wet sump configuration makes oil changes and overall main-

tenance much simpler.

The Sportsman traditional legendary ride features independent rear suspension with 9.5” (24.1cm) of travel to minimise body roll and keep the ride smooth. There’s a full 11.25” (28.6cm) of ground clearance and on-demand, true all-wheel drive that keeps you moving, automatically engaging all four wheels when you need more forward traction and reverting back to 2WD when you don’t. The Sportsman 570 joins the ranks of the other best-selling models in the Sportsman range, bringing a new level of power and sophistication to ATV riding.

Polaris is offering a limited period 0% finance offer on all new Polaris utility ATVs and UTVs. The world leader and European No.1 in ATV and Side x Side utility vehicles, Polaris has the widest choice of proven All-Terrain options and accessories.

Business users can arrange interest-free finance on all new Polaris ATVs and Rangers through Polaris finance partners Rural Finance. The scheme offers payments over 24 months at 0% up to a maximum 80% of the Recommended Retail Price and can include up to £1,000.00 of accessories, excluding VAT, on genuine Polaris accessories. Polaris recommends contacting your nearest Polaris dealer as soon as possible for full details and any special deals available. The Ranger Side x Side utility vehicles with the Midsize, Full-Size and CREW offer versatility and muscle, in petrol, diesel, electric 4x4 and Brutus versions with PTO. The legendary Sportsman quads promise the hardest working, smoothest rid-

ing, most powerful and rugged ATVs for all types of work, with Value, Premium and 2-up models available. A ProSteel™ Cab for the Ranger, Polaris Winch and Lock and Ride accessories complement the hallmark Polaris features of on-demand true All-Wheel Drive and smooth ride. The availability of the 0% finance is subject to status and terms and conditions.

ATV specialist Polaris and the NFU have renewed their partnership for 2014 with a special deal for NFU members, saving up to £620 on most Polaris Sportsman and Ranger models.

“ATVs are an important piece of farm machinery and assist many farmers in completing their daily activities,” says Ben Coates, NFU Affinities and Services Manager, “therefore, following negotiations with Polaris, I am pleased to announce that NFU members will continue to get a 5% discount on Polaris ATV and Ranger models for a further 12 months. Polaris is one of the NFU’s most used affinities and I look forward to working with Polaris to continue raising awareness of the offer amongst NFU members.”

All members need to do is talk to their Polaris dealer or visit the Polaris website for more details. To claim the discount a unique Polaris 5% off voucher will be sent in the post. This is then presented at the Polaris dealership along with their NFU Membership Card and ID. The 5% is in addition to any discount negotiated with the Polaris dealer and will be incorporated into the vehicle price at the time of purchase “We’re delighted to be able to continue the relationship for another twelve months,” says Polaris’ Country Manager, Phil Everett, “in the years we have done this promotion the take up with NFU members has been very high.”

For details of Polaris ATVs, Ranger vehicles, dealer location and the NFU 5% discount contact. Polaris Britain 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com

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MOTORS

TOYOTA RAV4: EVEN BETTER FOR 2014

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opular 2.0 D-4D engine now available with all-wheel drive Higher specification for Icon and Invincible grades New options, including Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert Debut in range for improved Toyota Touch 2 touchscreen multimedia system, and optional Toyota Touch 2 with Go incorporating improved navigation functions On sale now, with lower entry price – 2.0 D-4D 2WD Active model reduced by £400 It’s 20 years since Toyota RAV4 created a whole new motoring market with the launch of RAV4, the original compact recreational SUV. While other manufacturers have been keen to follow Toyota’s lead, RAV4 continues to develop and deliver performance, specification and choice that keep pace with changing customer demand.

That’s the inspiration for the 2014 RAV4 which hits the road this week, building on the model’s inherent strengths with a new powertrain and even higher equipment specifications.

New 2.0 D-4D with all-wheel drive Customers choosing Toyota’s efficient 2.0-litre D-4D diesel engine for their RAV4 have, until now, only had the option of two-wheel drive. For 2014 this popular unit has been made available with all-wheel drive, increasing access to 4×4 motoring with the kind of low emissions and strong fuel economy that help keep running costs down.

The new RAV4 2.0 D-4D AWD is available in Icon and Invincible grades.

The 122bhp (91kW) engine generates 310Nm for the kind of flexible driving performance that makes the car as easy to manage around town or out on the open road. Coupled to a six-speed manual transmission it returns official combined cycle figures of 137g/km (Band E for Vehicle Excise Duty) and 53.3mpg.

Toyota Touch 2 All versions of RAV4 bar the entry level Active model are equipped as standard with the Toyota Touch 2, the latest evolution of Toyota’s touchscreen-operated multimedia system.

It comes with a new high-resolution screen that uses four times as many pixels as the original system, for bright, sharp images.

The package includes Bluetooth for

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hands-free phone calls and sending and receipt of text messages; a rear-view camera; vehicle information, including trip data, climate control profile; and management of settings for door locking and lighting.

It also enables simple connection of iPods and MP3 players via USB or Bluetooth, and, where available, will display album, artist and track information. Audio system options, such as the radio and CD player, can also be controlled using the screen.

Toyota Touch 2 with Go Toyota Touch 2 with Go, an option on Icon and Invincible models, adds a wealth of extra functions and advanced connectivity, all controlled simply and clearly using the same touchscreen system.

The leading feature is the full map navigation, with a new screen design that provides clear display of signposts, junctions and lane guidance. A new intuitive detour function uses real-time traffic information to warn of congestion ahead, calculate the likely delay and suggest a suitable alternative route.

The system also provides speed limit indications and safety camera warnings, and in the event of an emergency will give direct access to the emergency services or AA breakdown assistance, automatically providing exact vehicle location details on the display screen.

The improved package further provides connection to a range of features, including Toyota real-time HD traffic data from TomTom. Toyota’s system is the first and currently the only one of its kind to feature Google Street View™ and Panoramio™, providing on-screen imagery of the vehicle’s location or a chosen location to help pinpoint and recognise destinations; and a range of other multimedia applications such as social media channels, parking information and filling station locations.

A range of applications are available free for 12 months with Toyota Touch 2 with Go, easily obtained following a quick registration process via Toyota’s customer web portal.

New equipment features Both Icon and Invincible versions of the 2014 RAV4 benefit from a few extra equipment and styling features.

Icon models adopt keyless entry and easy push-button start as standard, together with new two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels – fitted to the two-wheel as well

as all-wheel drive cars. This builds on an equipment list that also includes dual-zone climate control automatic headlights and wipers, cruise control, DAB digital tuner, heated retractable door mirrors and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

Where Invincible grade models are concerned, customers can now choose between black or a new beige leather seat upholstery. All round protection has been made standard, thanks to front parking sensors being provided in addition to those at the rear.

Toyota has also made the 10-spoke 18inch alloy wheel design standard for the 2WD model.

Established features of the Invincible grade include heated front seats, power slide and lumbar adjustment for the driver’s seat and roof rails.

As a result of the new, larger wheels, the CO2 figure for the 2.0-litre D-4D twowheel drive models increases fractionally, but with no impact on the VED rating.

All RAV4 models are equipped as standard with a space saver spare wheel.

The palette of nine exterior paint finishes includes a new metallic finish for 2014, Mahogany.

Options A wealth of options is available for RAV4 owners who want to add something extra to their vehicle. New features for 2014 include a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert. This uses a radar system to detect vehicles moving alongside in the driver’s blind spot, or approaching from either side when reversing, for example out of a car parking space. When the system detects such a hazard, a warning light flashes in the appropriate door mirror.

Icon and Invincible models can be upgraded with a Style Pack (front guard and underguard, side and rear chrome trim and scuff plates); a Protection Pack (front and rear parking sensors, rear bumper protection plate) is additionally available for Icon grade. Extra in-car entertainment choices include powered docks for holding tablets and DVD players and a sunroof can also be specified (Icon and Invincible).

RAV4 prices, VED and insurance The 2014 RAV4 is on sale now, with first customer deliveries this week. Toyota has made the range even more accessible by reducing the entry price point by £400, offering the 2.0-litre D-4D 2WD Active model for £22,195 on-the-road.

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MOTORS

Mount Your Steed!

Y

By Jonathan Crouch

ou may not have heard of Great Wall before, but there are no prizes for guessing which country it hails from. This Chinese manufacturer’s first UK import is the huge Steed pickup, now offered with a long six year warranty. Jonathan Crouch tries it Ten Second Review The Great Wall Steed pick-up gets all the basics absolutely spot on. It’s big, tough, features switchable two/four-wheel drive, has a long after-sales guarantee and comes to market at a price that reads like a misprint. In a good way.

Background The what? That was the most frequent response most of my colleagues gave me when I mentioned the Great Wall Steed to them. Most didn’t even realise it was a vehicle I was talking about, but brace yourself, because this is just the vanguard of what will undoubtedly be a vast Chinese product offensive to hit our shores. What’s more, in a rapidly maturing domestic industry, the products are being fast-tracked through an accelerated development. We’re living in exciting times.

It might come as a bit of a surprise to learn that the first vehicle with which Great Wall attempts to put a breach in ours is a pick-up truck. Granted, like the Great Wall, the Steed is something that may well be visible from space with the naked eye, but it’s a very low key way to establish the brand. It’s a brand that’s no newcomer, having been going for 35 years. Products like the Wingle, the CoolBear, the Cowry and the Sailor may have passed us by but the Steed looks set to make a bigger impression. Especially now it’s being offered with a six year / 125,000 mile warranty and even more towing capacity.

Driving Experience The fact that a vehicle the size of some European principalities is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine would at first appear cause for concern but the powerplant in question is a surprisingly beefy turbodiesel, capable of generating 150bhp. This puts it into direct comparison with many of the 2.5-litre turbodiesel units offered by the Steed’s competitors. It’ll get to 60mph in around 12.5 seconds and top out at around the ton, so it’s not lethargic. And it’ll tow a braked trailer of up to 2,500kgs. As you would expect in a big pick-up, the steering and gearchange aren’t anything to give Porsche designers recourse to the draw-

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ing board, but it’s big, honest and does exactly what you’d expect and more of a vehicle in this class and at this price point.

The Steed’s 310Nm of torque gives it decent lugging ability and combine that with a switchable fourwheel drive system and decent ground clearance and you have a vehicle that you wouldn’t feel shy about giving a good working over off-road. In fact it’s hard to think of too many better pick-ups if you have an un-tarmaced approach to a site and need something that’s going to soak up punishment, day in, day out.

Design and Build Think of an Isuzu Rodeo that’s been scaled up in virtually every dimension and you’ll have a good idea of the Steed’s styling. It’s nothing particularly adventurous but, and perhaps even more importantly, nor does it appear to be anything conspicuously bargain basement. The double cab offers a decent amount of space up front and while the dashboard plastics are a bit scratchy, they’re certainly tough-looking.

The dashboard is functional but all of the controls are logically placed and easy to read.

The driver and passenger leather seats offer decent all-round visibility, as you’ll need when piloting a vehicle this big around, and there’s space for three passengers on the bench seats in the rear without too much of a squeeze on leg room. The load bay is a good size, although as with many pick-up trucks, you’d probably want an optional lockable topper for added security.

Market and Model Value for money is bound to draw buyers to the Chinese brands and the Great Wall Steed offers us a taste of what we can expect. With many of its double cab pickup rivals starting at around £20,000 even in their most stripped out basic specifications, we can’t see the Steed’s importers having any trouble shifting stock at prices starting from around £14,000 for the single double cab bodystyle available.

Features fitted as standard to all Steeds include 16-inch alloy wheels, daytime running lights, remote central locking, a Thatcham-approved Category 1 alarm, electric front and rear windows, an Alpine

CD/ radio with USB/MP3 and Bluetooth connectivity, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, air-conditioning, heated fronted seats and a full leather interior.

Cost of Ownership The figures we have indicate that the Great Wall Steed will emit 220g/km of carbon dioxide and return a combined fuel economy figure of 34mpg. That’s very competitive indeed for such a large vehicle and the generous torque figure means that you won’t need to thrash this engine within an inch of its life to make progress, thus helping real world economy.

Depreciation is a tougher one to assess.

Great Wall is an unknown quantity to many British buyers and until it builds a reputation for itself, it’s unlikely that residual values will be quite as strong as the usual pick-up contenders. Still, that has to be offset against the fact that you’re paying so much less upfront. The UK importers are now offering a class-leading six year / 125,000 mile warranty, plus a six year anti-perforation warranty, three years of paint warranty and three more of roadside assistance.

Summary Although a pick-up truck isn’t the most obvious way to establish a brand, it’s hard to argue that successes, however modest, build success. The Great Wall Steed really can’t fail to make an impression with pick-up buyers given its astonishingly low asking price.

The product itself appears strong enough. A pick-up doesn’t need to be too sophisticated. Most buyers are looking for capability, ruggedness and value and the Steed scores well on all three criteria. If you’re a user chooser looking for a car-like experience, you might prefer to spend a little more on a Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara or Volkswagen Amarok but in this financial climate, many of us are looking to trim our overheads and the Steed comes up trumps. The Chinese are coming and it’s going to be interesting.

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