What’s new for 2023?

SUZUKI

Suzuki’s range of KingQuad ATVs now come fitted with an enhanced security package courtesy of partners Datatool and Datatag. Suzuki has been working with Datatag and fitting its CESAR forensic marking system for over 10 years but has recently bolstered its security offering by partnering with Datatool to fit a Thatcham accredited tracking and immobiliser system as well. The Datatool Stealth S5+ tracker and immobiliser actively protect the ATV against unauthorised movement as well as providing hotwire/ forced ignition protection. It has been developed for the harsh environments that ATVs must withstand. Waterproof with a built-in antenna, the Datatool Stealth is a modern tracking device which benefits from a UK-based 24/7/365 Theft Monitoring Team and is 4G-enabled for better tracking abilities as well as providing tow-away alerts and key cloning protection. In addition, the Datatool App enables customers to see the location of their ATV in real time as well as journey history so customers can see where the vehicle has been used.

MCHALE

Following a direct request from customers, McHale has developed a new range of non-conditioner mowers. The McHale Pro Glide R310 is fitted with a 3m cutter bar to provide a cutting width of 3.1m using a 7-disc bed. The McHale Pro Glide R310 utilises proven technology from the conditioner mower range and benefits from a number of novel features which result in better ground following ability and quicker reaction times to changes in ground conditions.

Claydon

Claydon exhibited the new range of Evolution mounted drills, all of which are designed for drilling direct but can also be used after consolidation in ploughing and min-till scenarios. All Claydon Evolution models feature a hydraulic fan, Artemis metering control, tramlining facility, front tine/7” A-share configuration, double rear toolbar and road lights. The 3m Seed and Fertiliser version was shown alongside a 4m Hybrid T4 trailed drill, a 7.5m Straw Harrow and a 4m TerraBlade inter-row hoe.

METHANE-POWERED TRACTOR

“A pioneering and game changing, net-zero alternative for the agricultural sector” is being developed, according to Stefano Tumolo, sales and marketing director of emissions specialist Eminox. Eminox is part of a £15.6m project aimed at producing the world’s first methanepowered, off-road, heavy-duty tractor. CNH Industrial, Bennamann Ltd and European Thermodynamics Ltd are also part of the project.

Fox Robotics

Fox Robotics’ Hugo RT is a durable, efficient, battery-powered robot designed to reduce the reliance on seasonal labour. The outdoor logistics robot helps to automate several year-round tasks, from transporting picked fruit to carrying delicate seedlings and soil in narrow polytunnels.

TEK Seating offers a wide choice of replacement driver seats for agricultural vehicles from leading manufacturers such as United Seats, Grammer and KAB Seating. We liked the Rancher LGV95/H152 AHD and Highlander

LGV95/HL152 seats from United Seats, featuring integrated controls and powered adjustment for height and weight settings. They offer a variety of adjustments to enhance cab ergonomics, while cushions provide optimum comfort levels. We also liked the MSG85/721 Maximo Basic from Grammer – a mechanical seat designed for standard tractors with a seat height that can be set in three steps via a locking mechanism.

LYNX/DEERE

Lynx Engineering showed a classic John Deere 6000 series tractor which it had fully refurbished and restored – and fitted with brand-new kit to equip it for the demands of modern-day farming. The Stoll ‘Next Generation’ ProfiLine front loader is just one example. A Stoll Pro Control electronic joystick has also been fitted. The near 30-year-old tractor, refurbished to mark the company’s 30th anniversary, has also been fitted with a new Zuidberg front linkage and PTO, a new Flexxaire reversing cooling/cleaning fan to replace the original viscous fan, and a fully overhauled Dromone rear pickup hitch.

NEW HOLLAND’S AUTONOMOUS TRACTOR

New Holland has shown a prototype of a ‘clean blue’ coloured electric and autonomous tractor. The T4 Electric Power has a battery with enough energy for one working day and delivers up to 120hp. A Case IH variant will follow. Production will start in late 2023.

ETESIA NEW RIDE-ON MOWER

Etesia UK has launched the Hydro 100 MK124 ride-on mower. It has all the features of the popular Hydro 100 but with a larger 124cm cutting deck. Its 18hp twin-cylinder Kawasaki engine and its larger 16-litre tank give it more power and range. The cutting deck has a rear central ejection, two counter-rotating blades, a high-clearance bridge and large 500-litre grassbox.