In brief: Machinery news this week

Weidemann’s new electric loader

Weidemann has released the first fully electric farm loader. The articulated steer loader is targeted at indoor areas and equine yards where problems with emissions from standard loaders could be an issue. The design is based on the 1160 Weidemann Hoftrac.

The loader’s advantage is that the machine is noiseless, reducing the effect on animals in the shed. The lower emission levels and the ease of use, with low service requirements, are key points of the design and appeal of the Hoftrac machine.

Weidemann claims that the electric-powered engine delivers noticeably quicker power and torque uptake in the machine, with a 1.3t lift capacity.

The tipping load is increased as the weight of the battery acts as a counterbalance to improve stability.

The loader uses the industrial lead acid battery, which on charge will operate from two to four hours, depending on the loading of the machine. The charge time is six hours on the quick charger and eight hours on the standard charger.

Weidemann claims the machine is ideal for 750 hours work per year. And that the repayment on the 20% extra cost will be redeemed after 2,800 operational hours.

Fendt adds silage wagon to lineup

At a press conference at the SIMA show, AGCO confirmed that there will be a silage wagon in Fendt colours by the end of the year. There have been rumours about possible partnerships with a number of brands including one Irish manufacturer – as of yet, nothing is confirmed and it is all speculation.

Kverneland Fastbale

Contractors who visited the SIMA show have been impressed by the initial design of the prototype Fastbale machine from Kverneland. This non-stop baling and wrapping machine is the concept of a Mayo man, taking the design to Kverneland to develop.

Toplink Machine of the Week

This week’s machine of the week is a Fendt 724 with 2,250 engine hours. The tractor is the Profi plus specification with front linkage. It is described by Atkins Machinery as a tractor among tractors. The cost of the tractor is €115,000, plus VAT. For further details, contact Atkins, Cork on 021-4933420, Bandon on 023-8841664 or Fermoy on 025-31645. www.atkins.ie