NEWS

LELY TESTS AUTONOMOUS ZERO GRAZING CONCEPT

The Exos is believed to be the first concept that autonomously zero grazes, loads and feeds fresh grass. The technical details are under wraps, but we can reveal the electrically-powered vehicle, which can work 24 hours a day, constantly monitors the percentage of fresh grass in the ration and also collects field data. Already working on test farms, the goal with the first prototypes is to collect as much information as possible about autonomously harvesting grass. Lely plans to further develop the concept during the next few years and is also investigating using it to apply liquid fertilisers. It is not known how much the autonomous vehicle will cost or when it will be commercially available.

OPICO BRINGS CHRONO TO THE UK

Following comprehensive field testing with contractors in the west country this season, the full range of six and eight-row Maschio Gaspardo Chrono precision drills are now available in the UK from Opico. Working at speeds of 14-18km/hr, main features are a new seed delivery system, air bag suspension and electronic controlled metering for both seed and fertiliser. It also features GPS-compatible ISObus controls, 60-litre seed hoppers and front disc-openers. In combination with the electrically-driven seeding units and microgranular applicator, the GPS-compatible drill controller provides automatic row shut-off/section control.

ATG in India

Yokohama Rubber Co which owns Alliance Tyre Group is investing US$165m in a new plant located in Andhra Pradesh in south east India. Construction is scheduled to take place before the end of the year and the new site should be operational by early 2023 and capable of producing