As the agricultural industry continues to work on reducing its carbon footprint, many are looking at swapping their diesel guzzling machines for electric powered ones. And visitors to this year’s Midlands Machinery Show will have the opportunity to see some of these machines in action.
Introducing the new Avant E6 loader, a battery powered electric loader, is Avant Machinery. “We want to give everyone a real-life practical demonstration of what benefits a zero emissions machine can offer,” explains Richard Jenkins at Avant UK.
The firm will be demonstrating the machine’s capabilities together with different attachments. “We span a large range of sectors with our machines and attachments, which appeal to many businesses and industries,” says Mr Jenkins.
“So we want to demonstrate a range of versatile attachments that benefit all and show that a zero emissions machine doesn’t have to be a one trick pony.”
There will also be an opportunity to ask any burning questions. “The industry is starting to think more about zero emissions but have their concerns and doubts towards this next step. We want to tackle these preconceived ideas head on, by showing the machines in action and proving the capabilities in a practical application.”
For those interested in zero emission grass cutting, whether as a homeowner, contractor or for municipality – Iseki Tractors will be demonstrating its Raymo mower. “The Raymo mower is great for solar farms and steep banks, as you can cut the grass under them without having to resort to pesticides,” says Alan Prickett, business development manager at Iseki UK and Ireland.
The radio-controlled mower is beneficial from a safety point of view too. “When used as a brush cutter on a steep slope, the associated risks of trips, falls and strains are taken away – which is one of the main benefits,” says Mr Prickett.
In the demo ring, visitors will be able to see how easy it is to change from the battery power pack to the hybrid power pack. “We will also be demonstrating its durability and offering an opportunity for visitors to experience the mower first-hand, by driving the mower around the ring themselves.”
Reesink Agriculture will be showcasing FarmTrac’s flagship model, the FT25G – the industry’s first all-electric tractor. “Since entering the market in 2019, the FT25G has hit the headlines and generated much interest from those wanting a clean energy alternative for their grounds,” explains Craig Cooper, Reesink Agriculture.
“Revered for its efficiency and sought after green credentials, the FT25G is powered by a 72V lithium-ion battery and onboard charger. It can be charged from any domestic socket to 100% in eight hours, and with up to seven hours of runtime it won’t run out of power in the middle of a job.”
For visitors wanting to continue the sustainable theme, NFU East Midlands is holding their annual environment conference on ‘Carbon – opportunity, not problem’, says show manager Elizabeth Halsall. “With the agricultural industry making steps towards net zero, it’s great to be able to demonstrate electric machinery in practice and allow visitors a chance to answer their burning questions.”
