Serious Machinery

SERIOUS
MACHINERY
NOVEMBER 2009
THE MAGAZINE FROM CHALLENGER
PROJECT X28 REVEALED!
Pages 4-5
NEW MT500 TRACTOR MODELS – P3
MT865 USER EXPERIENCE – P6-7
NEW REMOTE MONITORING SYSTEM – p10-11
NEW TERRAGATOR – P12-13
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www.challenger-ag.com
WELCOME
SERIOUS
MACHINERY
INSIDE
THIS
ISSUE
New MT500 tractor models
Challenger will be out in force at November’s Agritechnica in
Germany, Europe’s premier farm machinery event. We look
forward to welcoming you to our stand in Hall 9 where we will
be showcasing some exciting new machines including the new
RoGator 600 Series, TerraGator TG8333 plus the latest
C Series tracked tractors and advances in machine
management and utilisation.
While the global recession continues to bite, in particular
constraining the credit environment and the availability of retail
finance, the fundamentals for agricultural expansion remain.
3
Cover story:
New RoGator sprayer
4-5
MT865 – a UK customer’s experience
6-7
Tackling the Bulgarian harvest
8
Multi-tasking MT455B tractors
9
AGCOMMAND: Monitor, record and
analyse your machines remotely
10-11
New TerraGator 8333
12-13
Fleet meets 40,000 ha planting
challenge down under
14
Industrial application: Building on firm
foundations
15
Challenger equipment boosts work
rates on Czech Republic farm
16-17
News: Celebrations for 100th tractors;
Insight into US agribusiness;
Challenger joins the dirt riders;
Field day in Mongolia; Retail finance
scheme in Russia; Massive air
seeder rig
18-19
Three-way machine partnership takes
on multiple farm duties
20
© AGCO Limited 2009
Challenger is working proactively with its partner AGCO Finance to help facilitate credit opportunities for
customers. In Russia, for example, a special scheme has been launched to offer Challenger customers flexible
leasing packages. (More details page 19).
Overall, 2009 was a relatively good year for crop production. Looking ahead, global grain inventories are
expected to rise but remain below historical levels on a stocks-to-use basis. Longer term, world grain use is
forecast to increase as a result of steady population growth, higher per capita incomes, changing diets and
increases in biofuel production.
These fundamental drivers will require additional harvest area, increases in yields and top-level machinery to
optimise output. Challenger equipment is specifically designed and built for highly-professional operators
looking to make the most of their resources and add significantly to their bottom line. Throughout this issue
of Serious Machinery you can read about real, practical situations where Challenger is doing just that.
PRIZE
WINNER
The Challenger MT765C tracked
tractor picked up the prestigious
Golden Grain 2009 prize in
the machinery category at
Czech Republic’s Mother Earth
(Země živitelka) exhibition.
The prize-winning Challenger MT765C with distributor
Phoenix-Zeppelin representatives Jan Soták and
David Fiala.
The judging panel and
assessment committee
consisted of government,
agricultural and food and
forestry industry representatives
plus members of the České
Budějovice Exhibition.
A brand of AGCO, Challenger supplies a
wide range of high performance, high specification
agricultural machinery for the professional farming
and contracting sector including tracked tractors,
application equipment, wheeled tractors, combine
harvesters and balers.
The Editor
Serious Machinery
AGCO Limited
Abbey Park Stoneleigh
Kenilworth CV8 2TQ
England
If you would prefer to receive Serious Machinery
regularly via email, please log on to the
website shown here and follow the
instructions to subscribe.
Email: [email protected]
Web site: www.challenger-ag.com
New top-of-the-range
models join MT500B
Series tractors
Two new high-power models – the 200hp MT585B and 215hp MT595B –
are being added at the top of Challenger’s MT500B wheeled tractor range.
The new models feature a choice of TechStar continuously variable
transmission or AutoPower VI 24-speed semi-powershift.
Each transmission provides the level of control and economy
that you need to achieve your operational requirements.
Boasting some of the best power-to-weight ratios for
tractors in this class, both models will have a max lift
capacity of 9300kg and weigh in at around 7000kg
unballasted. This makes them the ideal machines
for high productivity drilling, baling and all
cultivation work.
All models will be available for the spring
cultivation season.
More details next issue.
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NEW AT
Challenger’s new RoGator 600 Series self-propelled sprayer is at the
‘working pilot’ stage and is set to be introduced in the middle of 2010.
Here we bring you a sneak preview of the machine with images straight
from the engineers’ working designs.
ROGATOR 600 sets
Cab inside
the new standard
Challenger is poised to raise the self-propelled
sprayer standard to new heights with its latest
machine, codenamed X28. The brand-new sprayer –
the RoGator 600 – is being previewed at Germany’s
Agritechnica show this November where a fullyoperational pilot machine will be on display.
The entire vehicle, designed and built in Europe, is
completely new from the ground up – from its exclusive
chassis to its novel spraying system. Unique features in
every area of this revolutionary design propel it straight
to the top of the technology tree.
“We have consulted widely among professional farmers
and sprayer operators who work in every main market in
Europe,” explains Challenger’s Age Krug. “The result is
the Challenger RoGator 600 which provides unrivalled
features for optimum accuracy of application,
productivity, comfort and economy.”
“The RoGator 600 is an utterly uncompromising design
that, like all other Challenger equipment, is developed
and engineered to the highest standards,” he adds.
Research and development
By combining in-depth research with their own
outstanding knowledge and expertise of manufacturing
application vehicles, Challenger engineers have
assessed every aspect of the spraying task. In the
process they have developed new, unique and radical
innovations to increase performance - from providing
the largest and best filling station, through to the
unique plumbing and boom suspension.
The chassis is not only completely new, but also unique
– providing ultimate boom stability. Challenger has also
developed a new, fully-independent suspension system,
which offers industry-leading features.
The cab, which comes from parent company AGCO,
for the first time offers sprayer operators the comfort,
space, visibility and working environment they come
to expect from top specification tractors.
As part of AGCO, one of the world’s leading
manufacturers of farm machinery, Challenger is able
to access expertise, components and technology that
are simply unavailable to smaller, specialist firms.
Engineers at Challenger’s European headquarters
in Grubbenvorst, in the Netherlands, have fully
exploited this opportunity to design and build the
ultimate, state-of-the-art self propelled sprayer.
More details will be available on the unrivalled
technology and specification of the RoGator 600 at
its launch in 2010. Look out for more information
in future editions of Serious Machinery.
Unique hydraulic
working height
control
The ROGATOR 600 offers unrivalled features which will include:
Full automatic self-levelling suspension –
the RoGator 600 can operate in low or high
position depending on required clearance.
When fitted with standard 480/80R46 tyres,
clearance in the low position is 75 cm and
in the high position 120 cm. Track width
is adjustable between 1.80-2.25 m.
LOW MODE
Free clearance 75 cm
HIGH MODE
Free clearance 120 cm
• Three models, all powered by the latest generation, economical
AGCO SISU POWER engines from 170hp to 240hp. Transversely-mounted,
in the centre of the machine for outstanding machine stability, optimum weight
distribution, low cab noise and ease of access
• Fully-hydrostatic transmission with traction control and Power Management
for most efficient fuel consumption, combined with latest intelligent
controller to provide CVT-like operation and driveability
• Unique hydraulic working height control for unrivalled stability and
crop clearance
• Unique, single-beam chassis design for optimum weight distribution,
maximum manoeuvrability and ideal location of key components
• Hydraulic track-width adjustment
• New high capacity chemical induction unit and ergonomically-designed
electrically-controlled filling station
• Fully-independent suspension on each wheel, designed specifically for
the RoGator 600 sprayers
• Radical new boom suspension and control system, with perfect height adjustment
for unrivalled stability
• Purpose-designed, low level tanks with capacities from 3500 litres to
6000 litres, sculpted to optimise weight distribution
• Innovative, compact ‘plumbing module’ featuring fixed pipe work and
few flexible hoses cuts the risk of leaks and reduces maintenance
• High capacity centrifugal pump minimises maintenance, lifts performance
and has auto-priming for fast filling
• Deluxe tractor specification, spacious cab offering ultimate comfort,
visibility and control
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A Challenger MT865B carries out heavy primary cultivation and
seedbed preparation on a 2000 ha estate in the UK.
Using Auto-Guide means that the driver can turn around and look at the implement without
worrying about keeping the tractor on the mark.
An integral part of the system
and enables the implement to be used to the full all the
time. As a result, output is increased by 5-8% in one
hit. Added to that is a reduction in driver fatigue, and the
fact that he can turn around and look at the implement
without worrying about keeping the tractor on the mark.
The same applies if you are working in bad visibility
such as a foggy morning, dusty conditions or at night
– Auto-Guide acts as your eyes. There’s no doubt that
this technology is cost- effective.”
John Goodchild with driver, John Lane. Their
Challenger MT865B is a key element in the
drive for super-efficient operations.
“Being engaged in the business of producing
commodities traded on world markets, there’s not much
we can do to significantly influence the price we are paid
for our crops but what we can do is lower the cost of
production by more efficient operations,” comments
John Goodchild, Farm Manager at the all-arable Bartlow
Estate in Cambridgeshire, Eastern England.
“As the area farmed at Bartlow increased, we took the
decision in 2001 to seriously increase our tractor
horsepower and implement width, whilst working with
the same number of men,” he adds. “Our formula for
increased output is speed multiplied by width, and this
is reflected in our current machinery/manpower regime.”
“In this country, machine width tends to be limited by
the implement’s ability to fold up small enough to move
on the road,” he continues. “Therefore, to achieve target
output in the field it’s necessary to travel quickly and
comfortably. That’s the nub of the Challenger for us –
it has the power to maintain forward speed, achieve
the output and travel quickly over rough ground.”
The 2000 ha operation, comprising eight different
farms in three locations produces winter wheat
(1000 ha), spring barley (250 ha), rape (300 ha)
and sugar beet (400 ha). In addition, some 2000 ha
of sugar beet are contract-harvested. Under foreman,
David Hannah, there is a permanent staff of six plus
temporary labour at harvest.
“Basically, our soil type is split into one half heavy and
one half light – a mixture of boulder clay on the one
hand and medium sandy, clay-loam on the other,”
continues John. “We operate a simple rotation. On the
heavy land, this involves rape followed by two wheats.
On the lighter land, we plant sugar beet followed by
50% winter wheat and 50% spring barley, followed
by wheat and then back to sugar beet.”
Working around 1400 hours per annum, a 565hp
Challenger MT865B tracked tractor is a key element in
the Bartlow Estate’s drive for super-efficient operations.
A seven-year old Claas 95E tracked machine also helps
out with seedbed preparation and drilling.
Truly multi-tasking, the MT865B has an extensive array
of implements to work with at Bartlow - ranging
from a big 12-furrow reversible plough to cultivators
and a sub-soiler (see box). “As we deal with so many
variables such as soil types, weather conditions and
so on, it’s good to be able to draw from our armoury
of implements,” adds John. “Some we’ve had for
many years and some we might not use for a season
or more, but they are there to give us the choice.”
The bulk of the autumn work is carried out between
mid-August and mid-October. In the spring, the team
looks to complete sugar beet planting in 14 days.
Around 50% of the Bartlow land is ploughed and the
MT865B spends much of its time working with a
Grégoire Besson 12-furrow reversible.
Driver, John Lane is enthusiastic about the MT865B’s
operator environment, praising the ergonomically-laid
out controls, easy access via a good set of steps and
well-positioned cab side pillars which offer excellent
visibility. He uses the machine’s on-board Tractor
Management Centre’s (TMC) Power Management
tool to run at optimum fuel economy.
Driver John Lane uses Auto-Guide to reduce overlaps
when working with an implement. John Goodchild
reckons this boosts output by 5-8%.
“The Challenger’s got plenty of power and grip.
It literally eats up the work. With its 18 litre engine
and ability to lug at moderate revs (1600-1800 rpm,)
it provides the best balance of fuel economy and
output.” says John.
“The tracks also iron out the bumps in the ride.
To maintain output, our drivers have to travel quickly
and stay in the seat for long periods. They like tracks
because they can maintain a good speed when
cultivating without getting shaken to bits,” he remarks.
The tradition for crawler tractors at Bartlow Estate goes
back to the mid-1980s with the purchase of a Caterpillar
D5 equipped with steel tracks.
“With the twin-track system, I find that the service and
maintenance costs on the running gear are lower,” he
continues. “I also like the fact that my Challenger dealer,
Thurlow Nunn Standen (TNS) at Littleport can offer
AGCO’s five year ‘manager’ maintenance agreement.
This provides known costs and makes for easier
budgeting. I get excellent service from TNS. They
are very enthusiastic about Challenger, and service
is provided by a dedicated team which helps
with continuity.”
“At these higher horsepowers, tracks are a good way
of transmitting power to the ground,” explains John.
“The absence of compaction is obviously one of the big
advantages. I haven’t measured things scientifically but
just by eye, you can tell. When preparing seedbeds, the
only impression left on the land is the print of the track
belt bars – you can’t ask for more than that. The track
runs totally parallel to the ground and it rarely struggles.
Track slip is minimal and you don’t get those telltale
wheelings in the crop. There is plenty of weight in the
machine but it is spread evenly over the track area.”
“In addition, we have a lot of flint in our land which
is very hard on tyres and can easily cut the sidewalls.
It may sound basic but the great thing about tracks is
that there are never any punctures!”
The TMC incorporates a monitor screen along with all
the transmission, hydraulic, linkage and PTO controls.
Where Auto-Guide steering is fitted, this too is set up
and operated though the TMC. Power Management
offers operators a tremendous opportunity to improve
outputs and reduce fuel consumption. It works by
automatically controlling the transmission shifts and the
engine speed (rpm) to keep the tractor working in its
most efficient range at all times. The engine’s ECM
(Electronic Control Modules) work with transmission
sensors to ensure the tractor is running in the optimum
power band for the engine.
“The Challenger MT865B has been very reliable and is
an integral part of our overall system – it’s the basis of
how we cost-effectively prepare seedbeds and establish
crops here at Bartlow,” John concludes.
Implements used with a Challenger MT865B
at Bartlow Estate
• Grégoire Besson 12-furrow reversible plough (for
second wheats and before and after sugar beet)
• Grégoire Besson Discordon 4.7m (9 legs) (used on rape
stubbles)
• Vaderstad Rexius Twin Press 8m – (“ideal for making
seedbeds out of heavy boulder clay”)
• Simba 8m Top Tilth
• Tim Howard Maxi Lift 7-leg subsoiler
• Lemken Gigant Rubin disc stubble cultivator
• Lemken Kompaktor 10m – seedbed cultivator
• Wibergs 10m spring-tine cultivator
The team at Bartlow has fully embraced Auto-Guide
automatic steering. “The drivers just soak up the
technology as each new development appears,” says
John. “Auto-Guide is brilliant for reducing overlapping.
When using a 10m implement, an overlap of 0.5m is
not uncommon. Auto-Guide completely eliminates this
The MT865B has the
power to maintain
forward speed, achieve
high output and travel
quickly over rough
ground.
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Tackling the
Bulgarian harvest
2009 saw the debut harvest season for Challenger
combines and balers in Bulgaria.
In the Karnobat region of the country’s southeast,
a CH652 with 6.6m Freeflow table was delivered
to Agroprogres 2000, one of the biggest farms in
the area. Owned by Angel Angelov, the farm
produces over 10,000 ha of crops.
“We installed the combine at the farm at the
beginning of June,” reports Elisaveta Markova,
Managing Director of Challenger’s Bulgarian
distributor, Varex. “By mid-July, it had harvested
600 ha of barley (at yields of 4.5 tonne/ha) and
wheat (5t/ha) plus 500 ha of coriander, the
culinary herb. 600 ha of sunflower was on the
agenda for August.”
“The operators quickly got to grips with the
combine’s operation and found all the field
adjustments easy to make,” she explains.
“Harvesting at speeds of around 6.5-7 km/h,
the team achieved excellent grain samples with
losses below 1.5%.”
Meanwhile, over in the Gurkovo region in central
Bulgaria, a CH680 rotary combine and Challenger
LB44B big square baler did duty at Askent Farm.
Farm Manager, Plamen Penchev is responsible for
1400 ha and 600 head of dairy cows on this very
modern enterprise in the village of Elhovo.
Crop production this year included 500 ha of
wheat and barley, 500 ha of rape and 400 ha
of maize and hay. Plamen Penchev selects both
the barley and wheat varieties for their long straw
and cuts the crop very low prior to baling with
the big square baler.
“2009 was a very dry season in the area which
affected yields,” says Elisaveta. “The big
Challenger rotary combine with 9.2m PowerFlow
table was set to work first on barley. Fine
adjustments were made to the rotor to ensure
very gentle handling of the straw. Such is the
volume of this long-straw barley that forward
speed was kept to 7-8 km/h. Fuel consumption
averaged some 10 litre/ha.”
With the barley safely gathered in, it was on to
the oil-seed rape. Here, the CH680 was equipped
with vertical knives and a rape auger and straw
chopper. Harvesting at 7 km/h, yields came in
at 3.8 t/ha.
A Challenger 652B on the 10,000 ha
Agroprogres 2000 farm in Karnobat.
The combination of the renowned PowerFlow
table and rape auger consistently produces a top
result when harvesting oil-seed rape. The
powered belts on PowerFlow ensure even crop
feed into the machine. Furthermore, the long
distance between the knife and the main table
auger negates the need for any table extensions
especially when working in rape. Taller crops can
often mean slower feeding through the combine
table but with the rape auger a fast even feed can
be easily maintained. Fitted to the PowerFlow
table, the quick-attach rape auger operates like
a moving table back-plate, propelling the crop
towards the centre of the table where it is fed
down to the standard auger and into the elevator.
For the wheat harvest, weather conditions became
very unsettled but over the course of five days, the
Askent Farm team completed 250 ha. A 50 ha/day
average is a really excellent achievement no matter
where in the world you are harvesting.
“Plamen Penchev was impressed with the
CH680’s high capacity, simplicity and excellent
monitoring system which enabled them to achieve
very good grain samples,” Elisaveta continues.
Operators, Imre Szabó, Lajos Bartyik, Zsolt Sebők with their new Challenger tractors.
The Challenger 680 rotary combine
worked successfully in barley, oil-seed
rape and wheat at Askent Farm. Local
storks made the most of the harvest too.
Terra Coop is one of the major private agri-businesses in
southeast Hungary with land fanning out over a 50 km
radius and fields ranging dramatically in size from 1 ha
up to 270 ha. The enterprise recently took delivery of a
trio of Challenger MT455B tractors.
Starting from zero in 1994, the farm now grows an
extensive range of crops including 1200 ha wheat, 250 ha
sunflower, 400 ha rape seed, 210 ha peas, 210 ha
mustard-seed, 300 ha maize, 200 ha sweetcorn, 140 ha
hybrid maize seeds, 140 ha sugar beet, 110 ha silage
maize, 70 ha oil radish and 40 ha parsley.
On another dairy enterprise in central Bulgaria, a
Challenger LB34B big square baler equipped with
optional cutter harvested the hay and straw which
helps sustains the Diana-MI farm’s 600 cows.
Baling 2000 x 400 kg bales of straw and 200 of
hay, owner, Mincho Ivanov was able to reduce the
number of men, machinery and hours usually
needed to complete this important summer job.
“When we first started out we only used second-hand
equipment but the lack of reliability prompted our
decision to switch to new for all our front-line machinery,”
says Pál Szarvas, Director of Terra Coop. “Today we
have some 40 tractors working on the farm and some
60 employees.”
With its ability to cut crop accurately into a
consistent pre-selected size, the cutter option is
the ideal solution for preparing hay for feeding to
livestock or for the easy distribution of straw for
bedding. Slicing the crop as it enters the bale
chamber not only saves time but eliminates a
number of issues associated with baling and
grinding feed with ration mixers.
The Challenger brand joined the line-up in summer
2009 with the arrival of three 100hp MT455B multipurpose wheeled tractors. “They were the right price,
have a high level of standard features and technical
solutions plus they are suitable for a variety of
applications,” remarks Pál.
“We adjusted the baler to cut straw into a fine
chop which we find the best size for our livestock
bedding,” says Mincho Ivanov.
The fan over the knotter on the LB34B keeps the
knotter stack clean at all times – even when using
the cutter. Furthermore, the automatic lubrication
system and 30 twine ball on-board storage
capacity reduces the need for daily maintenance hence less downtime, more productivity.
Multi-tasking
MT455B tractors
The Diana-MI dairy farm selected a
Challenger LB34B big square baler
equipped with optional cutter for its
straw and hay harvest.
Pál Szarvas, Director Terra Coop.
“Our Ministry of Agriculture planned for average national
wheat yields of 4-4.2 tonnes/ha. We averaged 5 t/ha and in
one 107 ha irrigated field, recorded as much as 9.2 t/ha, ”
Pál comments. “The sugar beet business is still proving
profitable although a number of sugar factories have closed
which has pushed up transport distances.”
“There’s a lot of transport work for them to do here and
they also get involved in seeding, spraying, fertiliser
spreading and row crop cultivation work.”
“A future possible business opportunity for us is seed
production,” he says. “The challenge here is the isolation
of the seed crops (to ensure against cross-contamination)
and implementing the right irrigation and pest control.”
From the beginning of March, this region of Hungary was
hit by a severe 10-week drought which had a significant
effect on crop establishment and growth. Despite this,
Terra Coop is still looking to report an average year.
“It’s difficult to know what next year will bring for the
agricultural sector but at Terra Coop we will certainly be
looking to move to min-till and measures for water
conservation,” he concludes.
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www.challenger-ag.com 11
NEW AT
Dorus van Esch, Challenger Director, Technology and Business Development,
looks at a brand-new tool which uses telemetry to help monitor and control
machines and their operating costs, as well as reduce the burden of generating
and keeping farm records.
Monitor, record and analyse
your machines – wherever
they are
“
A new telemetry system being unveiled at Germany’s
Agritechnica show is set to change the way Challenger
customers will be to able to work with and manage
their equipment.
Developed by AGCO, Challenger’s parent company,
AGCOMMAND is an easy-to-use data recording and
fleet management system.
Challenger equipment is renowned for its high capacity
and high performance. Our machinery is designed to
produce the lowest cost price per hectare with the best
possible quality of work. We already use many technical
features to increase profitability, and the AGCOMMAND
telemetry system is the next tool that will allow
customers to become even more efficient and in full
control of machine performance and operating cost.
In essence, the system will transfer both machinery data
and GPS (satellite) location data so you can see where
an actual machine is located and what it is actually
doing. This includes vehicle data - such as machine
status (parked, transport, working, headland turning)
and, progressively, will handle fuel consumption, engine
load and work rates - plus operational data, such as
crop yields, moisture content and grain loss.
This data will then be transferred to the AGCO central
database via GPRS (the mobile phone network) and
accessed through the worldwide web from a desktop
computer, laptop or handheld device such as a mobile
phone, Blackberry or smart phone. The full mobility
of the system will make AGCOMMAND unique
in the market and, because it can be fitted to any
manufacturer’s equipment, it can be used right
across a multi-brand machinery fleet.
If there is no GPRS signal, AGCOMMAND will store
data internally for up to 50 hours and transfer the data
when a signal is available. Even if you are in an area
where there are some GPRS drop-outs the
AGCOMMAND system will still do its job and no data
will be lost in areas of poor mobile phone coverage.
Optimum performance
AGCOMMAND gives customers a perfect tool to
optimise performance. It will gather myriad different
pieces of information to help manage and control
operating costs – for example fuel and maintenance -
Telemetry – a
technology that
allows remote
measurement
and reporting
of information
”
from which you will then be able to create reports
using the AGCO website interface. The extensive list
of reports is set to include everything from the amount
of time an engine is running to operator efficiency and
field harvest summaries.
By scrutinising operator work rates, the system
promotes accountability and can help drivers to be
coached to reach optimum performance and maximum
capacity per hour.
Maintenance
AGCOMMAND will make maintenance easier to plan as
technical issues on the vehicle are sent directly to the
database which enables speedier response times. Data
can be transferred direct to your local Challenger dealer
which enables him to react quickly and better manage
his parts inventory and workshop load according to
customer demands. In addition, the system will also
help assure timely maintenance scheduling to remain
within warranty and contractual terms and conditions.
Geo-fencing and logistics
Another exciting feature of AGCOMMAND is the facility
to create a ‘geo-fence’ or virtual GPS boundary to
provide automatic warning of the machine and operator
entering or leaving an area. This can really help farm
logistics and speed up routine tasks like refueling,
refilling of chemicals in spray tanks or fertiliser in
spreaders by reducing the down-time that can often
occur. Not only does the system provide a warning
that inputs are required, it shows the machine’s exact
position in the field so it can be quickly and easily
How does it work?
Vehicle position
determined by
GPS receiver
GSM network
Data stream transferred
through GSM network to
AGCO central server
located. A further benefit of geo-fencing is that should
a machine be stolen, it can be tracked. Warnings can
easily be sent by text message to designated mobile
phones or by email.
Exporting and uploading information
Information can be transferred from AGCOMMAND into
other management programs by using common data
export files. The information can be used with AGCO’s
GTA machine control and monitoring software or in
other programs that use agricultural standard files to
transfer data.
Another unique feature of AGCOMMAND will be
the ability to transfer data into the system via a mobile
phone. Items like pictures, text or voice recordings can
be uploaded to the central database by supervisors and
operators to help highlight any issues. Thus, for
example, you could take a photograph of a patch of
weeds and instantly upload it to the web-base software
so that when you log on, the picture automatically
appears in the image of the field on-screen and acts
as a reminder of a problem that needs attention.
The use of telemetry-based technology is the next big
step in farm machinery development. It offers instant
access to the status of a machine, its location, its
performance and to data that is vital to manage a farm
business enterprise. For a more in-depth discussion,
and a demonstration please visit us on our stand in
Hall 9 at Agritechnica, or ask your local Challenger
representative for more information.
Data collected
from vehicle
CANBUS and
GPS-referenced
AGCO Central server
Data can be accessed through any secure internet
connection either in the office or out in the field. Access
can also be given to the AGCO dealer by the customer to
enhance service and maintenance
Contractors can share specific field
operational data with customers
Fleet owner,
contractor, farmer
Fleet owner,
contractor, farmer
AGCO dealer
Practical application
Farmers and contractors will be able to use
AGCOMMAND to obtain information on their
fleets quickly and efficiently.
• Where are my machines?
• Are my machines working at the moment
and what is their performance?
• Where have my machines been?
• What are my operating costs?
Efficiency
Contractors using AGCOMMAND to operate a
fleet of sprayers and fertiliser spreaders have
seen an increase in revenues by:
• $1800 per day by reducing mixing/
refilling time
• Reducing spraying errors with the use of
geo-fences
• Education of the driver on correct operation
• How was my machine being operated
– engine load, fuel consumption – at a
particular time/date?
• Who are my best operators?
• What was the efficiency of ploughing
in a particular field?
• Are my machines being serviced
according to schedules?
AGCOMMAND traces a machine’s movements and can show a history of its locations for any
specified period of time.
12 www.challenger-ag.com
www.challenger-ag.com 13
NEW AT
New TerraGator features
continuously variable
transmission
The Challenger TerraGator 8333 is the world’s first
specialist application vehicle to benefit from AGCO’s
renowned continuously variable transmission (CVT).
This industry-leading design, at work in more than
100,000 vehicles, provides ultimate control, efficiency
and lower running costs.
Alongside the TechStar CVT transmission, the new
machine’s features provide an enormous increase in
output and economy of operations. In short the
TG8333 is capable of spreading more volume over
a larger area, faster and with more precision than ever
before. Operators are cosseted in supreme comfort,
able to work for long hours in complete control.
The TerraGator 8333 is also available with the
AGCOMMAND telemetry system, which offers precise
location and real-time remote monitoring of machinery
and operations (see pages 10-11 for full details).
The TG8333’s 360hp (max) six-cylinder,
AGCO SISU POWER Citius 8.4 litre capacity
power unit is the perfect match for the
TechStar transmission.
Designed and built in Challenger’s facility in
Grubbenvorst in the Netherlands, the new
TerraGator 8333 is the result of considerable
research and development investment by AGCO.
the enormous advantage of allowing any forward speed
to be set at any engine rpm, which combines optimum
control and work quality with exceptional productivity
and economy.
“By working together and with access to designs and
components from the entire Challenger equipment
line-up, we have been able to make a giant leap forward
in technological developments. As part of AGCO we can
provide customers with very high specifications – from
the most advanced engines and transmissions through
to controls – more cost effectively than would normally
be possible on such specialist equipment,” explains
Challenger’s Age Krug.
The TechStar CVT has a range of automatic operating
modes, controlled by a foot pedal or a lever, as well as
the Power Direction lever. Mounted on the left-hand side
of the dashboard, this lever provides seamless forward
and reverse shuttling, an active standstill (declutch) and
also changes the speed in both directions by simply
pushing the lever forward or pulling it back.
TechStar transmission for industry-leading
control and efficiency
The TerraGator 8333 is equipped with the TechStar CVT
as standard. This industry-leading continuously variable
transmission is considerably more efficient than any
other powershift or hydrostatic design and is able to
transmit full engine power at any speed from 0-40 km/h.
The TechStar CVT, similar to that used in other
Challenger tractors, is well-proven in more than
100,000 vehicle applications and is the standard by
which all others are judged. It provides
Power Management provides an ‘intelligent electronic’
link to the engine and works in existing pedal and lever
modes. It automatically optimises the engine speed
across the full engine rev/speed range to maintain
the set forward speed. This increases output and
cuts fuel consumption.
The smooth CVT operation provides continuous
traction, which means there is minimum disturbance
of the soil or grass surface. The high level of automation
means it really is a ‘set and forget’ system, constantly
monitoring itself for the optimum output and efficiency,
while allowing operators to concentrate on other aspects
of the work.
TerraGator 8333 features:
• TechStar CVT transmission for unrivalled efficiency and
control with Power Management
• SISU AGCO POWER, 8.4 litre Citius CTA 4-V engine
(360hp max) renowned for superb fuel efficiency with
exceptional power and torque delivery
• New cab mounted lower for improved comfort with
excellent access platform
• New one-piece chassis engineered from the highest
quality steel
• Hydro-drive front-wheel with power control via
joystick. The only three-wheeler to use the same
tyre size all round
• Unique direct drive from engine to hydraulic pumps,
200 litre tank and external oil cooler
• Complete control through Falcon VT, 25 cm wide
touch-screen terminal
The SuperLoad/CombiLoad system speeds filling time and increases overall workrates.
SuperLoad employs a separate positive displacement pump to charge the system in less
than 10 secs. This cuts up to 2 mins off the normal loading time.
Once the centrifugal pump is quickly charged it starts to fill immediately, increasing capacity by
about 20% and filling a 16m³ capacity tanker in just 1.5 min.
New TG8333 joins
powerful spreading fleet
With seven TerraGator models already in his fleet,
Gonzague Brasset based in Picardie, Northern France
has plenty of experience owning and operating these
high output Challenger application machines.
In August, his company, EDT Brasset SARL became
one of the first to take delivery of the brand-new
Challenger TerraGator 8333.
Spreading fertiliser has become the bedrock of the
Brasset business with the TerraGators providing the
power and muscle they need to cover the hectares.
Power Management provides an ‘intelligent
electronic’ link to the engine and
automatically optimises the engine speed
across the full engine rev/speed range to
maintain the set forward speed. This
increases output and cuts fuel consumption.
with liquid lime and sulphate of ammonia. For dry
matter, we spread compost and by-products from the
vegetable processing industry. Generally, we look to
applying liquid at 1.5-3 tonnes/ha and solid organic
matter at 2-4 t/ha.”
Brasset’s main criteria in selecting application
equipment is to constantly move forward. This
involves an ambitious ‘to do’ list! “We want to increase
our competitiveness, cover more hectares in less time,
boost our annual volume, reduce soil damage, achieve
better (more accurate) spreading especially at the end
• New directly-driven Börger pump with
integral gearbox
• RotaCut 10,000 chopper
• SuperLoad/CombiLoad system boosts output by
cutting filling time
• Rear three-point linkage with power down, lift and
float controls
of winter/early spring, cut costs per hour and
provide a better work environment for our drivers,”
reports Gonzague.
“I like the whole TerraGator concept – it truly
recognises the need to be highly professional and
competitive and to work on a large scale. They’ve got
big capacity and high-technology features which
ensure greater accuracy. This all gives our customers
confidence,” he says.
“The new (continuously variable) transmission on
the TG8333 is a completely different approach and
provides an even better spreading result – yet more
consistency and greater precision. The CVT
transmission in conjunction with the Falcon VT
spreader controller are able to apply material at a
pre-set rate regardless of forward speed. There’s also
an increase in cab comfort.”
As a result of its strategic importance in relation to
Paris, this region of France in the Department de
L’Aisne was the scene of major battles during the
First World War and was completely destroyed as a
result. Over the years, farms regrouped and expanded
to the extent that this area became one of the first in
France to operate farming on an industrial scale.
Key crops grown include sugar beet, cereals,
potatoes and vegetables.
Spreading both liquid and dry matter, the Brasset
TerraGator fleet makes for an impressive line-up:
four TG8103 3-wheel models, a TG2505 5-wheel,
TG1603 3-wheel, TG1703 3–wheel and now, of
course, the new TG8333.
The Challenger TG8333’s cab has standard pneumatic suspension and is mounted 15cm lower
down than on previous models, with the floor 2m above the ground and an overall height of just
3.71m. This provides great visibility over the new sloping bonnet and improves comfort.
“We work with industrial companies and with farmers
direct,” Gonzague Brasset explains. “Our work
includes spraying vinasse (a sugar beet/alcohol
residue) for Potash (K) and Nitrogen (N), together
A new TerraGator 8333 for Gonzague Brasset (centre) pictured here with Challenger’s
Bernard Gibrais (left) and Jean-Paul-Herin.
14 www.challenger-ag.com
www.challenger-ag.com 15
In Australia, a Challenger tracked tractor line-up is an essential part of a massive
planting programme. Graham Fuller reports.
Fleet meets 40,000 ha
planting challenge
Logistics are pivotal to the Joyce family’s sizeable
winter planting programme if their six Challenger
tracked tractors and matching air seeders are to
perform flawlessly.
Based at Varley, at the eastern edge of Western
Australia’s Lakes District, the focus in 2009 was on
achieving their 40,000ha (100,000 acre) target with
the minimum amount of down-time.
Diederik Cloet. “While the tractor was powerful enough,
it soon became clear that the soft, wet soils demanded
a machine with far more flotation capability.”
At 350hp the MT765 was well up to handling the 6-tonne
stabiliser. Cloet developed its own 2-tonne front weight
for the tractor to add extra ballast.
Cloet which hails from Flanders in Western Belgium
was one of the pioneers of soil stabilisation in Benelux.
Originally an agricultural contractor, the company was
asked to do more and more work involving groundworks
and the business developed from there.
In 2000, the firm turned to the world of tracks for its
power source and purchased a 275hp Cat Challenger 55
(predecessor to the Challenger MT range). Coupled with
a Gutzwiller cultivator, the combination spurred a good
period of growth for the company, enabling the team
to handle the worst of ground conditions presented
by Flanders’ road construction and industrial
building projects.
The MT765 from 2003 now has 6000 hours on the
clock without any serious problems despite the extremely
harsh environment in which it has to operate. Not only
are ground conditions difficult but the whole process
creates vast amounts of dust. Added to that, the cement
and quick-lime not only set hard in the ground,
they also set hard on the machines.
Today, the firm runs a fleet of four Challenger MT
tracked machines. The latest model - in the shape of
a brand-new MT765C – arrived in July.
90% of Belgium is covered with sand or heavy clay
and, as a result, soil stabilisation has become
increasingly popular. In addition, legislation requires
all transported soil to be analysed for pollutants –
every cubic metre has to be investigated. Thus, it has
become more cost-effective to keep soil on site and
find a way to make better use of it.
Cloet employs a mixture of quick-lime and cement to
compact and stabilise the soil. “We initially started out
using a 240hp wheeled tractor in combination with a
2.5 m-width towed stabiliser,” says Director of the firm,
Some idea of the managerial skills needed to
orchestrate such a big broadacre winter crop
programme are quickly realised when Trystan Joyce
reveals the property’s Challenger tractors, together with
their trucks, 4WD pick-ups and sprayers, use about
10,000 litres (2200 gallons) of fuel on a daily basis.
On top of that, a steady flow of liquid fertiliser, seed
and chemicals must be on hand to ensure each driver
and his planting rig spend no more than an hour
undertaking the necessary “top-ups” at the end
of their 12-hour shifts.
The superior flotation of Challenger tracked tractors is
proving a boon to a Belgium-based company
specialising in soil stabilisation.
Trystan Joyce: “With all six machines working round the clock, we are averaging about
1200 ha/day.”
The family’s winter cropping programme is some
20,200 ha (50,000 acres) up on last year following the
recent purchase of another property. As a result, the
Joyce family must ensure their investment in each
tractor/planting rig combination, which also includes
their matching DBS planting bars and Bourgault air
seeder bins, earn their keep.
Trystan Joyce concedes it’s a “big job” to manage the
property’s work load at such a busy time of the year.
Close liaison with his farm managers looks to be the
key with decisions as to whether to operate all six
Job well done as three of the Joyce family’s six-strong Challenger fleet ‘rest up’ between shifts.
tractors and seeders in pairs, or reposition them on an
adjacent property, hinging largely on weather/soil
conditions at each site.
“You need to be flexible with your planning, and also
your communications,” Trystan remarks.
The family say they opted for big air seeder bins to help
limit down-time when filling up with seed and fertiliser
at the end of each shift. They operate a min-till approach
to their cropping programmes using knife-style points
spaced across all 18-metres (60ft) of each planting bar.
Asked if he ever got behind the wheel of any of the
property’s Challenger fleet, Trystan said “only
occasionally” as the drivers “just love them,” adding
they were easy to drive, plus were very comfortable.
All commented on the “good fuel economy” associated
with the Challenger fleet which was “going very well”
as the season progressed.
“Every machine is a little bit different but they are all
pretty consistent so we’re happy with them,” Trystan
Joyce said. The thinking is the Challengers probably
won’t be traded in for some ten years. “At the end of the
day we haven’t had any problems and have been getting
a pretty good run out of them - so we’ll stick with them,”
Trystan added.
Reflecting continued growth, two more Challenger
MT765B models were added to the Cloet fleet in 2006
and 2008. The arrival of the new MT765C signals
retirement for the original nine-year-old Cat Challenger 55
– the machine which kick-started Cloet’s tracked success
story. “Although it means saying goodbye to the Cat 55,
our fleet of four MT765 models will give us the
opportunity to handle any job,” says Diederik.
“The machines have proven reliable and durable with
excellent output even under the worst conditions,” he
comments. “From the big comfortable cab, the driver is
in complete control. The tractor and stabiliser make a
good team, producing top quality results coupled with
economical fuel consumption and cost of ownership.”
FIRM FOUNDATIONS
For the record, the Joyce family invested in three
tracked MT855 tractors a few years ago, augmenting
them with three more of the B series machines
more recently.
“They appealed because they are more powerful,
plus the tracks deliver less slippage which translates
to better fuel economy,” Trystan said.
“We need to operate at speeds as low as 500-550 m/hr,”
explains Diederik. “Getting the right mix is vital – every
soil particle has to come into contact with the cement or
quick-lime. The aim is to ensure the soil remains in the
stabiliser for three complete cycles of the mixing rotor. It
has to be done at the correct speed.”
BUILDING ON
“Yes, there’s a real sense of urgency in the air,”
Trystan Joyce remarked. “With all six machines working
round-the-clock, we are averaging about 1200 ha/day.
Once we start, we try not to stop because the teams like
to stick to their shift routines.”
The latest additions to their burgeoning ‘all-yellow’
line-up are fitted with Caterpillar’s latest ACERT Tier 3
diesel engines which pump out some 460hp with an
available power boost to 497hp.
A Challenger MT765 with creeper gearbox and 30 inch
Extreme Application tracks - purchased from dealer
Mechatrac in the Netherlands - was Cloet’s next big
investment together with a big Gutzwiller GM 250
stabiliser.
In soil stabilisation, getting the right mix is
vital. Every soil particle has to come into
contact with the cement or quick-lime and
therefore, slow creep speeds are essential.
16 www.challenger-ag.com
www.challenger-ag.com 17
Have you ever borrowed something and liked it so much you didn’t want to give it back? It happened twice with a collective farm in Czech Republic –
both times with Challenger equipment. Pavel Pánek reports.
New machines up work rates
and productivity
The first Challenger machine to attract the attention of
Jan Herzog, Vice-Chairman of the collective farm in
Librantice, Czech Republic was a 315hp 665B tractor.
“We were originally looking for a 240hp model and
asked around a few dealers to see what was available,”
he recalls.
Challenger dealer Phoenix-Zeppelin was quick to react
and offered the loan of a demo tractor for a week. “They
brought us a more muscular tractor and when we saw
the power it had to let us work deep down, we decided
to keep it. And we were smart to do that. You need a
certain amount in reserve,” adds Jan. After the week was
up, the collective agreed a leasing deal on the tractor.
A year later a similar thing happened with a Challenger
654 combine. The farm borrowed it for the 2008 harvest
and eventually bought it with a loan backed by PGRLF
(a farming and forestry guarantee fund).
The farm grows a mixture of crops – wheat, rape, maize
and clover - which is where the 654’s versatility comes
into its own. “With our land area (700 ha), a machine
like this is an investment for six to eight years,” explains
Librantice’s Chairman Miroslav Malík.
Cost-effective operation from 665B
After just over a year on the Librantice farm, the 665B
tractor had completed 500 hours – the vast majority
hitched to a Kuhn Discover disc plough, a Horsch
Terrano cultivator and a Horsch Sprinter seed drill.
All these implements are 4m wide but in future, the
farm plans to switch to bigger 6m versions. “The
stronger 665B tractor means we can work to lower
depths and thanks to that we’ve eliminated most of the
traditional ploughing operation,” says Miroslav Malík.
“We’ve got heavy soil that has to be worked at optimum
moisture levels. Four or five years ago, we ploughed it
all and if we didn’t get to it at the right time, soil
preparation was very difficult and demanding. At times,
it meant we would have to go into the field four or five
times before sowing. Now, new implements integrated
with a powerful tractor have saved on expense and
increased our work productivity.”
A Challenger 665B with a four-meter Kuhn plough prepares the soil.
Prior to the arrival of the Challenger 665B, two 180hp
tractors carried out cultivation with five-chisel ploughs.
Each rig ploughed 10 ha/day and consumed roughly
40 litres of fuel per hectare. To that can be added the
wages of two drivers plus repair expenses. The reliable
MT665B can now handle 30 ha/day by itself and
uses an average of 12-14 litres/ha. In the heaviest
soil, working at a depth of 25 cm, this rises to
16-18 litres/ha. When sowing, the tractor can happily
complete 60 ha/day and runs on just 5.5 litres/ha.
management system, electronic spool valve and linkage
control and implement/driver/field memory.
Jan Herzog is a real technophile who enjoys working
with the machines and uncovering their potential.
For him, another good source of savings from the 665B
is its TechStar continuously variable transmission and
hydraulic unit. “Each has its own oil circuit which allows
a longer service interval,” he remarks. “You also have to
know how to use the tractor’s electronics – every button
in the cab saves fuel.”
654 combine is fast, reliable and
easy to maintain
The tractor’s electronic wizardry includes the ability to
program different engine speeds, a headland
Two digital panels show precise data on work completed. The cab
provides plenty of space and comfort in a quiet work environment.
“This is a real limo,” Jan enthuses. “It’s got CVT
transmission, an air-conditioned cab with pneumatic
suspension and low noise levels – I’ve never
experienced such quiet in any other tractor cab. What’s
more, it’s balanced front to back. We don’t need to add
weights because, even with a heavy implement on the
back, its wheels keep solidly on the ground.”
Librantice’s Challenger 654 combine replaced two
ageing competitor machines. “We were satisfied with
them but they had served us for more than 30 years and
the parts were getting to be more expensive than the
machines were worth,” remarks Miroslav Malik. “We
got the new combine mainly to save on labour. The new
machine took the place of both the old combines and
harvests even more. Before, we had two combine
operators and two trailers. Now we need only one
combine driver and one trailer.”
Once again, it was Jan Herzog behind the wheel of the
combine during harvest. Equipped with a 6.7m-wide
PowerFlow table he explains that the 654 handles
around 40 ha of rape in an average 12-hour shift.
In maize, fitted with a six-row Geringhoff header,
the combine averaged 34 ha in 12 hours. Significant
fuel savings have been recorded compared to the
old regime. For example, when harvesting wheat,
the previous combine used around 20 litres/ha whilst
the Challenger consumes only 12-13.
The complete package of features on the 378hp 654 is
designed to make even the longest harvesting day seem
short. These include PowerFlow table fitted as standard,
8-straw walker design, high-inertia 1680 mm-wide x
600 mm-diameter threshing cylinder, highly permeable
concave, Twin Speed Rotary Separator, cascade cleaning
system and min-till chopper. A high specification cab
with excellent driving position and advanced control and
monitoring systems all help to sustain productivity.
feed irrespective of crop type and condition. This table
proved a big plus for Librantice enabling high
performance even in badly-laid crop.
At the end of the harvest season, Jan was full of
praise for the machine’s speed, reliability and easy
maintenance. As for its working environment, he
rates it similar to the 665B – amazing comfort in
a quiet cab.
But there was still one more economic motivator
behind the purchase of the new Challenger combine.
“We want to get quality food-grade wheat,” remarks
Miroslav Malík. “For that reason we have to harvest
at optimum ripeness. We’ve got a week for that and
if we don’t make it, and it rains on the crop we can
kiss that quality good-bye.” With the 654’s reliability,
it makes it much more likely that they can harvest
the quality they are after.
PowerFlow tables are the best in the business and are
equipped with powered belts to ensure a constant, even
The Challenger combine is highly versatile – the Librantice farm
harvests wheat, rape, clover seed and maize. (Photo Radim Baudyš)
The combine is equipped with a Geringhoff ROTA-DISC header for
harvesting maize.(Photo Radim Baudyš)
18 www.challenger-ag.com
www.challenger-ag.com 19
NEWS
Celebrations for
100 th tractors
Vrooom!
Challenger joins
the dirt riders
Two Challenger dealers in Italy and the UK
celebrated the sales of their 100th tracked tractor
this year.
In the UK, Challenger dealer Chandlers staged a
celebration event for its customers to mark the
launch of the new ‘C’ Series and a number of key
landmark events. The first award of the evening went
to customer Ian Baker from M Baker (Produce) Ltd
who bought Chandlers’ first Challenger tracked
tractor in 2002 and the 100th in November 2008.
Next up was the award for the customer with the
largest number of MT tractors in the UK which was
presented to Robin Hancox of Lincs Field Products
Ltd. His company has owned many Challenger MT
series models over the years and the current fleet
includes six tracked machines – a grand total of
2130 Challenger horsepower!
The last two awards of the evening went to
Chandlers themselves. The Challenger UK Dealer of
the Year prize was presented by Martin Hamer,
Manager National Sales, Challenger to Clive Barber,
Challenger Specialist for Chandlers. And, last, but
certainly not least, David Sleath, AGCO Director,
Sales and Country Manager UK and Ireland,
presented Gavin Pell, Chandlers Agricultural Dealer
Principal, with the AGCO 5-Star dealer standard.
Team Challenger: Back row: Left to right
Manfred Spendier, Roxanna Jandaur and
Arsim Jakupi. In front: Erich Urban, General
Manager of AgroExpert.
Although more used to appearing on tracks or four
wheels, the Challenger brand is now starring on two
wheels thanks to the sponsorship of a Motocross racing
team in Romania.
In fact, make that six wheels, as Challenger’s familiar
yellow and black colours feature on the leathers of three
race riders and their motor bikes.
Charles Smith, Managing Director
Challenger Europe, Africa and Middle East
presents Ian Baker with a memento to mark
his purchase of the 100th Challenger tracked
tractor to be sold by dealer Chandlers in
the UK.
AGCO Finance has launched a new retail finance
programme for the Challenger brand in Russia.
Challenger brand – equipment that is ideally-suited to
the broad-acre operations in this territory.”
“The introduction of retail finance packages through
AGCO Finance has been one of our pivotal goals,”
explains Eric Raby, AGCO Vice President, Sales and
Marketing EEA.
The programme is being jointly administered by one of
AGCO’s key financial partners, De Lage Landen Leasing
Russia. Founded in 1969 as a Netherlands-based
leasing company, De Lage Landen has become a global
provider of leasing, business and consumer finance
solutions. De Lage Landen is a wholly owned
subsidiary of global banking giant, Rabobank.
“There remains a huge demand for Western-built farm
equipment in the Russian farming sector,” Eric
continues. “We are delighted to offer this new finance
scheme as a means for operators to utilise the
“The huge grain fields of Kansas were spectacular
and it was good to hear about agriculture in the
States straight from owners and operators who live
and breathe the business every day,” says Roel
Franssen, Challenger Marketing Promotions
Manager, who helped organise the event. “It was a
really interesting and informative trip which gave a
real insight into farming in North America.”
Left, Vittorio Venditti with Giovanni Giambi,
the owner of the 100th Challenger tracked
tractor sold by Reni. To mark the sale,
the 100th machine was painted in
silver livery.
Retail finance scheme in Russia
Phase one of the AGCO Finance programme offers
customers of Challenger equipment flexible leasing
packages based on two- to five-year contract periods.
Taking in a total of eight different states, a group of
Challenger customers from Europe visited the
United States in June for a study trip.
The trip included tours of AGCO plants in Jackson,
Minnesota, where Challenger tracked tractors,
RoGators and TerraGators are made; the Great
Plains manufacturing facility in Kansas which
makes seed drills and the Hesston plant, also in
Kansas, which produces Challenger harvesting
equipment. Further highlights of the packed
agenda were visits to a wide variety of farms
and agri-businesses.
In Italy, more than 100 people gathered together in
a double celebration to mark the 100th Challenger
tracked tractor sale by dealer, Reni and the company’s
tenth anniversary distributing the yellow line.
Reni was the first dealer in Europe to be appointed
to sell the Challenger MT700 and MT800 Series
under the AGCO umbrella. The 100th Reni
Challenger MT tractor went to Giovanni Giambi
of Agrisfera in Ravenna. He’s a big Challenger fan
and already runs three other MT units.
Insight into US
agri-business
The programme will include flexibility in terms of rates
of interest, currency preference and term of contract,
allowing each customer the ability to tailor the finance
scheme to the particular needs and cash-flow
requirements of their operations.
Backed by Challenger’s Romanian distributor,
AgroExpert, the intrepid riders are Manfred Spendier,
Arsim Jakupi and Roxana Jandaur. Manfred (32)
competes in the National EnduroCross Championship/
Professional Class and National Motocross
Championship MX II/Professional Class. Arsim (30)
and Roxana (27) also participate in the latter
Championship with Arsim competing in the
Professional Class and Roxana in the Amateur Class.
Erich Urban, General Manager of AgroExpert, is himself
a keen off-road motorcycling enthusiast. “Motocross
MX II involves racing on dirt tracks on motor bikes up
to 250 cc,” he explains. “The riders need to be super-fit
to be able to keep control of their 110 kg bikes whilst
maintaining top speed throughout the two 30-minute
races in which they compete on a race day. It’s a really
exciting spectator sport full of thrills and spills.”
Their home MotoCross Club is located near Bucharest
- not far from one of AgroExpert’s dealerships and a Challenger tractor is frequently on duty to
level the race track.
“We looking forward to a great season’s racing and hope
to be able to report some victories for our team in the
coming months,” says Erich.
Stateside: The Challenger group pose
for a souvenir picture at AGCO’s Jackson
manufacturing plant – just one of the stops
in the packed itinerary of a recent study trip
to the United States.
Such was the interest in the equipment at the Mongolia Field Day that
some deals were done on the spot.
Seeing is believing
The first-ever Challenger Field Day to take place in
Mongolia drew over 200 visitors and included a
Member of Parliament as a guest speaker.
live in the capital – Ulaan-Batoor - so there are only
1.6 people per km2. There are many opportunities for
agricultural expansion.”
The event was staged by Wagner Asia Equipment LLC,
Challenger distributor for this remote territory. In this
part of the world, there is a saying which goes: ‘It is
better to see once than to hear 100 times’ - hence
Wagner’s determination to put on a powerful
demonstration of the new equipment.
After a welcome by John Karlsen, General Director of
Wagner Asia Equipment, the field day included
presentations and demonstrations of Challenger
machines. Such was the interest that a number of deals
were made there and then in the field.
“Mongolia covers 1565 thousand km2, making it the
19th largest country in the world,” says Challenger
Sales Engineer – Eastern Europe, Vlad Khvoya.
“However, the population is only 2.6 million and half
Speaking at the event, the local MP announced plans for
the development of the agricultural sector. This would
include an increase in arable land of up to 1 million ha
and the resumption of Mongolia’s position as an
exporter of hard red spring wheat.
Reap just what you sow!
Giant air seeder rig gets to work
When you’ve got 50,000 ha to plant you need a big sowing rig!
Pictured in Australia, this 570hp Challenger MT875B is pulling a total of 36.6 m
of air seeder comprising two 18.3 m models towed off an ‘A’ frame. Travelling at
8.5 km/h the tractor is hauling a massive 50 tonnes of steel, seed and fertiliser.
The customer from Moree, New South Wales runs five MT875B models in his
fleet and has just added a new MT875C.
20 www.challenger-ag.com
Agrovet Farm SRL in Romania opted for a trio of Challenger machines to take on its key
cultivation, seeding, spraying, fertilising and harvesting duties.
Three-way power
partnership takes
on multi farm tasks
Together with a Challenger MT575B,
a 680 rotary combine and MT765B are
providing high-capacity work outputs for
Agrovet in Romania.
speed, we regularly sow 100 ha. Cultivation work
is carried out with a 7.5-metre Horsch Tiger 8 LT
with which we expect to complete 80 ha working at
8-10 km/h during the shift.”
In addition, the 320hp tracked tractor does duty during
the harvest, loading and unloading grain with a big
22,500-litre capacity Cestari Chaser Bin.
“In all its jobs, the MT765B gives us top pulling
performance coupled with fuel efficiency as well
as low soil compaction,” says Professor Berca.
After planting and cultivation duties, during harvest the MT765B turns its hand to grain handling,
working with a 22,500-litre capacity Cestari Chaser Bin.
An MT765B tracked tractor, MT575B TechStar wheeled
tractor and 680B rotary combine have been hard at
work in their first year on the 1700 ha Agrovet Farm
in Alexandria, Romania.
Located some 100 km south-west of Bucharest, this
region of Romania benefits from the renowned rich
Black Chernozem soils. It’s also a very dry area with
only 500 mm of annual rainfall. The weather divides
abruptly between cold, wet winters and hot dry
summers. Most of the farming activity is carried out on
mega-farms between 1000 and 10,000 ha where cereals
– barley, wheat, oilseed rape, sunflower and maize –
account for the lion’s share of output. Only 10% of the
land is cultivated by small farmers who tend to focus
more on vegetable crops.
“At Agrovet, 650 ha is down to the production of seed
including winter wheat, winter barley and peas,” says
Univ.Prof. Dr Mihai Berca, shareholder and
administrator. “A further 500 ha is dedicated to oil-seed
rape and 550 ha to milling wheat. We also grow some
sunflower and maize.”
“The MT765B works around 600 hours a year planting
and cultivating,” he continues. “Equipped with an
8-metre Horsch Sprinter drill with integrated fertiliser
system, we use it for seeding all our cereals and
rapeseed. In a 12-hour shift at 12-14 km/h forward
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English
Clocking up some 900 hours a year, for the majority
of its time the 190hp MT575 TechStar is engaged in
spraying with a Hardi Commander 44001 24-metre
boom Twin Force sprayer and fertilising with a Rauch
Axis 3200-litre spreader. During the harvest, it helps
out with grain transport, hauling a Brantner trailer train.
With its combination of TechStar Continuously
Variable Transmission, suspended front axle and
super-comfort cab plus joystick control of the sprayer,
Agrovet feels that in their spraying operations, the
MT575B gives a performance close to that of a
self-propelled sprayer model.
The 680B Rotary combine is the latest machine to
arrive at the Agrovet farm and harvests around 1000 ha
a season. “We chose the Rotary model because of its
gentle grain handling which is important for our
production of seeds where minimal damage to crop is
crucial to ensure future healthy plant growth,” explains
Eng. Thomas Ulm, shareholder and administrator.
In purchasing the three Challenger machines, Agrovet
was looking for absolute top performance during the
main working periods. Being all the same brand, this
also brings service advantages. “The Challenger
importer in Romania, AgroExpert was another key
reason for us selecting Challenger,” adds Thomas.
“Their head office and workshop is located on the
outskirts of Bucharest and only 100 km away from
the Agrovet estate – they provide high levels of
Western-style service.”