The Braud 8.50L can empty directly into trailers up to 3m high, significantly reducing downtime and maximising each harvesting shift.(Image credit: New Holland)

New Holland has expanded its specialist vineyard machinery line-up with the introduction of the Braud 8.50L, a compact yet incredibly powerful grape harvester designed to transform productivity in large commercial vineyards.

First launched in 2024 and showcased at Nampo Cape in Bredasdorp, this next-generation machine blends efficiency, precision, and grape-friendly technology making it one of the most exciting new arrivals in modern viticulture.

Although built for extensive vineyard operations, the Braud 8.50L remains agile. Its shorter frame allows for swift, confident turning at the end of tight rows—an essential feature for high-density vineyards looking to save time without compromising careful handling of vines and fruit. New Holland’s product marketing specialist, Derrick Coetzee, emphasised the model’s clever balance of strength and practicality, noting its versatile performance even in challenging terrain.

“With an overall length of just 5m and a powerful 144hp engine, the Braud 8.50L is both compact and capable. Farmers will notice quicker turnaround times, even in tough terrain.”

The machine’s upgraded engine provides an additional 16hp compared with previous versions, while the re-engineered transmission enhances smooth movement over uneven ground. These improvements, combined with reduced mechanical strain, result in faster harvesting cycles and lower long-term maintenance costs key considerations for vineyard owners managing tight seasonal windows.

A standout productivity booster is the 3 600ℓ hopper, which enables longer harvesting runs between offloading stops. The Braud 8.50L can empty directly into trailers up to 3m high, significantly reducing downtime and maximising each harvesting shift.

But where the machine truly shines is in its gentle grape-handling technology, a critical factor for winemakers prioritising quality. The adjustable Shaking Dynamic Control system allows operators to fine-tune harvesting intensity from the cab to suit real-time vineyard conditions.

“This allows the machine to shake just enough to remove the grapes without damaging the vines or crushing the fruit,” Coetzee said.

Supporting this is New Holland’s renowned Noria basket conveyor system, designed to cradle grapes carefully while maintaining constant contact with the vines ensuring minimal fruit loss and preserving shape and integrity.

“It’s the closest you’ll get to hand-picking, but much faster,” Coetzee explained.

Inside the machine, a destemming rotor, cleaning fan and on-board wash system work together to deliver cleaner grapes and easier maintenance. Meanwhile, the fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine ensures stability on slopes of up to 35°, assisted by automatic height and tilt control and a refined suspension system for smoother travel.

Adding to its advanced design, the harvester features the IntelliView™ IV Plus display, offering enhanced touchscreen functionality and improved visibility for seamless operation.

“The Braud 8.50L gives farmers more power, cleaner fruit, and less downtime,” Coetzee said. “It’s built to deliver results, season after season.”

Vicar sprayers are proving to be a formidable investment for South African farmers striving for smarter. (Image credit: Vicar)

European spraying innovation has taken a bold leap into the South African agriculture sector with the arrival of Vicar mist blower sprayers, a technology reshaping the way growers manage crop protection.

Developed over 40 years ago by Italian engineer Vincenzo Caroli in collaboration with LTS in Germany, this advanced sprayer design has become synonymous with intelligent airflow, high efficiency, and exceptional coverage. Now imported by Ikapa Trading in Grabouw, Vicar sprayers are fast becoming a favourite among farmers seeking smarter, faster, and more precise spraying solutions.

What sets the Vicar system apart is its pioneering radial turbine technology, which independent consultant Mike Heath who has witnessed decades of machinery evolution believes to be a game-changer. Unlike conventional axial flow sprayers that rely on propeller blades and lose speed as air moves through housings and deflectors, Vicar sprayers use a single turbine resembling a water wheel. This turbine sucks air in from both sides and moves it radially at a 90° angle, producing a consistent, high-velocity air stream.

The uniquely designed cast aluminium housing forces air through calibrated outlets only, resulting in a uniform exit speed of 250km/h to 280km/h at 540 PTO. Crucially, this system achieves optimal spray delivery while requiring up to two to three times less air volume than axial flow designs dramatically improving efficiency.

Vicar sprayers are also fitted with 360° rotating spray heads, each equipped with up to eight nozzles that move with the airflow for precise application. Heath explains that this makes every model adaptable: vineyards, orchards, tree crops, flowers, vegetables and dense plantations can all be targeted with outstanding coverage. The Vicar 540 reaches 12m per side and 25m in height, while the Vicar 450 covers 4m per side and up to 15m high ideal for vineyards and orchards. The 456 model enhances multirow spraying for modern high-density crops.

Vicar’s airflow control technology also allows operators to manipulate spray direction and prevent turbulence. Upper outlets can create an “air ceiling” to keep spray low for young crops, while lower outlets deliver targeted protection. With reduced drift up to 90% less environmental pollution, as tested by the Julius Kühn-Institut—Vicar ranks among the few sprayers meeting Germany’s strict regulations.

Heath adds that the sprayers’ ability to work faster at high air speeds means farmers can double their operational pace compared with axial fan sprayers. “Being able to work faster and spray multiple rows is allowing Vicar clients to substitute at least two conventional sprayers with one Vicar sprayer,” he notes.

Built for stability, especially on hilly terrain, Vicar’s trailed models feature double-axle frames, three-point linkage attachment, adjustable wheels and a short-turn system that improves manoeuvrability. Tanks include clean-water reservoirs for easy flushing, reducing contamination risks and enhancing longevity.

Despite being pricier than traditional sprayers, co-owner Neels Thiart says the machines pay for themselves quickly thanks to superior performance and durability. In Europe, their second-hand value remains exceptionally high: “In Europe you are able to sell one of these sprayers second-hand for almost the same price as you bought it,” he says.

With unmatched penetration, reduced drift, precision airflow and long-term value, Vicar sprayers are proving to be a formidable investment for South African farmers striving for smarter, more sustainable crop protection.

Case IH presenting models from the compact Quantum range right through to the powerful Optum.(Image credit: Case IH)

Case IH is set to make a strong impression at Agribex 2025 in Brussels, highlighting its commitment to Belgian farmers with a full display of innovative tractors, advanced precision technology, and next-generation equipment.

Taking place from 3–7 December, the exhibition will see Case IH presenting models from the compact Quantum range right through to the powerful Optum, ensuring every farming sector is represented. Visitors to Hall 6, Stand 6200, will also witness the Belgian debut of the refreshed 100–117hp Farmall C tractors.

The latest Farmall C line-up has been updated with customer-focused features, offering a choice between the familiar 24F/24R ActiveDrive 2 transmission or a new 12F/12R ManualDrive option, equipped with a clutchless electronic power shuttle. For specialist tasks, operators can add eight creep speeds, expanding the range to 20F/20R. Both transmissions now benefit from the ActiveClutch brake-to-clutch system, designed to improve ease of control, especially during intensive loader work. Supporting this, Case IH’s new factory-fitted L635 mechanical self-levelling front loaders provide an impressive 2.0t lift capacity and reach of 3.8m.

A major attraction will be the Puma 185, representing the newly introduced generation of Puma tractors. Featuring contemporary styling, improved front axle suspension and tighter turning capability, it brings enhancements across transmission performance, braking efficiency and rear implement connectivity. The stand will also showcase a Puma 220, equipped with dual narrow wheels, tyres and a central tyre inflation system supplied by Gruva designed specifically for the needs of root crop growers.

Case IH’s presence continues with the compact Farmlift 626 telescopic handler, capable of lifting 2.6t to 6.0m, and the RB456 Rotor Cutter baler, known for producing high-density variable-chamber bales up to 1.65m with either 13 or 25 knives. The brand will also engage visitors through special initiatives. “We’ll also have a special focus for Ladies’ Day on Thursday, December 4,” said Matthias Claerbout, Marketing Manager Benelux for Case IH.

“This initiative underscores our dedication to shaping a future where women in agriculture thrive – empowering them with technology, and opportunities to lead the industry forward. In addition, we are supporting the Workshop Live project from Thomas More school, providing Case IH machines for live workshop activities by students, underlining our belief in the next generation of engineers.”

FPT powers New DEUTZ-FAHR 8 Series TTV with N67 Engine. (Image credit: FTP)

FPT Industrial has strengthened its leadership in the global agricultural machinery market with a major new milestone: the supply of its renowned N67 engine for the newly launched DEUTZ-FAHR 8 Series TTV.

Revealed at Agritechnica 2025, this partnership between FPT - the Iveco Group’s powertrain specialist and SDF, one of Europe’s most respected agricultural machinery manufacturers, marks a significant advancement in next-generation farming technology.

DEUTZ-FAHR, a flagship brand under the SDF umbrella, is known worldwide for precision engineering, premium performance and cutting-edge agricultural solutions. Its latest 8 Series TTV tractor sets a new benchmark in the industry, delivering improved comfort, advanced digital intelligence and powerful, efficient operation tailored for today’s demanding farming environments.

At the core of this high-performance machine lies FPT’s N67 engine, selected for its market-leading power density, exceptional efficiency and proven reliability. Its compact architecture enhances manoeuvrability, while the engine’s seamless integration with the new tractor platform ensures outstanding responsiveness even under the toughest workloads. Compatibility with HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) and an extended 1,000-hour oil change interval reflect FPT’s commitment to sustainability and reduced running costs both key priorities for modern agricultural operations.

In collaboration with SDF, FPT co-developed a structural oil pan and integrated engine management software to meet the precise requirements of the 8 Series TTV, ensuring superior durability and optimised performance. The N67’s six-cylinder configuration and extensive customisation options make it a versatile solution for a wide range of mid-range agricultural applications.
The engine is part of FPT’s acclaimed NEF Series, an industry benchmark for its EGR-free combustion, patented HI-eSCR2 after-treatment technology, and market-leading productivity. Since its debut in 2001, over two million NEF engines have powered tractors, construction machinery, marine vessels and power generation systems - a testament to the brand’s engineering excellence and long-term dependability.

As FPT marks over 100 years of powering agricultural innovation, this partnership further reinforces its status as a preferred global powertrain supplier. The agreement not only celebrates FPT’s heritage but also reflects its commitment to driving the future of sustainable, intelligent agriculture.

“We could not have celebrated Agritechnica in a better way. This new partnership with the DEUTZ-FAHR brand is a clear sign that we are recognized as a strong and reliable partner in the industry,” stated Sylvain Blaise, President of Iveco Group’s Powertrain Business Unit. “As a company, we have always worked with our customers’ needs in mind and with innovation at the core of everything we do… We are confident it will pave the way for future achievements together.”

“To achieve the performance standards we set for this new generation of tractors, we engaged in a strategic co-development partnership with FPT…” added Alessandro Maritano, SDF Chief Commercial Officer.