Farming Monthly National January 2015 | Page 30

| LAMMA Kubota targets new market with launch of landmark M7001 model Japanese manufacturer, Kubota, is set to exhibit its new M7001 tractor at LAMMA 2015 in January, kicking off what’s set to be a busy year of new product launches for the company. he new higher horsepower agricultural tractor will to be released to market in June 2015, following significant developments to place this tractor into the mainstream agricultural market, with the strength and ability to carry out a wide range of tasks from ploughing, cultivating and drilling duties, on both mixed and arable farms. The M7001 is Kubota’s most powerful and high-tech tractor manufactured to date, fulfilling the stringent requirements of large-scale upland farming across the European and North American agricultural markets. Available in three models - 130, 150 and 170hp - the series will be available in a choice of a 24x24 powershift or full CVT transmission, suitable for use across a diverse variety of agricultural applications. Other options include a 24-speed semipowershift or the Kubota K-VT transmissions; an auto function and custom setting for fieldwork; as well as the incorporation of a 12” touchscreen, specially programmed to handle the tractor’s main functions including transmission, linkage and hydraulic settings. The M7001’s four-pillar design provides excellent driver visibility and the opening roof window allows the operator a full view of loader attachments when at full height. Built at Kubota’s new factory near Dunkirk in France, the M7001 range integrates a fourcylinder engine with full tier 4 compliance, including DPF and SCR Technology to clean up emissions - the result being a more environmentally friendly tractor. Kubota is targeting sales figures of 3,000 by 2017 as part of its plan to strengthen its position T 30 | Farming Monthly | January 2015 within the agricultural tractor market. Plans are also afoot to develop and extend its existing range of agricultural tractors. Two new models have also been announced in the M-GX range – the M100GX-II and M128GX-II - joining the current line up to increase the range to four models: the M100GX, M110GX, M128GX and the M135GX. Adrian Langmead, Kubota Tractor and Groundcare Business Development Manager, commented on plans for the year ahead: “We have some really exciting launches in the pipeline for 2015 and it’s fantastic to finally be able to reveal the new M7001 tractor, a model which is set to be a game changer for Kubota. “We have always excelled in developing new machinery, and our commitment to extend our offering into areas that we have not always specialised in is paramount to our progress as a company.” Kubota’s Kubota Care package will also be another top priority for 2015. The extended warranty package was first launched in 2014 to provide its customers with a vital five-year after sales service package and it remains a key focus for the company this year. The scheme is eligible to all new buyers of our M Series range of tractors, and customers can specify the service hour usage most appropriate to them across the 5-year term, whether that be 2000, 3000, 4000, or 5000 hours. LAMMA 2015 is also being used as a platform to showcase the latest addition to Kubota’s much praised utility vehicle range – the RTV-X900. Featuring a powerful 21.6HP 3, cylinder liquid cooled diesel engine, the new larger model improves on the reliable and robust performance of its predecessors. Fitted with a high rigidity frame to help isolate passengers from noise and vibrations, the RTV-X900 is capable of handing loads of up to 500kgs in the cargo bed and a further towing capacity of 1000kgs. Its advanced additional breaking power ensures controlled driving on steep descents and across challenging terrain. Some of the most significant changes have been made inside of the cab, where 60:40 split bench seating, power steering, under seat storage compartments and a digital metre cluster have all been incorporated, alongside a horizontal opening front window. Another key improvement on the RTV-X900 over its predecessor model, the RTV900, is its fully independent suspension system. Height adjustable front and rear suspension ensures the correct vehicle height is maintained, depending on load, allowing for a safe and comfortable ride. Compact tractors will be another subject focus at LAMMA, with two new ranges showcased – STW and B50. The Kubota team will be on hand to discuss the recently launched (December 2014) STW Series, comprising of the STW34, STW37 and STW40 models along with an insight into Kubota’s 21-31HP B50 compact series, launched summer 2014. For more information on Kubota and its extensive range of solutions for the groundcare and agriculture sectors visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk