Eima 2024, the second-largest mechanization fair in Europe, showcases many innovations
This photo series highlights 15 new developments that Future Farming discovered at the Italian trade fair Eima in Bologna. These innovations range from an electric power harrow and a high-tech planting machine to new tracks and specialty tires.
Future Farming spotted this new Solis narrow-track tractor at Eima 2024. With this tractor, the Indian manufacturer Solis is entering the professional narrow-track segment. The 90 HP N90 tractor, featuring a stylish new cabin, was launched with great fanfare on the first day of the exhibition. – Photos: Bas van Hattum
This VF tire from BKT is officially called the Agrimax Pro Harvest and features the size code VF 1000/55 R32 CFO on its sidewall. The designation CFO (Cyclic Field Operation) indicates that the tire is designed for cyclic loads, such as during harvesting or use with manure vehicles, where the load repeatedly shifts between full and empty. This tire serves as an alternative to the well-known 1050/50 R32, a common wide tire for manure vehicles.
The Italian machinery manufacturer Alpego has unveiled a concept model of an electric-powered rotary harrow. While there are currently no plans for series production or sales, Alpego aims to be prepared as more tractor manufacturers introduce electric connections for implements. This rotary harrow is 3 meters wide and equipped with five electric motors, each driving two rotors via its own planetary gear system. The power requirement ranges from 50 to 80 kW, highlighting its suitability for future electrified agricultural machinery setups.
At the center of the Italian manufacturer Antonio Carraro’s stand is the SR-e concept tractor, a 100% electric compact tractor. The electric CVT has its own motor with a maximum output of 50 kW, while the motor powering the PTO can deliver up to 35 kW. Additionally, the rear plug-in connections provide up to 10 kW for operating implements. This concept tractor highlights Antonio Carraro’s innovation in the realm of fully electric agricultural machinery.
Not revolutionary, but certainly an unusual sight is this Italian Nardi 8-furrow reversible plow equipped with plastic wear plates on each moldboard. The black plastic plates are said to release heavy, sticky soil better. They also reportedly wear out less quickly in rocky conditions. The model shown is the Nardi Ergon fe/8tt. Each moldboard weighs 15 kilograms less but is roughly 40 to 50% more expensive than the steel version. The manufacturer does not disclose the exact cost of the Nardi plow with plastic moldboards.
The Italian company ROC, now 80% owned by the Japanese manufacturer Kubota, has unveiled a new RT880 belt rake at Eima 2024. Each element features three cam tracks to guide the pickup mechanism. Why three? ROC claims this design ensures the longest lifespan, as the previous version with two cam tracks per element proved to be less durable. The RT880 has a starting price of €105,000. ROC also introduced a smaller front-mounted belt rake, the RS380, with prices starting at €28,000. This innovation highlights ROC’s commitment to durability and efficiency in raking technology.
It took some time, but Trelleborg has finally entered the world of rubber tracks. At Eima 2024, the tire manufacturer unveiled its first track system to the public. Named the ART1000—short for Agri Rubber Track—the track measures 63.5 centimeters in width and 663 centimeters in length. This size is among the most popular for track undercarriages on Claas combines, marking a significant step for Trelleborg in expanding its product range for agricultural machinery.
The American precision farming manufacturer Ag Leader has introduced new screens for its GPS applications. The new InCommand Go screen is significantly larger at 16 inches and features enhanced connectivity, with built-in WiFi and modem. According to the manufacturer, this terminal has the fastest startup time on the market, even with WiFi or modem functionality enabled. Ag Leader also offers a smaller 10-inch version. Both screens are designed with an intuitive interface, featuring collapsible and expandable tabs for easy navigation. The gross price for the 16-inch version is approximately $6,000 (€5,650), while the 10-inch version is priced at $4,000 (€3,766).
The Belgian company AgriPlanter has unveiled a 6-row planting machine capable of planting virtually any type of seedling from trays. The machine boasts an impressive planting speed of 14,000 to 15,000 plants per row per hour and is compatible with over 100 different tray types. According to AgriPlanter, even delicate seedlings such as oregano or Brussels sprouts are handled with ease. The first machines are already operational in the Netherlands. The price for this high-performance planting machine is approximately €400,000, reflecting its advanced capabilities and versatility.
The Italian company Aries showcased a telescopic front loader with an extension function. Designed for tractors ranging from 80 to 120 HP, this loader can reach a maximum height of 4.92 meters when fully extended. Depending on the load position—whether in a bucket or on pallet forks—it can lift between 1,200 and 2,600 kg. Notably, Aries does not sell these loaders directly to end customers but primarily manufactures them for tractor brands such as Case IH and Steyr.
Plow manufacturer Lemken has introduced the new Diamant 18 semi-mounted reversible plow, which replaces the current Diamant 16 model. Featuring 5 to 8 furrows and a robust 180 x 180 x 12.5 mm box frame, the Diamant 18 is specifically designed for large tractors with up to 650 HP and demanding working conditions. The most significant improvement is the rear-mounted support wheel, which Lemken claims reduces stress on the main frame, enhancing durability and performance in the field.
Neomach Nova Minishovels from Italy. A previously unseen contender has emerged as a third alternative to the Avant and MultiOne minishovels: the Nova series, manufactured by the Italian company Neomach. These compact articulated loaders feature a cabin mounted directly on the front frame, enhancing maneuverability and ease of use. Neomach produces three models in the Nova series: X20 (smallest), X30 and X40.
Vredestein has introduced the Traxion CropCare, its first series of VF (Very-High Flexion) row crop tires designed for trailed and self-propelled sprayers. This marks the company’s initial venture into manufacturing row crop tires. The series currently includes two sizes: VF 380/90 R46 and VF 380/105 R50, with availability expected in the first quarter of 2025.
At Eima 2024, the Indian manufacturer BKT introduced a new line of VF row crop tires: the Agrimax Procrop. These durable tires are specifically designed for self-propelled machines such as sprayers and harvesters. The Agrimax Procrop features slightly more steel reinforcement than standard row crop tires, enhancing durability. It also has a continuous central tread rib, providing greater comfort during transport. Additionally, the tire is designed to shed clay soil more effectively, helping to keep roads cleaner. Initially, the line includes four sizes, all 270/95, for rims of 32, 36, 38, and 48 inches. By late 2025, four to five additional sizes will be introduced, including wider and taller options for rims up to 54 inches.
