Topcon Agriculture showcased a suite of new technology at SIMA 2017, including its X35 console, AES 35 electric steering subsystem and Athene ECU for spreader control.

Laforge introduces its EZ Ballast product, allowing operators to add about 3,400 pounds of tractor weight in seconds without having to get out of the cab. Compatible with John Deere 7R series tractors, the unique system attaches to the bottom of the machine with the push of a button and does not reduce ground clearance. “It’s a lot easier than adding wheel weights and we see more farmers in North America interested in accurately ballasting tractors if they are moving from a haying or mowing to a tillage operation where they need to add some weight,” says Lars Paulsson.

Receiving one of SIMA’s Gold Medals for innovation, Michelin launched its EvoBib 2-in-1 tire, which adjusts pressure for road and field conditions with a unique tread pattern. At psi of 17 or less in the field, tread contact increases to reduce soil compaction, while increasing traction. At higher tire pressures of 29 psi or more, only the central band of the tire contacts the road, reducing vibration. “It’s a totally new concept which can save more than 500 gallons of fuel per year and increase field traction by 30%, which can save 20 horsepower,” says Emanuel Ladent, president of Michelin's agricultural division, who added that the tire is expected to be launched commercially by the end of 2017.

One of two SIMA Gold Medal recipients, Trelleborg launched its VIP (variable inflation pressure) tire system, capable of automatically increasing and reducing pressure based on load weight. The system, initially tested in Fendt combines, features a compressor and enclosed sensing control unit in the axle that adjusts tire inflation to reduce compaction by about 10% and increase crop yield by about 5%, according to Lorenzo Ciferri, marketing director for Trelleborg. The system is still in the prototype stage and being field-tested on wheat, Ciferri says.

Väderstad debuts its Tempo L precision planter, available in 12 or 16 rows and capable of planting speeds of up to 12 mph. The planter has a 1,300 gallon granulated fertilizer tank and row units feature versatile 100-liter tanks for seeding a variety of crops including corn, cotton or sugarbeets. The system can be controlled by a tablet in the tractor cab, run through the company’s E-Services control center. The system allows for wireless control of seeding population, depth control and down pressure. “Also new on this model is the hydraulic weight transfer that can add and take off pressure,” says Philip Westman, sales manager for Eastern Europe, who added that the planter would be introduced to the Canadian market in spring 2017.