THE bar has been raised for Australian mowers with the recent launch of the 11.2 metre Krone BiG M450CR self-propelled mower by Kubota Australia.
Unveiled at the 2018 Kubota dealer conference held in Hobart, this model, specifically designed for the Australian and North American markets, is part of the fifth generation BiG M45 series, launched last year and features the widest cut in the range, up over a metre on the 2017 M450CV model.
Kubota, Krone product manager Lars Pasedag said the machine also improves on the flail conditioner released in the previous model.
“We haven’t seen a mower like this in Australia before,” Mr Pasedag said.
“This CR model offers a new super roller conditioner.
“It’s called an M-Roll, as the lug of the roller has two pressure points to give the crop extra crimping while it travels through the roller.
“This process delivers quicker drying time for the crop in the field to get the hay into a bale and safely off the paddock compared to standard roller conditioners.”
In line with upgrades to the 2017 model, the M450CR features a six-cylinder, in-line Liebherr engine with PowerSplit control delivering 335 kilowatts (449 horsepower) of power, with a safe working speed of up to 25 kilometres an hour and a travelling speed of 40km/h.
Kubota said the mower was driven by wheel motors, which allows it to turn through a 50 degree angle, ensuring efficiency in smaller fields.
More than 180 Kubota dealers attended the annual dealer conference.
Kubota, general manager sales and marketing Malcolm Owens said Kubota was the leading supplier of agriculture, construction and power equipment.
“This year, for the first time, we will exceed $500 million in sales,” Mr Owens said.
“We’re constructing more homes, building more roads, supporting more farms and enhancing more lives than ever before.
“To stay on top, we must embrace change, and ensure our products, marketing and network stays ahead of a changing Australia.”
Apart from the Krone BiG mower, new products included the M5 tractor series and Kubota implements and garden care power tools, such as folding power harrows, brush-cutters, hedge-trimmers and leaf-blowers.
The company also launched the RC3715 rotary cutter, built by Land Pride.
Kubota, senior product manager (Land Pride) Mike Hilleard said the new model complemented Kubota’s existing product range.
“Kubota Australia is the first company outside of North America to ensure our products are aligned by guaranteeing our implements are compatible with our tractors,” Mr Hilleard said.
“This is part of the progression of our For Earth, For Life philosophy.
“It’s something that sets Kubota Australia apart, making us a valuable, whole-line supplier to our customers.”
