Agritechnica 2015 in a day!

Hannover Venue

They said it couldn’t be done – but I had a really good go trying! As Europe’s biggest agricultural machinery exhibition in Hannover (27 halls) I visited last Thursday with a plan, which after two hours went somewhat ‘off plan’ with the overwhelming array of new machinery distractions.

Greeted by Claas on arrival their precision farming focus and massive combine set the scene for what’s to come. Every ag machinery manufacturer is in attendance – some completely taking over their own halls like Agco others juxting for position to grab the attention of half a million farmers visiting.

3D Tractor launch

There were some interesting highlights including 3D launch (including 3D glasses) of the  McCormick  new 300hp X8 range, next to Kubota’s biggest stand yet with the full ag line up on display. The Zetor stand was well worth a look including their new sleeker tractor designs by Ferrari designer Pininfarina was well worth a visit and notably their 2016 calendar was in serious demand!

It was great to meet up with some other UK representatives including, JCB, Kuhn, Horsch amongst others. You couldn’t fail to be impressed by Fendt’s 1000 Vario on display which at one point was 8 deep with visitors taking photos which was accompanied by exclusive hospitality area with free beer and a live band with dancers in a crammed hall.

Fendt

A glass of free milk on Lely’s massive stand, whilst watching a overhead video offered a welcome  break before meeting some old boys from Norfolk on a ‘shopping trip’ before meeting the lads from McHale from Ireland then onto the monster wheels and dazzled by big shiny tractors Warrior and Lamborghini.

I was keen to see if there was any green technology on display and was inserted to see Deutz Fahr’s methane gas powered prototype on display –as we’ve seen big advances with hybrid technology I other markets with our client’s Alexander Dennis bus and coach manufacturer. This whistle stop, sausage powered tour with a few fantastic highlights (and a bagful of freebies and brochures) made the trip worthwhile, but next time as they say – “I’ll be back’” but for more than one day!