German manufacturer Siloking has developed what it claims is the first self-propelled feed mixer with 100 per cent electric drive and external loading. The Siloking TruckLine 4.0 Compact 8 has a hopper capacity of eight cubic metres, and the machine can be used for mixing, transporting and dosing feed.
The traction drive and the mixing drive of the Siloking TruckLine 4.0 are both electrically powered via a high-performance battery. The mixing drive of 20hp makes it possible to break up round bales without any problems, produce a homogeneous mix as well as ensure quick unloading.
The traction drive is integrated into the front axle and equipped with a strong motor of 24hp, to perfectly master even ascents. The infinitely variable control allows for driving speeds up to 25km/hr.
The well-arranged and spacious driver’s cab offers excellent all-round visibility. The screens in the driver’s view provide information on machine functions, the weighing system and a view backwards when reversing.
Loading the machine is done via the wireless radio-controlled weighing system, Siloking Data. The weighing data is simply transferred to the terminal in the loading vehicle via the radio network, and are therefore always in the driver’s view.
One battery charge is sufficient for three mixes for up to 100 dairy cows and heifers. For any higher requirements, a heavy-duty battery for up to five mixing cycles per day is available as an option.
“With a feed mixer with all-electric drive, the company takes one step further towards the future and offers the farmer a lot of benefits,” Siloking’s managing director Georg Mayer said. “For example, the operational and maintenance costs are reduced as there’s no need for diesel. And an integration of renewable energies is particularly efficient in the area of indoor livestock systems.”
The purchase of the TruckLine is particularly interesting for farms with existing loading technology, such as operators of biogas plants who also have bulls or dairy cows. Looking further, farmers can use the energy from photovoltaics, biogas plants or wind power to load the TruckLine.
With a length of 6,350mm, a width of 2,280mm and a height of 2,250mm only, it’s designed especially for farms with narrow barns and low doorways. Its rear steering with a minimal turning radius also comes as an advantage here.
The machine will be available from the second quarter of 2017. Distribution in the UK is via Kverneland.
For more information visit: www.siloking.com.
