DOUBLE FORAGER POWER FOR WHOLECROP HARVEST

Last week we caught up with Houghton Farming in Hampshire as they took on a wholecrop oat harvest destined for a local anaerobic digestion (AD) plant. What made this job stand out was the sheer scale of the operation—two John Deere foragers, an 8500i and a 9500i, running side by side and making light work of the crop.

With over a dozen tractors and trailers hauling to keep pace, it was a well-coordinated effort from start to finish. Great to see these machines doing what they were built for—delivering reliable performance, even under pressure.

A big thank you to the team for letting us capture some fantastic shots out in the field.

A huge congratulations to Hunt Forest Group’s very own Stefan for his exceptional performance at the recent Isuzu I-1GP Global Technical Skills Competition, held in Bangkok, Thailand. After winning the UK national title, Stefan earned the chance to represent Team GB on the international stage, an opportunity he described as “overwhelming but absolutely incredible.”

We caught up with Stefan following his return to hear more about the experience, how the competition unfolded, and what it meant to be part of such a prestigious global event.

From UK Champion to Global Competitor

Earlier this year, Stefan was crowned the winner of the Isuzu UK Technical Skills event, securing his place on a plane to Thailand to compete against 17 other teams from around the world.

“I was completely shocked,” Stefan said. “I’ve only been working with Isuzu’s for about 18 months, so I went into the competition quite casually. To be named number one in the UK, especially against technicians with years, even decades of experience, was surreal.”

Facing the Challenge—Together

At the I-1GP, Stefan was paired with a fellow UK technician he hadn’t worked with before and was coached by a new mentor. That dynamic brought its own learning curve.

“We’re so used to working independently. Suddenly, everything had to be tackled as a team,” he explained. “We’d had some time to train together at Isuzu’s IT HQ beforehand, which helped, but it was still a big adjustment. We tripped over each other a few times, literally and figuratively, but chatting to the other teams, it seemed like we weren’t the only ones!”

Competing Under Pressure

The competition tested both theoretical knowledge and practical skills across electrical systems, component identification, gearbox diagnostics, and more.

“There was an hour-long written test, and then we had 45 minutes to diagnose and repair faults under real-world conditions,” Stefan said. “And the pressure was intense—spectators cheering, Union Jacks waving, the whole setup was amazing, but that fanfare definitely added to the stress.”

Despite the high-stakes environment, Stefan and his teammate placed 10th overall out of 18 global teams, a result he’s “genuinely proud of.”

Preparation and Perspective

Stefan credits part of his success to the training and support he received at Hunt Forest Group. “My Service manager, Sam gave me time to do extra online training, which made a real difference, especially brushing up on wiring diagrams and system navigation,” he said.

The competition also gave him a new outlook on fault diagnosis: “I learned alternative methods I hadn’t considered before. I’ve already started applying some of those techniques back at work.”

A Taste of Thailand

Aside from the competition, Stefan experienced Thai culture for the first time—heat, humidity, and spicy food included.

“The heat hit me like a wall when we left the airport, my glasses fogged up straight away,” he laughed. “We didn’t get loads of time to explore, but we tried some local food and got a glimpse of the culture. Everyone was so friendly, it really stood out.”

What’s Next?

Now back in the UK, Stefan is still riding high from the experience and is already looking ahead.

“I’d absolutely recommend it to any technician. It felt like the Olympics of our trade. I’d love the chance to go again, and I’ll be aiming to keep hold of that UK champion title!”

John Deere is pleased to announce the launch of its next generation of fixed and variable chamber round balers, designed to deliver superior performance, intelligent connectivity and high-quality bales. The new series offers increased productivity, advanced automation and user-friendly features. These innovations are aimed at providing farmers with highly efficient and reliable solutions for their baling needs.

Connected Intelligence

All models of the new generation of round balers from John Deere are equipped with advanced ISOBUS capabilities, ensuring complete machine integration into the John Deere Operations Center™. This intelligent connection ensures that farmers can monitor bale quality on the go and thus operate more efficiently in the field. The connectivity feature allows for seamless synchronisation and secure storage of all invoicing-relevant information when leaving the field. Additionally, an optional moisture monitoring feature measures the average moisture per bale in real-time and alerts the operator on the tractor display if the moisture content deviates from the pre-defined setting. Tracking each bale’s size, drop location and moisture levels and documenting this data in the John Deere Operations Center™ offers for instance number of bales per field and dry-matter maps.

Weave automation for exceptional driver comfort

The variable chamber models V452R and V462R boast a 15% increase in driveline power intake, translating to an 8% increase in productivity in the field. The innovative weave automation feature includes a flexible drawbar so the baler can automatically weave over the windrow. When following a straight windrow the system eliminates the need for manual weaving and automatically guides the baler left and right along the windrow – depending on the chamber filling, creating consistently well-shaped bales. In addition, the active hitch automatically follows curved windrows, even in corners. The baler precisely tracks the windrow, eliminating missed crop and reducing tractor manoeuvres. Also, the tighter turning radius makes manoeuvring the baler easier. The fast bale release system allows for unloading a bale and closing the gate in just three seconds, while the double-belt system compresses crops up to 140 kg/m³, a 7% increase compared to previous models, ensuring impressive bale density performance.

Optional built-in Weighing System

The wrapping baler models C442R, C452R and C462R are designed to produce high-quality silage. These models feature an optional built-in bale weighing system with advanced strength gauges on each of the four transport table rollers, allowing for on-the-go measurement of each bale’s weight. With a wrapping arm speed of 40 rpm, the wrapper components match the baler’s productivity, avoiding any time loss during the baling process. The ISOBUS AUX-N control enables operators to map multifunction joystick buttons so the driver can control the main baler functions via the CommandPRO^TM lever.

Compact and Versatile

The variable chamber models V452M and V462M offer a 10% increase in driveline power intake, resulting in up to an 8% increase in productivity. The new endless belts with rougher skin design ensures reliable net feeding even in sticky, wet crop conditions. Valid for all new round baler models is the hydraulically actuated knife engagement. With this feature the operator will enjoy more comfort when engaging or retracting the knives from the cab, while the higher knife engagement force makes sure all crop gets consistently cut. Maintenance is made easy with simple access points, long greasing intervals, and a chain auto-lube system. The G5e touchscreen provides intuitive operation, and baler automation allows for hands-free unloading, enhancing overall ease of use.

“With this new generation of round balers, we’re delivering more than just power and productivity,” says Philippe Steinmann, Product Marketing Manager Europe at John Deere. “We’re giving farmers a smarter, more connected baling experience, one that combines automation, precision, and exceptional comfort to help them get the most out of every field and every bale.”

John Deere today unveils its new 500R flagship sprayer, designed to deliver top-tier performance with exceptional precision. This advanced sprayer ensures every drop hits the crop where it counts, thanks to its precise application control and perfect boom positioning. The premium cab prioritises driver comfort with numerous features and enhanced machine control.

Designed Around Operator Needs

The 500R’s design is a direct response to the needs and expectations of today’s farmers. Visibility from the cab to the boom has been maximized, giving operators a clear view of their working environment for safer and more efficient spraying. The machine’s weight is evenly distributed, enhancing traction both in the field and on the road. Its narrow profile makes road transport easier and safer, while still accommodating for a large platform between fluid tank and cabin.

Superior Comfort and Intuitive Control in the Cabin

The fully pressurised cab with Cat. 4 filtration protects operators from exposure to chemicals during spraying operations. Ample storage options include armrest compartments and behind-seat storage for smartphones, keys, and larger items, with dedicated holders for beverage cups. Premium infotainment features such as Bluetooth^® connectivity, crystal-clear sound quality, and seamless smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow operators to make calls, handle messages, access music, and use voice commands effortlessly.

The G5^Plus CommandCenter™ boasts a 35% larger screen and 75% faster performance compared to previous displays. It offers high-definition 1080P resolution and a familiar maps-like satellite view. A corner post display provides essential machine information at a glance. The new CommandArm groups buttons by functionality, including engine, transport and chassis, and lights, for intuitive operation. The ergonomic multifunction joystick allows operators to control speed and park brake with a simple push or pull, while executing essential spraying functions through intuitively placed buttons.

Enhanced Boom Stability and Alignment

BoomTrac™ Pro 2 is equipped with five boom height sensors and a n Inertia Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor, ensuring the spray boom is correctly positioned at all times. This maintains consistent application heights, reduces drift, allows for higher speeds, and minimises operator stress. The actively controlled centre frame delivers maximum stiffness and optimal boom performance. It combines high stability with an intelligent dampening system that smooths out operation.

Advanced Drivetrain for Maximum Efficiency

At the heart of the 500R is the CommandDrive™ variable speed hydrostatic transmission, which offers an infinite range of speeds for optimal performance. A single hydrostatic pump powers four variable wheel motors, each connected to a heavy-duty planetary final drive hub. This configuration ensures full pulling power at each wheel and delivers superior traction control. The independent wheel motors automatically adjust power based on weight distribution and wheel speed, maintaining stability and grip in all conditions. For road travel, the 500R’s Auto Mode reduces engine speed to 1,350 RPM, significantly lowering fuel consumption and noise levels for a more economical and comfortable ride.

Precision Technology for Exceptional Spraying Quality

The combination of PowrSpray™, ExactApply™, and BoomTrac™ Pro 2 delivers up to 98% accuracy in spraying applications. PowrSpray™ is a dual circuit pump system developed exclusively by John Deere. Its key component, the Direct Rate Controller on the spray pump, can change output from minimum to maximum in less than three seconds, maintaining a consistent application rate even when forward speed changes. ExactApply™ offers highly precise spray control through individual nozzle management and pulse width modulation which maintains a constant droplet size across a large ground speed range, thus maximising application quality. The automatic turn compensation ensures a constant application rate in case the machine follows a curved track, and the new multi-meter feature allows up to 11 different rates across the boom bringing application to an even higher precision.

Solenne Bourgeois, Product Marketing Manager in Europe for John Deere, emphasizes the integrated nature of the 500R: “The new 500R is 100% John Deere made: it features the same premium cab as our combines, trusted suspension from our US self-propelled sprayers, the powerful engine from the 6R 250 tractor, and the proven PowrSpray™ technology from our successful R900i trailed sprayer. It’s a machine built for exceptional comfort, intuitive control, and smart spraying – delivering the performance farmers expect from John Deere.”

Highlights Summary

• Front cab design: significantly improved visibility, even weight distribution
• Premium cabin: numerous comfort features
• G5^Plus CommandCenter^TM display: higher resolution, faster performance
• CommandArm and joystick: intuitive machine and spraying operation
• Enhanced boom stability and control
• Advanced drivetrain: improved fuel efficiency, more comfortable ride
• John Deere Precision Ag Technology: highly precise spraying efficiency

Selected Specifications

We caught up with the harvesting team at AJ & RG Barber Ltd a couple of weeks ago as they kicked off their first cut silage using their brand-new John Deere 9700i Self-Propelled Forage Harvester.

This impressive machine, equipped with a 30R grass pickup, G5 display, and the advanced HarvestLab 3000, is set to deliver top-quality forage.

Wishing the team at AJ & RG Barber Ltd a successful and efficient harvest!

Key Features of the John Deere 9700i Forager:

JD18X 18.0L Engine: Delivers up to 825 hp, providing robust power for demanding tasks.

HarvestMotion Plus Technology: Enhances torque at lower engine speeds, improving fuel efficiency and performance.

HarvestLab 3000 Sensor: Offers real-time crop analysis, enabling precise adjustments to harvesting parameters.

30R Grass Pickup:

Complementing the 9700i is the 30R Grass Pickup, designed for high-throughput harvesting. With a 2.7-meter working width, 80 cm diameter auger, and six tine bars, it ensures efficient crop collection.

The integration of these technologies ensures that AJ & RG Barber Ltd can achieve optimal forage quality and efficiency, aligning with their commitment to producing high-quality cheese.

For more information on the John Deere 9700i Forager and 30R Grass Pickup, please contact your local Hunt Forest Group representative.

We couldn’t resist another trip out to see the John Deere R870R mowers in action—this time at A & G Hardwicks near Bath, cutting into second cut with ease.

Here are a few snaps of these beauties doing what they do best. Smooth, clean, efficient. Just how we like it.

John Deere R870R Mower-Conditioner: A Closer Look

The John Deere R870R mower-conditioner is engineered for high-performance mowing, offering a working width of 8.7 meters and a transport width of 2.95 meters. Its rotary disc cutterbar operates at 2986 rpm, ensuring efficient cutting even in tough conditions.

Equipped with quick-change knives technology, the R870R allows operators to replace knives in about 15 seconds, significantly reducing downtime. The impeller-style conditioning system, featuring pivoting steel fingers, accelerates the drying process while requiring minimal maintenance.

The hydropneumatic suspension system enables the mower to follow ground contours effectively, providing a consistent cut and preserving crop stubble for accelerated regrowth.

Experience the Efficiency

Witnessing the R870R in action showcased its capability to deliver clean and efficient cuts, making it an invaluable asset for dairy operations.

Secure Your New Isuzu D-Max Before April 5th to Lock in Lower Tax Rates
Recent HMRC updates have clarified key details surrounding the upcoming Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax changes set to take effect from 6th April 2025. Crucially, extended cab pick-ups will now be treated the same as double cab pick-ups, meaning they will also be subject to the new taxation rules.

What This Means for You
From 6th April 2025, both extended and double cab pick-ups will:

✅ Be reclassified as cars for BIK tax purposes
✅ Move from the current flat-rate BIK charge of £3,960 to a CO₂-based variable rate, likely increasing tax costs significantly
✅ Be classified as cars for Capital Allowance purposes, rather than plant and machinery

However, purchases made before 5th April 2025 will retain the current, lower tax treatment until 2029 under HMRC’s transitional rules. VAT reclaim eligibility remains unchanged.

Why Act Now?
If you’re considering a new Isuzu D-Max Double Cab or Extended Cab, purchasing before the deadline ensures you avoid the higher tax burden for the next four years.

Don’t Miss Out – Beat the Tax Hike!
🚛 Stock available now – secure yours before the 5th April deadline. Contact us today to discuss options and take advantage of the current tax benefits.

📞 Call Gareth to arrange a demo or for latest stock availability on 07725 555 720
📍 Visit our Showrooms at our Blashford, Chilbolton or Isle of Wight branches.
🔗 www.huntforest.com/isuzu

Isuzu UK proudly unveils The New Isuzu D-Max, a pick-up truck that sets new benchmarks in durability, refinement, and technology. Smarter, Stronger, and Safer than ever, The New Isuzu D-Max is the ultimate combination of toughness, innovation, and versatility, built to continue the “Driven To Do” ethos that defines Isuzu.

Ready to Work and Play: D-Max for Everyone
The New Isuzu D-Max is tailored to meet the needs of every driver. Its lineup is divided into two distinct ranges: Business and All-Purpose.

The Business Range, featuring the Utility model, is designed as a no-nonsense workhorse available in single, extended, and double cab formats. With durable vinyl flooring, robust steel wheels, and advanced safety features, the Utility model is built to excel in demanding environments.

The All-Purpose Range caters to those seeking premium features and modern styling. The DL20 model, available in both extended and double cab body styles, offers heated seats, carpeted interiors, and alloy wheels for a more refined  experience. For those who desire more sophistication, the DL40 trim introduces Bi-LED headlights, leather upholstery*, and dual-zone climate control. Sitting at the top of the range is the V-Cross, featuring dark grey exterior finishes, an advanced 9” infotainment system, and an 8-speaker premium sound setup, combining luxury and practicality in one vehicle. This model also introduced the sophisticated new Sienna Orange colour.

Ready to Make Your Journeys Safer
Safety is at the heart of The New Isuzu D-Max, Smarter, Stronger, and Safer than ever before. Every model is equipped with Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS), ensuring comprehensive protection on every journey. These features include the new Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, working in conjunction with Traffic Sign Recognition, Traffic Jam Assist, new Turn Assist, new Rear Cross Traffic Braking, improved Lane Keep Assist and Attention Assist, alongside the existing extensive range of ADAS features, standard cross the range, offering peace of mind to drivers and passengers alike.

Double cab models benefit from eight airbags, including a centre airbag for added protection during side collisions, while the current generation of the D-Max is also certified with a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. E-Call technology, which automatically contacts emergency services in the event of a serious collision, further enhances the safety credentials of the D-Max.

Ready for All Terrains
True to its heritage, The New Isuzu D-Max is built for ultimate off-road capability while maintaining a smooth on-road experience. With a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes and a payload exceeding a tonne, it effortlessly handles heavy-duty tasks. The rear differential lock is now standard on all 4×4 models, providing increased traction in challenging conditions, while the newly added Rough Terrain Mode ensures steady progress by distributing power to the wheels with the most grip.

Reinforced underbody protection and an upgraded ladder chassis deliver exceptional durability. The advanced 4WD Shift-on-the-Fly system allows drivers to seamlessly switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations, making The New Isuzu D-Max Smarter, Stronger, and Safer in every environment.

Ready to Redefine Comfort and Connectivity
The New Isuzu D-Max seamlessly combines practicality with modern-day convenience. Inside, the redesigned cabin offers soft-touch materials, ergonomic seating, and a spacious rear passenger area for maximum comfort. All passengers also enjoy a further improved convenience with a USB C port and new upholstery across the cabin.

Every model comes equipped with a wireless multifunction touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, ensuring seamless connectivity. While the 8” multifunction display has been added as standard across the range, the flagship V-Cross trim takes the experience even further with a 9” screen, dual-zone climate control, and an 8-speaker premium sound system, embodying smarter technology at its finest.

Model Range at Glance

All prices are exclusive of VAT and additional charges. For special paint finishes, an additional £720 (including VAT) applies. ¹Double Cab Only.

Ready to Lead the Market: Award-Winning Excellence
The New Isuzu D-Max has been recognised with numerous accolades, including Pick-Up of the Year by Company Car & Van 2025, Best Range and Best Back-Up by Overlander 4×4 2025, and the Sustainability Award in 4×4 of the Year Awards 2025. It also earned the title of Best Diesel Pick-Up in the Diesel & Eco Car 2024 awards and Vehicle of the Year & Best Workhorse Pick-Up from Trade Van Driver 2024.

Alan Able, Managing Director at Isuzu UK, commented: “The New Isuzu D-Max is a vehicle that truly embodies our ethos of being ‘Driven To Do.’ It builds on our legacy of toughness and reliability while introducing premium features and state-of-the-art technology. Whether you’re tackling tough jobs or seeking adventure, the D-Max is ready for everything.”

Availability
The New Isuzu D-Max is now available for order at Isuzu dealerships across the UK, priced from £27,495 (CVOTR). Customers can choose from a variety of trims and configurations to suit their needs, from the rugged Utility to the luxurious V-Cross. With a proven legacy of Smarter, Stronger, Safer engineering, the D-Max is ready to take on any challenge.

For more information or to book a test drive, call us today!