Are you Europe's top tractor driver?

THE HUNT is on to find Europe’s best tractor driver.

John Deere and Michelin are once again hosting the European Drivers’ Championship in June, 2017, where 16 tractor men from all over Europe will prove their skills driving the new 6250R tractor at the Michelin test site in Clermont-Ferrand, France.

It's not only about speed, but also about the best and most efficient driving strategy. Those who would like to take part should apply at www.lightstrongsmart.com and then attract as many ‘likes’ as possible from their social media community. The 16 with the most 'likes' will be invited to the championships.

Eight 300hp John Deere 6250R tractors, with the new CommandPRO joystick, will be pulling a Joskin 29-tonne tandem axle trailer during the contest.

Vicon finance offer

New dealer-bought Vicon equipment from now on will come with a two-year, parts and labour warranty offer.

The warranty is an extension of the Extra-Care warranty scheme that was originally introduced on Vicon round balers, but it is now being rolled out on all Vicon implements.

Vicon's David Furber told The SF: “We are pleased to introduce the best implement warranty in the industry and it is based on the high quality of Vicon equipment and the extensive level of service and back-up we provide for our dealers and our customers."

A full list of terms and conditions is available from Vicon dealers.

Horsch's sales boost

Despite difficulties in the global machinery sector, cultivations specialist, Horsch, saw turnover rise to €300m in 2016.

Its performance drills are still its top sellers, with a 33% share of turnover, while tillage equipment accounts for 31%. Sprayers provide 13% and single grain machines provide almost 9%,with parts taking up the rest.

In addition to the UK and Germany, the Ukraine, France and Bulgaria/Romania are now key markets for the brand and it has founded subsidiaries in China and Brazil where it believes there is good potential for growth.