48 | Carbon zero sprayer a winner The judges were impressed by this world-first innovation in agricultural electrification, as well as the exceptional operational duration of the TRS electric sprayer. T T from page 46 TRS Wholesale REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT “It began for us roughly four years ago with a proactive orchardist in Central Otago, who was looking to electrify his orchard. It’s very rewarding to work with a customer directly, and to achieve the goal of producing and manufacturing a sprayer that literally just plugs into the back of the tractor,” says Tim. “Our hydraulically driven sprayers already lead the market on energy efficiency. Now we have produced a sprayer that can be propelled by a fully electric tractor to provide a completely carbon-zero spraying solution.” TRS Sprayers & Equipment designed and built its first electrically powered orchard sprayer alongside its German-based fan partner, Weber. Nelson’s Trinder Engineers also played an integral part in the development of structural components and sprayer assembly. Specifically designed to meet the requirements of Forest Lodge Orchard in Central Otago, the electrically powered sprayer connects to the orchard’s fully electric Monarch tractor and uses the tractor’s battery to power sprayer pumps and fans. Since the initial prototype was made, further refinements have been achieved to deliver optimal performance. “We are always striving for efficiency, and the TRS sprayer ticks this box,” say Euan White and Mike Casey, of Electric Cherries at Forest Lodge. “We are proud to have their electric sprayer in our fleet and see it as a critical part of our operation to ensure a high level of crop protection and production of high-quality fruit. The sprayer is efficient, effective and very easy to operate. At Forest Lodge Orchard, we see the total electrification of horticulture as achievable and the reduction of on-farm emissions as a win for everyone.” As well as supplying the electric sprayer to Forest Lodge, TRS Sprayers & Equipment has deployed two units in the United States through Monarch Tractors. The Judges’ Report from the Marlborough Environment Awards 2025 noted that the TRS electric sprayers demonstrate impressive real-world performance, with documented capability to cover orchard-spraying requirements in trials conducted in Cromwell. The judges were impressed by this worldfirst innovation in agricultural electrification, as well as the exceptional operational duration of the TRS electric sprayer, (10-hour working capacity). Other key features that drew their praise were: high energy efficiency and minimal spray wastage; quiet operation; TRS’ comprehensive approach to environmental considerations, including end-of-life recyclability; their significant demonstration of problem solving in all aspects of the final solution; and strong potential for commercial development. A strategic partnership has been established with Monarch and NZ Fendt tractor suppliers to support future expansion plans. “TRS Wholesale Limited has demonstrated exceptional innovation and environmental leadership through the development of their electrical sprayer technology,” stated the judges in their report. “While the commercial future is still developing, particularly due to the current limited availability of electric tractors, the project shows remarkable innovation and potential.” In a press release about the Marlborough Environment Awards, Marlborough Lines praised TRS Wholesale’s project for having delivered real results in energy efficiency, emissions reduction and renewable energy use. Leaders drive Fendt. The Fendt 200 V/F/P Vario comes standard with FendtONE – the latest and greatest in onboard technology. The Fendt 200 V/F/P Vario delivers the power and performance you need to drive your business now and in the future. Contact the team at TRS for the latest information on the Fendt 200 Series tractors. THE ONE AND ONLY. FendtONE Onboard Technology: • Unique interconnection of up to 2 integrated screens • • Enables individualisation of entire working environment World first freely programmable armrest with 2-way, multi-function joystick fendt.com | Fendt ist eine weltweite Marke von AGCO. fendt.com/au t is a world id br nd of AG
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=