Photo: New Holland
New Holland has added a new model to its range of grape harvesters, offering farmers a smaller, more powerful machine that saves time, improves grape quality, and reduces maintenance costs.
The Braud 8.50L was launched in 2024 but was showcased at Nampo Cape in September in Bredasdorp, Western Cape. The machine is designed for large vineyards, but is compact enough to turn easily at the end of tight rows.
Derrick Coetzee, New Holland’s product marketing specialist, told Farmer’s Weekly that the new model combines strength and simplicity.
“With an overall length of just 5m and a powerful 144hp engine, the Braud 8.50L is both compact and capable. Farmers will notice quicker turnaround times, even in tough terrain.”
The upgraded engine delivers 16hp more than the previous version, while the redesigned transmission helps the harvester move smoothly over uneven ground. Together, these upgrades mean faster harvesting with less strain on the machine, reducing maintenance costs.
The harvester’s large hopper, which can hold up to 3 600ℓ of grapes, allows farmers to work longer between offloading. Grapes can be emptied directly into trailers up to 3m high, reducing downtime in the field.
One of the standout features of the Braud 8.50L is its gentle handling of grapes. The Shaking Dynamic Control system, which loosens the fruit from the vines, can be adjusted from the cab to suit different vineyard conditions.
“This allows the machine to shake just enough to remove the grapes without damaging the vines or crushing the fruit,” Coetzee said.
The harvester uses a Noria basket conveyor system that carefully carries each grape to the top of the machine. The baskets move in sync with the harvester, keeping constant contact with the vine so that no fruit is lost.
“It’s the closest you’ll get to hand-picking, but much faster,” Coetzee explained.
Inside the machine, a destemming rotor removes leaves and stems, while a fan blows away unwanted material, leaving clean grapes ready for the cellar. A built-in water system helps keep the machine clean by washing away sticky juice and debris during harvesting.
Powered by a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, the Braud 8.50L can work comfortably on slopes of up to 35°. Its automatic height and tilt control keeps the machine balanced and stable, while a suspension system makes for a smoother ride on rough terrain.
The harvester also features New Holland’s latest IntelliView™ IV Plus display, which provides an improved touchscreen and camera system for better visibility and easier operation.
“The Braud 8.50L gives farmers more power, cleaner fruit, and less downtime,” Coetzee said. “It’s built to deliver results, season after season.”
For more information visit newhollandag.co.za.
