Rubber tracks on tractors and self-propelled harvesters are nothing new, but this is the first time that we’ve seen them on a cattle hoof trimmer.
Called the Trimmaster, and made by Dutch-firm Wopa, the tracks are said to be ideal for negotiating uneven surfaces or when working in soft conditions.
In operation, a lead acid battery powers an electric motor, which in turn powers a hydraulic pump supplying oil to the two track drive motors (one each side). The battery provides enough energy to power the tracks for around 30 minutes.
The rubber-tracked model is in addition to the existing wheeled version. Other than the tracks, the main difference between the two is that the wheeled version is towed for transport, while the tracked model is carried on a flatbed trailer.
The tracked version costs around €47,000, which is roughly €10,000 more expensive than the wheeled model.
