LAMMA 2017 will see a new name entering the UK grassland machinery market – Hi-Spec, which will show a pre-series production model of its new AutoCut triple mower. Initially planned to be available with mowing widths of 9.8m (RH980) and 10.5m (RH1050), the latter will be one of the widest tractor-powered triple mowers on the market. Available either as a straight mower or with a conditioner, both models use a semi-mounted design and a new type of hydraulic suspension system, which ensures virtually all the weight of the mowers is carried on the frame. Hi-Spec says this allows the AutoCut to be used with smaller tractors than would normally be required for a mower this size. The company reckons most 9-10m wide triple mower conditioners require around 8.5hp/m to carry and drive them. However, even the 10.5m wide mower conditioner AutoCut requires just over 7hp/m, while the straight mower version only needs around 4.5hp/m, making the mower ideal not only for contractors but also for livestock farmers looking to maximise mower output from existing tractors. The RH980 uses a 3.2m-wide eight-disc bed, while the RH1050 is fitted with a 3.7m, nine-disc bed. Each mower unit is mounted using a central pivot for contour following and incorporates a hydraulic suspension system that enables the bed pressure to be altered from the cab. The suspension is designed so that it can be moved through a range of 500mm, which, says the company, helps to reduce stubble damage, resulting in faster regrowth. The carrier frame incorporates an active steering axle that is mechanically linked to the headstock for good manoeuvrability both in the field and when turning in through narrow gateways. Unlike most mowers that fold upwards, the rear mower units fold backwards and the front guards are hydraulically lifted automatically. This not only results in a narrow transport width of just 2.3m for the straight mower or 2.6m for the mower-conditioner versions, but also avoids problems with transport height restrictions, and Hi-Spec says the low centre of gravity allows the AutoCut to be safely transported at high road speeds. Following a limited pre-series production run for final testing next season, it is planned that the new mowers will be fully available for 2018.