The proven Massey Ferguson 7S tractor range is now showcased in the Sandveld, where HP Smit and Sons Farming, a father and son team, excels in potato farming. For years, their success has been attributed to their reliable Massey Ferguson tractors.
Pierré Smit, alongside his sons Louw and Johan, represents the fifth generation farming on the original farm, Riviera, near Piketberg. Initially a livestock farm, Pierré’s father transitioned to potato farming in the 1960s. Despite the challenging sandy soil of the Sandveld, the Smits have successfully adapted their farming techniques to produce exceptional white potatoes well-received in the market.
The Smit Family’s Journey with Massey Ferguson.
During the recent Potatoes SA awards ceremony, Pierre and his sons Louw and Johan received the Syngenta national potato farmer of the year award. LTR: Louw, Louise-Mari,
Christel, Pierre, Mariaan and Johan Smit..
Louw Smit, the eldest brother, oversees marketing, cultivation management, planting planning, and general farm management.
Their relationship with Massey Ferguson began in 1960 when his grandfather purchased their first model. Today, their fleet includes various models, with the recent addition of two 7S series tractors. “Massey is in our blood, and since we started with it, it’s the brand we identify with,” says Louw.
After acquiring a nearby farm with tractors from another brand, they quickly realized their preference for Massey Ferguson’s performance and reliability.
High-specification tractors are crucial in the Sandveld, focusing on effective power delivery in sandy conditions rather than just high kilowatts. The tractors also play a vital role in data collection, essential for year-round planting and seasonal analysis.
Advancements in the Massey Ferguson 7S Series
Introduced to South Africa in 2023, the 7S series has seen several enhancements. George Cockrell, Massey Ferguson’s salesman at Hennies Tractors in Malmesbury, highlights the series’ transformation, including the new Sabre Tooth design on the engine bonnet, reminiscent of older Massey Ferguson models. The 7S series features AGCO Power 6.6-liter six-cylinder engines ranging from 150 to 210 kW, paired with the DynaVT transmission for consistent power delivery.
The 7S series is equipped with a built-in GPS system, a closed hydraulic system, and a comfortable, operator-friendly cab available in the Essential or Efficient series. Key improvements include a new control stick system on the right-hand side, facilitating easy control of ISOBus tools, GPS, and maps via a Data5 touchscreen. .
The 7S Tractors in Action
The Massey Ferguson 7S-reeks prepping land.
Johan Smit, the youngest brother and overall production manager, recently acquired the 7S.165 and 7S.210 models. These tractors are specifically suited for their applications, with the 7S.165 used for planting and the 7S.210 for deep soil cultivation. The 7S series is praised for its user-friendliness, versatility, and fuel efficiency. The robust DynaVT transmission in the 7S.210 model is particularly notable, and the series offers a variety of tires suitable for the Sandveld’s unique conditions.
The Smits’ dedication to Massey Ferguson tractors underscores their commitment to quality and performance. As Pierré enjoys starting each day with new challenges, Louw, Johan, and the team continue to rely on Massey Ferguson’s advanced technology and proven reliability to drive their success in potato farming.
For more information on how AGCO’s new technology and the 7S series tractors can enhance your farming operations, visit your nearest Massey Ferguson dealer or their website at www.masseyferguson.com .
