Lely has launched the new Vector MFR mixing and feeding robot, said to take robotic precision feeding to a higher level.
The Vector MFR Next has a frame with a loading capacity of 800kg. This provides a 35% increase in feed loading capacity, when compared to the previous model, with front and rear lights for extra visibility.
The Vector MFR Next automated system gives cows access to fresh feed day and night, promoting their natural eating behaviour and rhythm. This can also lead to higher milk production due to healthy digestion.
Feed is dosed per animal or age group, reducing waste and contributing to future-proof operations. Farmers have control over feed costs by buying the right feedstuffs and feeding self-produced feed per animal group.
Managing director of business team feeding, Serge Loosveld adds, “Feeding strategy is an important part of operations on cattle farms. An optimal feeding strategy often leads to increased milk or meat yields. This is easier to achieve with automated feeding.
“Also, we know that the ‘labour’ factor plays a big role in switching to automated feeding. While the average dairy farm continues to grow, the number of hours in a day remains the same.”
The new feed centre allows for the simultaneous loading of two feeding robots, boosting the Vector’s efficiency on farms with more than 800 cows. Additionally, electrical technology reduces CO2 emissions by lowering diesel use, creating a quieter and more energy-efficient working farm environment.
Dairy farmers now have access to data and the operational status of the robot on the updated app, allowing more time to respond to the needs of their herd.