Clark Equipment is gearing up for a massive 2026, with a host of new products, technology and upgrades set to join its stable
McCormick, Bobcat and Grasshopper customers will all benefit from new additions which are due to arrive in Australia this year.
Local distributor Clark Equipment has announced the suite of fresh products and says it is excited by what it will mean for customers.
Bobcat has new products across the farming spectrum thanks to a new articulated tractor, Toolcat model and turf renovation range, while Grasshopper’s out-front mowers will receive upgrades.
McCormick will also add a new tractor along with bringing its telematic fleet management system to Australia.
National product manager David Knoke is excited to bring these telemetry systems to Australia after first seeing them at Agritechnica in Germany two years ago.
“These are going to make life a lot easier for Australia where we’re so far away from distribution and service centres,” he says.
“The opportunity which is most exciting for me is to remotely diagnose problems, so we’ll be able to see error codes, and the farmers will be able to see this themselves as well through their own app.
“Farmers will be able to diagnose any issues they’re having themselves and we’ll be able to assist them there remotely now.
“For me, the big thing with the telemetry systems is the ability to service and take care of our customers a lot better.”
Having this remote diagnosis will enable Clark to send mechanics out to remote locations already knowing what the problem is and being equipped to fix it, Knoke adds, rather than them needing to first travel out to identify the problem then return with the necessary parts.
McCormick’s other addition is the X7.624 VT-Drive Clever Cab tractor.
Providing a maximum 240hp from its six-cylinder, 6.7L engine, the VT-Drive is a continuously variable four-stage transmission which the manufacturer says “delivers superior responsiveness for best-in-class performance”.
It offers four speed ranges to ensure a smooth ride from its maximum speed of 50km/h right down to just 40 metres per hour.
A chassis-mounted engine and rugged suspended front axle means all of its horsepower is put to the ground, ensuring the tractor is perfectly equipped to tackle rough terrain, steep inclines and tough conditions with optimum grip and stability.
The other part of its model name – Clever Cab – relates to several innovative features added by McCormick.
This includes 14 per cent more glass area, which provides unobstructed vision in all directions.
Ergonomically designed controls combine with a new electrohydraulic cab suspension system to increase operator comfort.
Interior space has also been increased, particularly in the driver’s chest and head areas, while there is also a 30cm touch screen monitor and 20 adjustable full LED work lights.
Knoke is excited by the addition of the X7.624, saying the combination of the new tractor and broader telemetry system promise to be valuable for both Clark Equipment and its customers.
“The factory is forever pushing forward and the amount of money they’re spending in R&D is just phenomenal at the moment,” he says.
“Everything is about efficiencies, precision farming and effectively making things as easy as possible for farmers on the ground.
“Knowing that it’s coming into Australia for 2026 is a huge step forward.
“In one sense it is driven by the factory, but it’s also driven by Clark to continue to push forward, wanting to service our customers better and be able to take care of our products and people a lot better as well.
“Clark are investing in a lot more people and resources as well, particularly in the agricultural space, which is something that I see as being a huge benefit for our farmers and for our business in general.”
Sharing the love
Clark Equipment’s additions for the new year are not restricted to the McCormick brand.
Bobcat Australia is a division of Clark Equipment, with new products being added across multiple sectors.
The first is the UW56 Toolcat, a unique machine which combines features of a tractor, pickup truck, skid steer loader and utility vehicle.
“This is a full versatile Toolcat machine capable of multiple applications and is the only one of its sort in the range,” Bobcat general manager Marc Langeweg says.
Powered by a 61hp engine, the UW56 has a total rated capacity of 1,905kg along with a towing capacity of 1,814kg.
It allows users to lift, haul and tow materials while being in a familiar cockpit for previous Bobcat machine owners, along with offering the versatility of working with more than 45 attachments.
The Toolcat also boasts an impressive turning circle, which is described by the manufacturer as being less than a compact tractor.
It can also reach speeds of 26.5km/h, making it an ideal workhorse for multiple jobs around the farm.
Another Bobcat addition is the AT450 articulating tractor.
This has not yet reached Australia but is on the way and is described by Langeweg as an “all-terrain tractor with capability of different attachments”.
With an optional dual wheel kit installed, Bobcat says this tractor makes easy work of slopes up to 30 degrees.
Combined with all-wheel drive, its articulating and oscillating frame allows the machine to bend and flex in the middle while keeping all wheels on the ground no matter the terrain.
A front-mounted quick hitch system enables operators to switch between more than a dozen attachments.
Powered by a 32.5hp engine, this tractor is ergonomically designed with a large operator platform and comfortable hand and foot controls.
Bobcat’s range has also been bolstered by a new turf renovation range which includes a selection of aerators, dethatchers and sod cutters.
The last area to receive attention is Grasshopper out-front mowers.
Grasshopper has long been known for its diesel-powered mowers and Langeweg says boosting the range will add to an already popular product.
“Grasshopper mowers are built in the USA and have been around since 1969,” he says.
“We want to bring these products into Australia to add to the grounds maintenance equipment portfolio. This means we can offer a full range of mowers including the new out-front mowers.”
The addition of out-front mowers means customers will have access to products with deck widths between 52 inches (132cm) and 72 inches (180cm).
The full suite of new products is available by visiting www.clarkfarmequipment.com.au and www.bobcatofaustralia.com.au