Horsch, a prominent player in the agricultural machinery sector, made headlines in 2020 with the launch of its innovative mechanical seeder, the Versa 3 KR. This machine has since garnered attention for its precise seed dosing capabilities, although it has not been without its drawbacks. The Dutch magazine TREKKER recently conducted extensive tests on the Versa 3 KR, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement.
The Versa 3 KR represents Horsch’s willingness to explore unconventional designs. The name “Versa,” which translates to “reversed,” hints at its unique approach to seeding. The machine is specifically designed for winter wheat, and TREKKER tested a 20-row version paired with Horsch’s Kredo 3 power harrow. This combination utilizes rotating components sourced from Kuhn, featuring ten rotors equipped with quick-change tines, and is capable of handling tractors with 190 to 250 horsepower.
While the manual depth adjustment on the Kredo 3 is noted for its precision, the leveling board adjustment has received mixed reviews. Additionally, potential buyers should be cautious with the optional extended foldable boundary plates, as they may inadvertently damage the seed hopper when raised. Fortunately, Horsch has addressed this concern in the updated version showcased at Agritechnica.
The technical specifications of the Kredo 3 power harrow and the Versa 3 seed drill reveal a well-engineered setup. The Kredo 3 features a working width of 3.08 meters and can handle a maximum power of 250 hp, while the Versa 3 boasts a tank capacity of 900 liters. The base price for the combination starts at €39,870, with the tested model priced at €51,330.
During testing, the Versa 3 KR was equipped with a 50 cm trapezoidal packer roller, which performed admirably on medium to heavy soils. However, its effectiveness diminished on lighter soils, where it struggled with excessive sinking. For those working primarily in lighter conditions, a larger 60 cm trapezoidal packer roller may prove to be a better fit.
Ergonomics also play a vital role in the machine’s design. The foldable step and wide platform provide excellent access to the seed hopper, although the handrail could be positioned higher for better support when handling seed bags. The cover tarp is designed to seal tightly, featuring a double lip to prevent spillage during filling, although its locking mechanism could be more user-friendly.
The Versa 3 KR shines in its metering system, which allows for easy adjustments when switching between different seed sizes. This flexibility is complemented by the option to add metering wheels for coarse seeds, enhancing the machine’s versatility. However, some users have reported issues with the sprayer track switching system, indicating that it may display an ‘overload’ message during operation. Horsch has acknowledged this issue and claims to have replaced faulty adjustment couplings to improve reliability.
Feedback from users like German farmer Alexander Frank underscores the machine’s strengths. After initial challenges with settings for specific crops, Frank has praised the Versa 3 KR for its accurate metering and cross-distribution. He utilizes the machine on clay soils, opting for the heavier 60 cm trapezoidal packer roller, which has proven effective in ensuring stability on rocky fields.
The ease of adjusting the seed drill is another highlight, thanks to its electric drive system. Farmers can quickly modify the metering system for different crops and shut down the machine with minimal effort. The intuitive design, featuring clearly labeled adjustments, allows for efficient calibration and operation.
Overall, the Horsch Versa 3 KR stands out as a significant advancement in mechanical seeding technology. Its innovative features and thoughtful design cater to the evolving needs of modern agriculture, although potential buyers should remain aware of its limitations in certain soil conditions. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, machines like the Versa 3 KR will play a crucial role in helping farmers optimize their operations and enhance productivity.