Vervaet has introduced the third generation of its Hydro Trike self propelled slurry applicator, bringing one of the most comprehensive redesigns in the machine’s history. Built on an all new modular platform, the Hydro Trike 3.0 delivers significantly higher traction, greater lifting capacity, larger tank options, and a completely redesigned operator environment aimed at improving efficiency during slurry application.
Modular platform simplifies production
Rather than developing two completely different machines, Vervaet has moved to a single modular architecture that serves both Hydro Trike models. The company now builds the three wheel and five wheel versions around the same engine compartment, hydraulic drive system, and cab, with the final chassis configuration determined later in the production process.
This approach reduces manufacturing complexity while improving parts commonality and long term serviceability. Customers can choose between a 17 m³ three wheel version or a 21 m³ five wheel version, with both tanks offering more than one cubic meter of additional capacity compared to the previous generation.
New 530 HP drivetrain
Power comes from a 530 hp Mercedes MTU 13 liter diesel engine, replacing the previous powertrain with a more capable package designed for demanding field conditions.
To support continuous operation during hot weather, Vervaet enlarged the cooling system by 50%, allowing the machine to work in ambient temperatures up to 50°C (122°F).
One of the largest engineering changes is the introduction of the VSG 2.0 transmission. Maximum tractive effort in the critical working speed range of 0 to 10 km/h increases from 100,000 Nm to 145,000 Nm, representing up to 45% more pulling force.
For operators working on rolling terrain or using increasingly wider slurry applicators, this additional low speed torque should translate directly into improved field performance and reduced wheel slip.
Stronger chassis and higher lifting capacity
The rear linkage has also been redesigned.
By removing the previous lifting yoke, Vervaet reduced the number of moving components while simplifying maintenance. More importantly, lifting capacity has increased from 5,000 kg to 10,000 kg, allowing the Hydro Trike to carry substantially heavier implements.
The five wheel model also benefits from a redesigned driven center axle equipped with wheel reduction hubs and axial piston motors. According to Vervaet, the new axle delivers approximately 30% more tractive performance than the previous Hydro Trike design.
Faster slurry loading system
The slurry application system combines a Börger positive displacement pump with the company’s Cyclone Cutter.
Customers can choose between pump capacities of 9,000 or 13,500 liters per minute depending on operational requirements.
An optional Vervaet Superfill package further accelerates loading by adding a turbo filling system with a direct bypass into the tank. The suction diameter also increases from 8 inches to 10 inches, reducing filling time by up to 1.5 minutes during each loading cycle.
For contractors completing dozens of filling cycles every day, even modest reductions in loading time can produce meaningful productivity gains across an entire season.
Claas X11 cab improves operator comfort
The Hydro Trike 3.0 adopts the latest Claas X11 cab, giving operators a noticeably larger working environment with improved visibility and better sound insulation.
Additional upgrades include:
- redesigned multifunction armrest;
- new driving control lever;
- standard refrigerator;
- optional Apple CarPlay;
- new four point suspended cab mounting system with adjustable dampers.
These improvements focus on reducing operator fatigue during long application days while modernizing the machine’s interior.
New software integrates machine functions
A completely redesigned user interface now serves as the primary control center for the Hydro Trike.
The tablet based system integrates vehicle controls, slurry application, hydraulic linkage, and tire pressure management into one display.
Operators can independently configure field and transport settings for linkage height, lift speed, damping, and pressure compensation.
An intelligent hydraulic monitoring system also continuously checks fluid condition and can warn operators of contamination or slurry intrusion before major component damage occurs.
Larger tires reduce soil pressure
Vervaet also focused heavily on reducing soil compaction.
A redesigned front axle geometry allows larger front tires while maintaining an overall machine height below 4 meters.
New rear tire configurations increase total tire contact area by approximately 30% compared to the previous Hydro Trike generation, while keeping transport width at 3.0 meters or 3.2 meters depending on tire selection.
The larger footprint helps distribute machine weight more effectively, reducing ground pressure during slurry application.
Technical specs
| Specification | Hydro Trike 3-Wheeler | Hydro Trike 5-Wheeler |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Mercedes MTU 13L, 530 hp | Mercedes MTU 13L, 530 hp |
| Tank capacity | 17 m³ | 21 m³ |
| Transmission | VSG 2.0 | VSG 2.0 |
| Maximum traction | 145,000 Nm | 145,000 Nm |
| Lift capacity | 10,000 kg | 10,000 kg |
| Height | 3.95 m | 3.95 m |
| Width | 3.00 m, optional 3.20 m | 3.00 m, optional 3.20 m |
| Length | 7.58 m | 9.18 m |
| Cab | Claas X11 | Claas X11 |
Industry perspective
Rather than chasing headline horsepower alone, Vervaet concentrated on improving nearly every productivity factor that affects slurry application in real field conditions. Higher traction, faster loading, larger tire footprints, increased lifting capacity, and a unified electronic control system all target measurable gains in operational efficiency.
The modular platform may ultimately prove to be one of the most significant developments. Beyond simplifying manufacturing, it creates a foundation that could allow future Hydro Trike variants to share more components, accelerate product updates, and reduce long term ownership costs.
About Vervaet
Founded in 1957 and headquartered in Biervliet, the Netherlands, Vervaet specializes in high capacity self propelled agricultural machines for slurry application and sugar beet harvesting. The company remains family owned and manufactures its equipment in the Netherlands, with machines operating across Europe through an international dealer network. Over nearly 70 years of engineering, Vervaet has established a reputation for developing purpose built self propelled equipment focused on maximizing field efficiency while minimizing soil compaction.
Source: www.vervaet.nl
