The grinder is now on tracks for maximum jobsite mobility.
The new Vermeer HG4000TX horizontal grinder combines the jobsite mobility of a tracked undercarriage with the proven high-performance grinding capabilities of the HG4000 model. Equipped with a 536 hp (400 kW) Cat C13B T4F/Stage V diesel engine, the HG4000TX includes the Series III duplex drum and advanced technology options to enhance operator efficiency.
Vermeer have taken a proven, powerful platform and engineered a tracked version that delivers the mobility needed without compromising the performance, robust design or support customers count on from Vermeer. But Vermeer also introducing several new technology options designed to help crews work more efficiently and create more value from the material they process.
The HG4000TX can be equipped with several productivity-enhancing options. For operators looking to enter the coloured mulch market or for mulch producers wanting to expand their capabilities, the optional Vermeer colouring system is fully integrated into the grinder. This onboard system eliminates the need for additional colouring equipment on the jobsite, allowing crews to produce high-quality coloured mulch with just the grinder, a water source and dye. The system automatically adjusts dye and water flow based on material feed, helping to minimize waste.
For greater operational insight, the optional Vermeer patented productivity monitoring system empowers users production knowledge on the job. Operators can access real-time data regarding both the volume of material processed and the fuel consumption throughout the day. This capability to visualize key metrics enables operators to make informed decisions to optimize the grinder’s settings. Key data points from the colouring and productivity monitoring systems can be reviewed onsite through the machine's display and remote, or in the back office via the Fleet dashboard on VermeerOne™ platform.
Engineered for high-capacity throughput, this robust machine features a large 42 × 60 in (107 × 152 cm) feed opening and double-strength infeed sidewalls that allow operators to process whole trees and other large organic materials with minimal restriction. The aggressive feed roller features down pressure for improved material control and pull-in power. For grinding, the machine uses a Series III duplex drum equipped with 18 bolt-on tips and nine replaceable hammers, delivering both durability and easy maintenance. For operators focused on the biomass market, an optional chip drum is also available.
The tracked undercarriage delivers enhanced onsite mobility with low ground pressure, providing jobsite flexibility and reducing material handling needs to optimize labour efficiency. The grinder comes standard with several smart features. An intelligent feed system automatically monitors engine speed and optimizes infeed speed, while the EcoIdle™ engine control system helps reduce fuel consumption, noise and machine wear when not feeding material. Using the full-function wireless remote, operators can control operating functions from up to 300 ft (91 m) away. The optional Damage Defense system protects the hammermill from metal contaminants by detecting initial contact and reversing and stopping the feed system. Additionally, the HG4000TX integrates with VermeerOne platform, a telematics solution delivering real-time equipment management data. Source
The Romania plant becomes the eighth Stihl production country worldwide.
The will serve as the European hub for Stihl battery-powered products. The German family-owned Stihl Group has officially inaugurated its first battery-only production site in Oradea, Romania. The investment of 125 million euros marks a major milestone in the company’s transformation toward battery technology and strengthens its European manufacturing footprint. The new facility becomes Stihl’s European centre of competence to produce battery packs and battery-powered tools, adding a key hub to the Group’s global network. Designed as a core element of the Group’s international production network, the site will play a central role in meeting the growing demand for battery-powered products across European markets.
Construction began in March 2024 and was completed in less than 18 months. The factory will gradually ramp up operations to reach an annual capacity of 1 million battery packs by 2026. By 2028, output is expected to rise to 1.8 million battery packs and 1.7 million battery-powered tools. Production initially focuses on battery-powered blowers and AP battery packs from the professional Stihl range. Over time, the portfolio will expand to include additional battery-powered equipment such as brush cutters, chainsaws, and other tools.
The new facility has 47,000 square meters of operational space on a 147,000 square meters site. The plant is equipped with flexible multi-product production lines and a high degree of automation, integrating Industry 4.0 principles that ensure digital traceability, optimized processes, and outstanding operational efficiency.
Battery technology has become a major growth-driver for the company. Today, more than one in four of all STIHL products sold worldwide are battery-powered. The company aims to increase this share to approximately 35 percent by 2027 and to about 80 percent by 2035 — a clear reflection of the accelerating transformation in the industry.
The decision to build the new plant in Oradea reflects STIHL’s strategy to strengthen its European footprint and to locate production close to key markets. The city offers excellent logistical connections, a modern infrastructure, and access to a highly qualified workforce — ideal conditions for sustainable industrial growth within the European Union.
Recruitment and training are progressing steadily. The plant currently employs around 135 people and will reach approximately 700 employees by 2028. The Oradea plant combines advanced production technology with a strong focus on sustainability. Flexible, multi-product assembly lines allow the site to adapt quickly to different battery models and tool types. A high level of automation and the integration of Industry 4.0 principles ensure digital traceability, data-driven quality control, and high operational efficiency. Source
Volvo Trucks upgrades its Driver Alert Support system with an eye-tracking camera
Long hours on the road demand constant attention from truck drivers. Volvo now upgrades the Driver Alert Support system to enhance its ability to detect and alert drivers who show signs of inattention or drowsiness. The aim of this more advanced system is to provide better support for drivers and contribute to increased road safety.
The upgraded Driver Alert Support uses two cameras to detect signs of drowsiness or inattentive driving. A new eye-tracking camera, which is placed on top of the side display in the truck, detects signs of distraction and alerts the driver with a pop-up message and a warning sound. A forward-facing camera, which is part of the current Driver Alert Support, monitors driving behaviour and the position of the truck in relation to the lane and the roadside. Thereby detecting the typical characteristics of a drowsy or distracted driver.
The upgraded Driver Alert Support already meets the EU’s updated safety legislation, the General Safety Regulation (GSR2) – including the second step that comes into effect in July 2026, which requires all trucks in the EU to be equipped with Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) systems. Volvo’s new eye-tracking camera is active at speeds above 18 km/h.
The upgraded Driver Alert Support will be standard for Volvo’s heavy-duty trucks (Volvo FH and FM) as well as medium-duty trucks (Volvo FL and FE) in the EU, and some markets outside the EU, for example Norway, Switzerland, and the UK. Additionally, it will be available to order for other markets. The new system will come into production in November 2025. Outside of the EU, Volvo will also continue to offer today’s Driver Alert Support with the forward-facing camera.
The system is based on two cameras. An eye-tracking camera detects signs of distraction based on where the driver is looking. A front-facing camera is used to track lane markings and compare them to the driver’s steering movements.
If signs of distraction or drowsiness are detected, the driver is alerted with a pop-up message and a warning sound. If the inattentive driving continues, a new pop-up message appears together with an escalated acoustic warning. The system is switched on automatically when the ignition is turned on. The Driver Alert Support system can be de-activated using a switch (GSR legal requirement). Source
Challenges and Opportunities in Central and Southern Europe and North America
Researchers have evaluated the development of mechanized cut-to-length (CTL) harvesting systems outside of the Nordic countries in areas with great potential but limited adoption. They explored the Nordic countries for context, then focused on Central/Southern Europe and North America as two examples. Within North America, they highlighted the US South as an area of potential growth for CTL systems, despite this region currently being dominated by full-tree harvesting. They reviewed the past, present, and future uses and applications of the mechanized CTL system, examining its capabilities, limitations, successes, failures, and opportunities.
GIS-based applications for CTL machines continue to advance, utilizing new data and technologies for harvest planning and machine trafficking to avoid wet or sensitive areas. Communication between machines related to pile assortment and location continues to improve, streamlining CTL team efficiency. The introduction of machine-mounted terrestrial LiDAR for tree selection during thinning is promising and may accelerate the development of autonomous capabilities. Unfortunately, the widescale adoption of these technologies is limited beyond the Nordic countries, where significant market and logistical challenges remain.
Mechanized CTL harvesting technologies and capabilities have advanced significantly since their inception in the 1970s, with current machines representing the highest levels of mechanization, safety, ergonomics, technology, and site impact mitigation. However, several limitations impede the system’s widescale adoption such as 1) the lack of effective operator training, 2) market constraints limiting the justification for value recovery benefits in small-diameter harvests, 3) lack of industry adoption of CTL-sized wood in markets dominated by tree-length stems, and 4) challenges related to productivity and cost when compared to full-tree systems.
The information was published in Current Forestry Reports, 2025. The authors were M. Chad Bolding, Joseph L. Conrad IV, Lars Eliasson, Raffaele Spinelli, Natascia Magagnotti, Timothy R. Miller & Hasini Mapatunage. Source
Read MoreMaximizing productivity while managing diverse materials.
For years, grinders have been the backbone of these operations, but they often locked operators into a one-size-fits-all setup. Now, a smarter approach is reshaping the way professionals tackle land clearing challenges: swappable rotor technology.
Traditional grinders are built around a single rotor configuration, forcing operators to make trade-offs between production speed, end-product size, and wear life. What works for clean wood may not be effective for contaminated debris, and vice versa. This lack of flexibility often leads to higher downtime, increased operating costs, and reduced efficiency on job sites.
Swappable rotor technology flips the script. By enabling operators to quickly switch between rotor setups, machines can be tailored to the material and job at hand. This adaptability ensures contractors are always using the most efficient tool for the task, whether that’s a rotor designed for high-volume wood processing or one optimized for tough, dirty applications.
The core advantage of swappable rotors is the ability to maximize productivity without compromise. Instead of running one rotor across every job and accepting inefficiencies, operators can:
- Increase throughput on clean wood jobs with aggressive rotor designs.
- Minimize wear and tear by switching to rotors built for contaminated or abrasive materials.
- Control end-product size to meet market demands, from biomass fuel to mulch.
- This flexibility not only saves time and fuel but also ensures machines stay productive across a wider range of applications.
Downtime is one of the most expensive factors in land clearing. Swappable rotor systems are engineered to simplify maintenance, making it easier to service or replace components before they cause costly breakdowns. The ability to select the right rotor for the right material also extends the life of the grinder overall, as wear is reduced when machines aren’t forced to “muscle through” unsuitable applications. Land clearing is a competitive business, where efficiency, adaptability, and cost control define success. Contractors adopting swappable rotor technology gain a clear edge:
- Lower total cost of ownership through reduced wear and downtime.
- Increased bid competitiveness by being able to process more types of material profitably.
- Operational resilience in storm recovery or emergency cleanups, where materials are unpredictable.
Naturally, if the grinder is only processing one material source, a dedicated grinder configuration will still be most valid and cost effective. Source
Read MoreBosco Machinery Appointed as TCi Dealer for Germany
Tigercat Industries is pleased to announce that Bosco Machinery has been appointed as the official TCi equipment distributor for Germany. Building on a strong foundation of seven experienced mechanics who already service forestry machinery daily, Bosco is investing in a purpose-built workshop dedicated exclusively to TCi machines. The facility includes a fully organized spare parts area to ensure quick availability and minimal downtime. Source
Ponsse updates us on the outlook for the remainder of the year
The company’s euro-denominated operating profit is estimated to be slightly higher in 2025 than in 2024 (EUR 36.8 million). Economic uncertainty is expected to continue and affect demand for both forest industry end products and forest machinery. Trade policy, the geopolitical situation and economic uncertainty create a challenging operating environment where cost discipline and appropriate investment planning are in the focus. Source
£100 million UK investment unveiled as JCB marks 80th birthday
JCB is marking its 80th birthday with news of a £100 million investment in ultra-modern manufacturing facilities at its global headquarters in the UK. The project at the company’s plant in Rocester, Staffordshire, will see the installation of a fully automated powder paint plant costing £60 million as well as a full modernisation of the shop floor, with new machining centres, friction welders and cylinder boring machines. Source
Read More“Evaluating the work posture of motor-manual debarking worker in an open environment: a preliminary use of a real-time computer vision technique for timber debarking”
International Journal of Forest Engineering, 2025. Gülci, N., Beyzbayrak, E., & Gülci, S. Watt. Source
“Assessment of logging costs and technical productivity in the Miombo Woodland Concession, Sofala Province, Mozambique”
International Journal of Forest Engineering, 2025. Bundua, P., da Silva, D. A., Robert, R. C. G., Behling, A., & Sitoe, A. Source
Read MoreTo see the full list of international logging, roading and trucking conferences and expo’s, please click the “Events” tab at the top of the page.
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