New Holland has unveiled a refreshed lineup of compact self-propelled harvesters: the BRAUD 7.50M, 7.30L, and the all-new 8.50L. These models replace the outgoing 7030M, 7030L and 8030L, bringing improved power, enhanced comfort, advanced cleaning systems, and a modernised operator interface. With the spotlight on the 8.50L, New Holland aims to deliver compact machines that meet the high output demands of modern vineyards, particularly in regions like South Africa, where terrain and row spacings vary significantly.

Innovative Design Meets Gentle Harvesting

Built in Coëx, France—New Holland’s Centre of Excellence for grape harvesters—the BRAUD series has consistently set the benchmark for mechanical grape harvesting since 1975. The new Compact range retains the proven features that made BRAUD a success, while refining them for better output, operator ease and fruit quality. Central to this is the Noria basket conveyor system, a hallmark of BRAUD technology since 1979. The system uses flexible polyurethane baskets that move in sync with the vines, ensuring minimal fruit loss and reduced vine damage.

Another key technology is the SDC system (Shaking Dynamic Control), which allows the operator to adjust shaker intensity from inside the cab. The jack-free design and vibration-isolating components enhance both machine durability and operator comfort. The Opti Grape™ II system takes fruit cleaning further, using finger rotors in combination with a powerful air turbine to remove unwanted material like leaves and stems before the grapes reach the hopper. The Smart MOG (Material Other than Grapes) management system ensures that stalks and debris are removed early and offloaded separately, preserving hopper space and fruit quality.

Cab Comfort for Long Harvest Days

Harvest season often means long shifts in the cab, and New Holland has addressed operator fatigue with a new, ergonomically designed Compact cab. It offers 360-degree visibility, a modern touchscreen camera system, up to 12 LED work lights for night harvesting, and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity. Entry and exit are easier and safer thanks to an electric ladder system. Inside, operators benefit from a premium suspended leather seat with heating, ventilation, lumbar support, and reduced noise levels thanks to upgraded soundproofing.

In areas where spraying operations takes place, the optional Blue Cab™ 4 filtration system protects the operator from airborne chemicals. Safety features include an operator presence sensor, Code 8 compliant cab structure, emergency hammer and seatbelt—standard across the range.

Efficient, Emission-Conscious Powertrains

The BRAUD Compact models are powered by FPT Stage V engines that combines common rail injection with ECOBlue™ HI-eSCR after-treatment. This setup ensures responsive power delivery, low emissions, and excellent fuel efficiency. The hydrostatic transmission has been upgraded for improved performance on slopes and softer ground, while anti-skid braking and powerful wheel motors boost traction in challenging conditions.

The 8.50L model includes CDHA automatic height and lateral tilt correction, enabling it to handle slopes up to 30%. It can also raise by 600 mm to navigate over obstacles. The 7.50M and 7.30L offer up to 500 mm of lift. CustomSteer™ improves manoeuvrability by reducing the number of steering wheel turns required, making in-row tracking and headland turns quicker and easier. Meanwhile, IMS 2.0, a smart engine speed manager, continuously balances engine RPM, hydraulic flow, and drive load to maximise efficiency while conserving fuel.

Smart Controls with IntelliView™ IV Plus

Central to the operator experience is the updated IntelliView™ IV Plus terminal. This touchscreen interface is faster, larger and more responsive than before. It supports multiple live camera feeds to monitor harvesting, hoppers and rear traffic, helping operators stay aware of their surroundings and spot any operational issues quickly. On the 7.50M, an additional display can show up to four cameras, while the L models include a standard rear-view camera.

Multipurpose Capability Beyond Harvest

Each BRAUD Compact model is engineered as more than just a harvester. They are year-round tool carriers compatible with pruning, trimming, canopy management tools, and Berthoud-built sprayers. With the right attachments, the BRAUD can function efficiently throughout the growing season—not just during harvest—making it a valuable investment for any vineyard operation.

Choosing the Right BRAUD for Your Vineyard

The BRAUD 7.50M is tailored for intermediate row widths of approximately 1.3 m. Compact yet powerful, it delivers 144 hp and features a 2,800 L stainless steel hopper, along with excellent in-row stability. The cab is designed to suit its narrower chassis, ensuring operator comfort even on long days.

The BRAUD 7.30L suits wider rows of approximately 1.6 m and offers a solid all-round package with 128 hp, 3,100 L hopper capacity, and the same smart IntelliView™ terminal. It supports a variety of configurations, including tine auger or de-stemmer versions, with optional auto tilt and height correction.

The BRAUD 8.50L stands out as the top-tier model. It combines compact design with high-capacity performance, delivering 144 hp, a longer chassis (2.82 m wheelbase) and a redesigned transmission for tough terrain. With 3,600 L hoppers, wider conveyors and advanced fruit cleaning systems, the 8.50L is ideal for large vineyards seeking high throughput without sacrificing manoeuvrability.

Connectivity, Service, and Uptime

Supporting the BRAUD range is a comprehensive after-sales and digital ecosystem. Genuine Parts, cost-effective Reman components and Petronas-engineered lubricants help reduce long-term costs. Uptime Service and Support provide dealer-performed maintenance and 24/7 seasonal assistance. Telematics via FieldOps™ allow vineyard managers to monitor machine usage, manage operations remotely and enable dealer diagnostics through IntelliCentre.

All New Holland BRAUD Compact harvesters come with a New Holland Uptime Pack—available in Basic, Plus and Premium tiers—bundling support, warranty and maintenance services for better peace of mind and machine longevity.

Conclusion

The new BRAUD Compact range represents a significant step forward in vineyard harvesting technology. Combining 50 years of proven expertise with the latest innovations in comfort, control, and efficiency means that these machines are designed for today’s demanding harvest conditions. Whether you manage steep slopes, high-yield vineyards, or require multi-season functionality, the BRAUD 7.50M, 7.30L and 8.50L offer tailored solutions that deliver cleaner fruit, greater productivity and reduced operator fatigue.

With strong support services and future-ready technology, the new BRAUD Compact range is not just built for this harvest—but for many more to come.