When Nils Olav Koppergård Grøstad first started using Smart Farming technology, it was mostly out of curiosity and self-interest. Today, Valtra Guide and Connect are useful tools in everyday life, and more technology is making its way into the farm.
Nils Olav Koppergård Grøstad is keen to utilize Smart Farming technology to increase profitability in operations and be able to focus on the quality of what he delivers. Photo: Lars Ovlien.
"At first, I thought all the technology was expensive, and thought it was a hobby. But after using Valtra Guide for several years, I am sure that the costs will be saved quickly," explains Nils Olav Koppergård Grøstad from Tranby in Lier municipality, Norway.
He and his wife took over the farm Øvre Søndre Sørsdal from his parents in 2018 and the main business is milk production. In addition to 550 tonnes of milk quota, he farms 1000 acres of grass and grain on his own, as well as 500 acres together with others. He offers rental driving during the season and snow ploughing in the winter.
"I've been driving Valtra for 15 years, since my father bought an N92 in 2010. It is still in use, mainly for the daily work in the barn."
In addition, Grøstad has an N175 from 2024 and a T234 that will soon be replaced with a T235. These two are out in the field or in rental driving. All tractors have front hydraulics, PTO and a loader.
"The few times something happens; we get help right away. Valtras are good tractors, and a lot has happened with comfort and technology over the past 15 years. Nevertheless, the service we receive from Akershus Traktør Mjøndalen is the most important reason why we drive Finnish tractors."
Since he first started using Valtra Guide in 2020, Grøstad has become a bit of a technology savvy.
"First and foremost, I started with Valtra Guide and Section Control for fertiliser application, because I thought I would save money. However, once you get to grips with the technology, you quickly realise that you get much less tired as well. When you don't have to aim straight all the time, you can keep an eye on the tool in a different way and fine-tune along the way for the best possible quality. You also save money on both input factors and diesel."
When he soon gets a new T235, it will be equipped with the Central Tire Inflation System, among other things.
"It is primarily in terms of ground pressure and driving tracks. I already use Valtra Connect to document where I've driven and monitor my diesel consumption. Valtra Guide is used when I transport manure, spread, and mow grass – the only limit is my imagination. It is important to utilise the technology that is available to increase efficiency and profitability," Grøstad emphasises.
The 15-year-old Valtra N92 model that Nils Olav Koppergård Grøstad's father bought in 2010 is still in use, mainly in the barn.
