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The new Valtra A series tractors see a range of new transmission options that will appeal to those looking for a compact workhorse.
Recently released in Europe, with expected delivery yet to be confirmed for New Zealand, the new Valtra A series tractors see a range of new transmission options that will get those looking for a compact workhorse.
Making way for the fifth generation of A series, the outgoing A4 tractors were always popular for livestock operations, resulting in more than half the production supplied with factory-fitted front-end loaders.
This fact has not been missed by the new A5’s designers who have focused on introducing powershift transmission options and an upgraded armrest control system usually seen on the company’s larger hp ranges.
At the heart of the tractor, the A5 series retains the three-cylinder, 3.3 litre AgcoPower engine in the three smallest models, while the four larger tractors in the seven-model range get the 4.4 litre, 4-cylinder engine from the same camp.
Horsepower output remains the same for the 3-cylinders, but the 4.4 litre units each gain 5hp over the outgoing A4 series. Both engine formats meet the latest Stage 5 emission regulations using a combination of DPF and SCR technology, with service intervals pushed out to 600 hours.
Like its predecessor, the A5 is offered in three different wheelbases, with three smallest measuring in at 2250mm, the middle pair is stretched to 2430mm and the two largest models are fitted with a 2500mm chassis.
A basic 12F/12R speed GL transmission is the base unit choice for all models, while a two-step powershift HiTech 2 set up, offering 24F/24R speeds is now available on all the three-cylinder models. Elsewhere the mid-range A105 and A115 get the choice of three gearbox options, with the base 12F/12R GL, a 16F/16R HiTech 4, powershift and a 32F/32R speed creeper set up that can get down to 100m/hour. The HiTech 4 unit is controlled electronically, while all models incorporate a F/R shuttle with an integrated handbrake.
Other notable features include the selectable AutoTraction control system, redesigned engine hood and wheels and the main power isolation switch incorporated into the ignition switch. Options include rear fender PTO control on the HiTech 4 models and the Valtra Connect remote monitoring system.
Massey Ferguson has announced a strategic supply partnership with International Tractors Limited (ITL), a manufacturer of low-horsepower and compact tractors, with recognised brands such as Sonalika and Sollis, to expand its portfolio with a new tractor range.
With the biannual Italian EIMA machinery Expo less than a month away, Case IH has taken out a Technical Evolution award for the Advanced Vehicle Suspension system available on its Optum 360–440 series tractors.
The Advanced Vehicle Suspension system, available on Optum 360, 390, and 440 models, responds to changing conditions, automatically adjusting how the suspension reacts to absorbs shocks and controlling vehicle movement.
In operation, sensors monitor the vibrations transmitted from the tractor chassis to the operator cabin, allowing the system to adjust suspension damping in real time. The control system incorporates key priorities, such as comfort at lower speeds and stability as speed increases, while also reacting to factors such as lower tyre pressures, where the tyres absorb more of the initial shock.
Case IH said as suspension requirements change throughout the working day, as tractors move between the paddock and road transport, the system manages suspension response in the background as tasks, speeds and conditions change, leaving the operator without the need to make manual adjustments.
Richard Hollins, Optum series tractors global product manager, said: “Pioneering technology must earn its place in the working day. Farmers and contractors will judge an investment by what it delivers, including manageable ownership costs, dependable up-time and the versatility to tackle different jobs. With AVS, we are putting intelligent control to work for comfort and stability, without giving the operator another setting to manage.”
Organised by FederUnacoma, the Italian Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers Federation, the contest has been part of EIMA since 1986, with the Technical Evolution distinction awarded to products that introduce original improvements to solutions already manufactured or patented.
www.caseih.com
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