Construction and farming machinery manufacturer JCB has unveiled the new, more fuel efficient 3000 series Fastrac tractors at the Sungold Field Days in Warnambool, Victoria.
The field days were held from 13 to 15 February 2013.
According to JCB Construction Equipment Australia (JCB CEA), the new models are 10 per cent more fuel efficient and feature numerous design changes that make them even more productive, efficient and easy to use than their predecessors.
JCB CEA’s National Fastrac Product Manager David Moselen says the new tractors were introduced due to high market demand.
“The market told us they wanted tractors with more torque to get the job done faster and these new Fastrac models have been built with powerful and economic performance in mind,” he says.
“Safety and ease of maintenance have been enhanced while retaining the tried and tested Fastrac benefits of high road speeds up to 80 km per hour and operator comfort.”
Models in the new series include the 3230-65 and two Heavy Gross Vehicle Weight (HGVW) models, the 3230-65 HGVW and the 3230-80 HGVW. JCB CEA says the new tractors are ideal for use in the dairy, livestock and cane industries.
Moselen says the three new models have been tested by producers in the UK and Europe who, like Australian producers, are under increasing pressure to get the job done faster while reducing operating costs for maximum profitability.
All three models are powered by 230 hp engines, capable of 270 hp when operating in the top two gears. Road speed on both the 3230-65 and 3230-65 HGVW is rated at 65 km/h and at 80 km/h on the 3230-80 HGVW.
JCB CEA says the models feature a new P-Tronic powershift transmission which provides an optional ECO-Road setting to reduce engine revs and fuel use when travelling at higher speeds, thus enhancing fuel efficient operation.
“The transmission also makes it possible to shift to gears at a time so operators can rapidly move between gears and achieve top speeds faster when travelling unloaded between sites,” Moselen says.
The new design features a larger fuel tank with a capacity of 400 litres compared to 350 litres on the previous models, delivering longer operation between refuelling.
To enable precision farming for increased efficiency and reduced input costs, all models come GPS Autosteer-ready. This provides accuracy to within two centimetres, even when travelling at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
Along with the engine and its components, the tractor design has been reworked with a new chassis, fender and bonnet which according to JCB CEA will improve performance and safety while making ongoing maintenance easier.
“The new chassis is narrower to provide a better turning circle and thereby increased productivity in-field,” Moselen says.
“For increased safety, we’ve moved to a one-piece pivoting fender. This design reduced road and mud spray so even in wet conditions, operators can be confident of superior visibility.”
JCB CEA says the new lightweight bonnet has a one touch unlockable design that provides fast access to key engine components hence allowing easier maintenance.
“The bonnet lifts higher than the previous models, further adding to the ease of access” Moselen says.
“We’ve also moved the fuel tank to the left hand side of the tractor, on the same side as the cab door, making refuelling easier and faster for busy operators.”
JCB CEA guarantees operator comfort with the new models, as with all other Fastrac mdoels.
“The low noise level cab is spacious and a smooth ride is guaranteed with our all-round suspension with integrated chassis,” Moselen says.
JCB CEA urges those interested in test driving the new 3000 series Fastrac tractors to contact their local dealers.