Finnish tractor manufacturer Valtra has lifted the lid on its new T series tractors which the company says have been designed "from a clean sheet of paper".
The fourth generation T Series models range from 155 hp to 250 hp with up to 1000 Nm of torque for the most demanding of applications.
They were officially unveiled to the public in a launch event held in Wörth am Main in Germany last month that was attended by about 1500 dealers, importers and journalists.
The event was spread over two weeks where attendees had the chance to test drive the new machines with an assortment of implements attached.
Valtra says the new T series, comprising of seven models including the T144, T154, T174, T174 Eco, T194, T214 and T234; has been well received by the public so far with orders for over 1000 units placed.
The tractors will be delivered to Finland, France and Germany first with deliveries to other countries to follow as soon as production is ramped up.
The new T series will be available in four variants: Direct, Versu, Active and HiTech. Direct, Versu and Active models are already in production while HiTech will enter production next year.
Active is a new line that features a powershift transmission and mechanically operated load-sensing hydraulics.
According to Valtra, the new Versu, Active and HiTech models revolutionise the way powershift tractors are driven. The clutch pedal is only required when starting the engine. The brake pedals also control the clutch and the AutoTraction automatic clutch function is always activated.
The powershift now operates with a new logic, in that the accelerator pedal does not control the engine speed but instead the driving speed similar to driving a stepless Direct transmission.
Valtra adds the system is a big help when using PTO-driven implements as the driver can change powershift gears and adjust the speed simply by pressing the accelerator pedal. This leaves the driver’s hands free to control the tractor and implement.
The powershift system also has unique features, including a hill-hold function and hydraulics assistant which facilitates front-loader operation. Valtra’s powershift is a five-step transmission, providing a total of 20 speeds in four gear ranges plus 10 speeds in the creeper ranges.
Engine
All T series models are powered by AGCO Power engines; the two smallest models by a 6.6-litre engine while bigger models have a displacement of 7.4 litres.
Exhaust emission are minimised by a Stage 4-standard SCR system. The turbo on the latest engines features an electronic bypass valve, so the engine responds rapidly and offers excellent torque even at low revs.
Valtra says the SCR system and optimised turbo and engine package results in excellent fuel efficiency and eliminates the need for an exhaust gas recirculation system or diesel particulate filter. The T174 model is also available with Valtra’s EcoPower feature which aids in reducing fuel consumption.
Spacious cab
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| Valtra’s new T series workhorses with new engines, new cab and new styling |
According to Valtra, the new T series’ most striking feature is its brand new cab which the company says is stylish, spacious and quiet.
Pillars that curve outwards maximise interior space for the driver while keeping the external dimensions compact.
The cab is now 20 cm wider by the driver’s seat compared to the previous generation.
Electrically heated front and rear screens, a front windscreen wiper sweeping 270 degrees, factory-fitted parking cameras, LED working and rear lights and six square metres of glass combine to offer the operator superior visibility.
Driver comfort is enhanced by a stereo with subwoofer, a cool box, a TwinTrac reverse-drove system that can be adjusted laterally and a factory-fitted, fuel powered and phone-operated auxiliary heater. Valtra says some features are standard while others can be ordered from Valtra’s option list.
The tractor’s turning radius is a tight 5.25m even with a front loader, pneumatic front axle and front linkage.
The tractor weights 7.3 tonnes and has a ground clearance of 60cm.
The upgraded linkage at the rear of the tractors can lift up to 9.5 tonnes while the integrated front linkage has a capacity of 5.1 tonnes.
Ease of use and servicing
Valtra says special attention have been paid to the ease of use and maintenance when designing the new T series. Service intervals are 600 hours and checking the oil on a daily basis is easy thanks to the inspection windows.
The new T series is also available with both the AutoGuide steering assist system and AgCommand telemetry.
AutoGuide uses satellite and correction signals to steer the tractor accurately to within a cm. The AgCommand remote monitoring system allows the owner to monitor the use of the tractor, anticipate servicing requirements and compile operating data that can be used by contractors for invoicing purposes.
The new Valtra T series tractors are expected to arrive on Australian shores in mid-2015.
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