More new Valtras!

By Steven Vale

Valtra will unveil a brand new range of tractors at Agritechnica, aimed specifically at livestock farmers. In fact, it has been designed with front loader work very much in mind. Plus, there's a new range of articulated-steer tractors.

With broadly similar styling to current M, T, and S series tractors, the new C series is the latest tractor range from the Finn. The C is part of a continuing development programme that aims to give all Valtra tractors a more modern image, whilst also providing the end user with plenty of choice.

With the addition of the eight new C and XM tractors, the total number of Valtra models is 31. 29 of these are under 200hp. With this in mind it will be interesting to see just how long the older generation 6000 and 8000 series models remain on the price list!

The C series comprises six four-cylinder models from 90 to 147hp, all of which offer a top speed of 50kph. These are the C90 (90hp), C100 EcoPower (100hp), C110 (110hp), C120 EcoPower (115hp), C130 (130hp) and C150 (147hp). All are fitted with 4.4-litre engines and incorporate viscous fans, with the exception of the C110 and C150 (air-to-air inter-cooling). The two EcoPower models attain their maximum power at just 1800rpm.

An interesting feature of all six newcomers is the weight distribution - 39 / 61%, which is radically different to existing Valtra tractors with a 55 / 45% split. Gone is the familiar sight of the engine overhanging the front axle. This new design also helps to keep the tractor more compact.

When combined with a beefed up front axle and a powershuttle Valtra reckons that these tractors are ideally suited to front loader work. In fact, Valtra says that C series tractors work well even with the company's big 970 loader.

The powershuttle fitted to C series tractors is typical of that used on other Valtra tractors and the load-sensing hydraulics provide a flow rate of 90 litres per minute. The driver's seat rotates through 180 degrees and, although the standard specification includes a heater and ventilation system, it's possible to specify an automatic air-conditioning system.

New XM tractors

In addition to the C series, Valtra is also launching articulated versions of selected M series tractors. Known as the XM130 (130hp) and XM150 (147hp), while largely based on the current four-cylinder M130 and M150 the addition of the central articulation point reduces the turning radius to just 4.5m, depending on tyre size. According to Valtra, the result is a powerful package capable of tight turns. This, says the firm, makes the XM ideally suited to loader work in confined spaces.

Loader operation is via an armrest joystick and both XM models can be equipped with four programmable hydraulic spools at the rear. The operation of these is not affected by the front-end loader.

Furthermore, the fact that the articulation point separates the cab from the engine helps to reduce in-cab noise levels. The 250-litre fuel tank is now located under the cab.

Engines are Valtra's (Sisu's) own 4.4-litre diesel engines and both XM tractors are electronically managed with air-to-air inter-cooling and viscous fans. An additional feature is the addition of the TwinTrac reverse drive system. XM tractors are also available with a glass-roofed cab.

Bigger Sisu engines

Most of the recent news surrounding Valtra's Sisu Diesel engine division concerns the Agco takeover. It is less well known however, that the engine maker will unveil new 3, 4 and 6-cylinder tractor engines up to 340hp at Agritechnica.

Known as the Fortius series, and produced in the Linnavuori engine factory at Nokia, these motors boast 10 to 20% increases in power and torque levels over earlier versions. First fitted to the Valtra T180 and T190 tractors, a key feature is the electronic engine management system. Called EEM2, this controls accurate injection pressure and timing depending on temperature, loading and engine speed.

Valtra milestone

Other news from Valtra includes the fact that it has just produced its 500,000th tractor at the Suolahti facility in Finland. The firm reports that 300,000 of these are still in use. Other news includes a €11.5 million investment at the Suolahti factory to increase new tractor production from 10,000 to 12,000 a year, or 70 new tractors every day.