The Valtra N Series has entered its fourth generation. According to Valtra, the company has been pioneers in the hp four-cylinder engines since 1969. The Valmet 1100 model was introduced with the world’s first turbocharged four-cylinder tractor engine generating 115hp.

The new N series tractor, based on the six-cylinder T series tractor, bears a striking familiarity to the T series in looks, except for size that is. From what we have seen from the launch this week, it definitely has the styling and the power to compete in this competitive market segment.

The engines

The new N Series features AGCO Power units. The Tier 4 Final engine has a peak boosted performance of 185hp and 730 Nm of torque in the top of the range N 174 model. The six tractors in the range deliver from 105 to 165hp un-boosted and 115 to 185hp boosted (See Table 1).

Valtra’s Sigma Power technology provides 10 extra horsepower when the PTO is under sufficient load for the first five models in the range. The N174 gets a 20hp boost to pump out the 185hp. All models also feature the transport boost function, which provides extra power when driving on the road.

AGCO Power has implemented an SCR-only strategy since 2009, systematically developing SCR solutions. According to Valtra, the result is the most fuel efficient and responsive engine on the market. The N104, N114 and N124 models are powered by four-cylinder 4.4-litre AGCO Power engines, while the N134, N154 and N174 models have 4.9-litre engines.

The SCR system takes care of exhaust emissions without the need for a diesel particulate filter or exhaust gas recirculation system. Valtra claims the SCR-only system reduces fuel consumption and extends engine life.

The N114 and N154 represent Valtra’s traditional EcoPower models in which the driver can select between eco and normal mode. In eco mode, the engine speed is reduced by 10% to 20%, and maximum torque is achieved at lower rpm.

Valtra claims Eco mode reduces fuel consumption by up to 10% compared with the normal driving mode.

New cab

The new cab on the fourth generation N Series is similar to that on the new T Series. The cab offers excellent visibility in all directions, with up to 6.5m2 of glass and it is quiet, with a noise level of less than 70dB, according to Valtra. The cab can be comprehensively specified, with a high-end stereo with integrated woofer, a front windscreen wiper that covers 270°, heated front and rear screens, and a TwinTrac reverse drive system.

Customers who do a lot of front loader work can specify an extra window in the roof that offers a clear view to the loader in its highest position. The N Series is available with either one or two doors.

A new option is the SkyView forest cab, which offers enhanced visibility to the rear and upwards thanks to a large polycarbonate window with wiper. Other forest specifications include narrow mudguards and a 160-litre steel fuel tank. The standard size of the fuel tank is 250 litres, the optional size is 300 litres, and the capacity of the AdBlue tank is 45 litres.

Powershift revolution continues

According to Valtra, the fourth-generation T Series began the revolution in powershift transmissions by making it possible for the first time to operate the powershift like a stepless transmission. The powershift tractors also have a hill-hold feature, a patented hydraulics assistant and Automatic Slip Regulator (ASR).

Valtra claims ASR represents a completely new innovation in the tractor industry. As in passenger cars, the traction control system limits engine power if the sensors and tyre speed exceed a set level. The idea behind ASR is to help the driver maintain the best pulling ratio and fuel efficiency while avoiding damage to the ground.

Transmission

The transmission options on the new N Series are HiTech, Active, Versu and Direct. The first three are five-step powershift transmissions, while the Direct transmission is stepless transmission. The Active, Versu and Direct transmissions also feature load-sensing hydraulics, and customers can select between outputs of 115, 160 or 200 litres per minute.

The HiTech transmission comes with a gear pump producing 73 or 90 litres per minute. The open centre hydraulics on HiTech and Active models are controlled mechanically, while those on Versu and Direct models are controlled electronically. Up to seven hydraulic blocks are available. In addition, four can be in the front. The N104, N114 and N124 are available as HiTech models, while the N134, N154 and N174 are available as HiTech, Active, Versu and Direct models. The N104, N114 and N124 can be specified with HiTrol turbine clutch.

The PTO has three speeds, and ground speed PTO is available as preferred by forest and transport contractors. All the models feature electronic PTO speed selection.

The N Series has a turning radius of just 4.5m and a wheelbase of 2,665 mm, making it very suitable for front loader work. Ground clearance is 550mm, which is important for Valtra given the nature of Scandinavian work in forest and snow.

The service interval is 600 hours. For daily inspections, Valtra has positioned the hydraulic oil level sight gauge in between the steps up to the cab. Valtra claims that the design gives operators a minimum downtime while performing daily checks.

Many new options

The unique touch is still with Valtra despite the AGCO globalisation of products. The N Series is tailor made according to the customer’s preferences at the Valtra factory in Suolahti, Finland.

Hundreds of features and options are available, creating millions of potential combinations. For example, the specification list includes seven different colour options, a pivoting front linkage and an auxiliary heater. The new N Series can be specified also with remote telemetry and the AutoGuide 3000 steering assist system.

Valtra states that The N series is the only range of tractors to offer Autoguide on all models. The Valtra Unlimited studio offers customers more options on chrome leathers seats and a host of other options.