McCormick is set to display a range ofmachines, including some of its higher horsepower tractors, at the Ploughing Championships next week. Taking centre stage on the stand will be the X7 flagship X7.690, which boosts to 225hp.

The X7.690 has been doing the rounds on demonstration over the summer. It’s powered by a 6.7l six-cylinder Betapower engine that’s built by FPT Industrial, the successor to the Iveco diesel business. The engine meets Tier 4 emissions regulations using advanced SCR, an exhaust gas after-treatment technology.

The X7 range comes with a choice of two transmissions: the power-shift P6-Drive or the CVT VT-Drive.

The P6-Drive has six power-shifts with five ranges in each.

The VT-Drive is a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Both transmissions have a power shuttle lever on the left side of the steering column, while speed controls are in the right-hand multi-function controller.

The P6-Drive transmission can be controlled either manually or automatically, using the auto powershift (APS) feature. APS, based on load conditions such as the engine speed and rpm, allows the tractor itself to automatically select the right gear in each range. This feature is engaged or disengaged using a button on the armrest, or by pressing the brakes. The engine speed parameters can be adjusted from the APS dial in the armrest.

IsoBus implement control for the optional 12in touch-operated Data Screen Manager display and Topcon Agriculture precision farming technologies can be added to the tractor.

X6.4 series

The X6.440 VT-Drive scooped the Tractor of the Year award last year.

McCormick will also be displaying its new X6.4 series. This will include the X6.440 VT-Drive, which scooped up the Tractor of the Year award last year.

The range is made up of six models, all of which are powered by Beta Power engines equipped with the Power Plus system that offers power ratings from 121hp to 140hp. The X6.4 tractors feature an electronically controlled rear hitch with 6,000kg maximum lift capacity, a four-speed PTO and a closed-centre hydraulic system that delivers a flow rate of 110l/min.

The range offers the choice of two transmissions, the Xtrashift, with three-stage powershift (H-M-L), or the VT-Drive (CVT). Both tractor versions share the same cab, axles and hydraulic system. The X6.4 is equipped with a new four-post cab.