However, year-to-date data reflects sales below 2023 in total units of ag tractors and combines. Ag tractor sales dipped 14.2%, while combines finished under 18.9%.

In Canada, combine sales jumped 27.2% in February 2024 compared to 2023, and are up a total of 6.3% year-to-date compared to last year. 131 combines were sold in February, adding to the overall year-to-date sales of 255 units.

“The combine sales in Canada are a bright spot when we take a deeper look at February’s performance.

The uptick in sales of 100+ horsepower ag tractors in the U.S. also bodes well for the long-term strength of our industry moving forward.”

affirms AEM Senior Vice President Curt Blades.

Total ag tractor sales fell in Canada by 28.2% year-to-date compared to 2023.

The Ag Tractor and Combine reports can be found on the AEM Market Share Statistics page.

Source: AEM

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All AEM member companies who sell, distribute or manufacture tires or products using tires in Ontario are responsible for meeting mandatory and enforceable targets for collecting and recycling used tires. Ontario’s new tire stewardship program is now up and running under a new program administered under the Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority.

In the wake of the passage and implementation of the Resource Recovery and Circular Economy Act of 2016, which establishes “producer” responsibility for diverting spent tires from the waste stream, affected companies should be signed up with one of six Producer Responsibility Organizations. The organizations, more commonly known as PROs, assist in the manage tracking, collection, recycling and government reporting requirements and help companies ultimately fulfill the law’s requirements.

AEM strongly advises all member companies doing business in Ontario to consider working with a PRO. Failing to comply with the new law will result in fines and a possible sales ban.

AEM continues to meet with regulators in Ontario highlighting our industry’s concerns.

Source: Association of Equipment Manifacturers (AEM)

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The project, code named TETRA, shows how professional construction operators could help spearhead the move away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles toward renewable sources by playing a fundamental role in the “closed loop” virtuous cycle, which sees methane-powered wheel loaders help produce the fuel from waste products and renewable sources, which ultimately powers them. And although this is a concept, CASE, a global construction brand of CNH Industrial N.V., is already working towards ultimate market viability.

This concept re-imagines wheel loader design, and is a clear departure from anything seen in construction equipment to date. This methane-powered wheel loader concept reflects the increasing importance of alternative fuels, and demonstrates their viability in construction equipment, as well as the feasibility of creating and using fuel generated from waste products and renewable sources.

Furthermore, CASE has proactively combined alternative fuels and advanced construction technology to create a modern, sustainable solution to the need for ‘future proof’ power, utilizing readily available and proven powertrain technology. “Practical Innovation” is inherent in the brand’s product development philosophy, to innovate through the pragmatic use of advanced technology. As a result, this concept is more than a mere exercise in design, and it has been tested in real-world construction environments to demonstrate its feasibility.

A Full Day’s Autonomy

The new methane-powered wheel loader concept represents a significant technological advance for CASE, being the brand’s first alternative fuel vehicle. This projects benefits from the existing research and development program of sister brand New Holland Agriculture, in off-road methane usage, with over seven years of experience and an extensive global testing program.

The CASE concept uses an FPT Industrial six-cylinder methane engine that has been specifically developed for construction applications and delivers maximum power of 230 hp – identical to the equivalent diesel power plant  –  and torque up to 1,184 Nm. This is achieved with a 50% reduction in drive-by noise levels, which makes it suited for municipal applications and when working in close proximity to offices, residential areas and people. The engine also offers the same reliability and durability and fuel savings up to 30%. It  runs on compressed natural gas (CNG), ensuring 15% less CO2 and 99% less particulate matter than its diesel-based counterpart.

The engine features stoichiometric combustion technology, developed by FPT Industrial and first introduced in 1995. It ensures the correct chemical balance between air and methane in every working condition, delivering clean combustion and low emissions. The technology is applied across the entire natural gas engine portfolio as it enables comparative performance to diesel engines, while delivering ultra-low emissions and high efficiency.

The loader is able to complete the full range of tasks that a standard diesel-powered wheel loader would undertake. From efficient work in quarries, waste handling facilities, agricultural applications, and wood yards through to municipal applications, and those which require extensive transport, this concept machine delivers optimal performance in a productive and sustainable package. Furthermore, it is compatible with the complete range of buckets, and was fitted with high tip and quarry versions from Leonardi Benne during the initial testing activities.

To make efficient use of space, the loader’s fuel is stored within technologically advanced tanks within a sleek and integrated storage unit fitted at the rear and sides of the wheel loader. This configuration enables a full day of autonomy. The wheel loader is as easy to refuel as one powered conventionally by diesel, using a single nozzle, from ground level, and with comparable filling time.

Due to the reduction in polluting emissions arising from methane combustion, a simplified aftertreatment system is used, which features a maintenance-free single standard catalytic converter.

Power Choices

Biomethane is produced using a cyclical system that delivers CO₂ neutral production. It particularly suits wheel loader applications, especially those employed in waste handling situations or on farms, as they handle the raw materials which are used to produce the biomethane which fuels them. This enables these businesses not only to be fuel sufficient, but also energy sufficient, as biomethane can be burned to generate electricity to power buildings, as well as to satisfy any heating requirements. In addition, it can be fed into the gas grid for domestic purposes, and can be used to create electricity to be fed into the national grid to power communities, creating a truly virtuous cycle.

For operations that do not have the resources to produce their own biomethane, the methane-powered wheel loader concept can be powered by conventional network natural gas. This is of particular interest to waste handling facilities and to urban and suburban operations, which have ready access to the natural gas grid. These facilities, with a moderate investment, can install an on-site compression system, which extracts natural gas from the grid, and subsequently compresses it to fuel-grade pressure, providing instant and constant refueling. This infrastructure can be further leveraged by these businesses, as eventual gas powered trucks transporting goods to and from the sites could also be fueled using this technology, further enhancing the sustainable profile of the operation.

Innovative, Productivity-focused Design

CNH Industrial’s international design team have re-imagined wheel loader styling, starting from a blank sheet to create a viable vision for the future of wheel loader design. Iconic CASE styling cues provided inspiration: the‘Old Abe’ eagle has been distilled in the rear engine cover. Key design features accentuate the overall styling and include a forward cab stance; high-visibility 360° glazing, 16% more than a standard wheel loader; a high-visibility roof panel, which provides the operator with an unfettered view of the bucket throughout the entire loading arc; and an industry-first sliding door.

The dynamic air intakes in the engine cover and downward mounted exhaust provide an “aggressive’ stance.” Overall design unity is achieved through a carefully conceived design language which sees the loader arms, fenders, cab, rear wings, engine cover and counterweight melded into a unified whole.

A complete LED lighting package features signature lighting, with lights integrated into the loader arms, front fenders, front- and rear-mounted roof work lights, rear lights integrated into the rear fenders and engine cover, and stop and hazard lights nestling in the rear counterweight. Operators can select auto mode, in which all working lights are automatically activated in low ambient light conditions, or manual operation, in which they select the required lights. Ambient power-tan cab lighting can also be selected.

A range of technologically advanced materials have been used to improve the operator environment to enhance comfort, reduce fatigue and facilitate cleaning. The cab has been trimmed in a robust cream-colored technical cloth, which can be easily wiped down for swift cleaning. This is paired with a chestnut color leather on key touch points. The durable stone floor reinforces the objective to deliver practical design, and the feature aluminum kick plate and floor inlay elevate the interior. This is combined with soft touch aluminum grab handles and carbon fiber fenders to complete the modern look.

A custom metallic fleck CASE ‘power-tan’ paint finish was commissioned for the concept model, and subtly enhances the machines distinctive lines, while cementing its link to the CASE family. The powdered anthracite finish on the metal exterior elements offers enhanced weather- and dirt-proof properties. Traditional CASE elements such as the new Power-Abe eagle emblem have been integrated into the engine cover, loader arm supports and the CASE name has been inlayed into the top step and loader arms.

The minimalist design of the cab offers intuitive, clutter-free operation, with instant access to all key controls via ergonomic joysticks and an integrated, armrest-mounted, color touchscreen monitor. The armrest-mounted monitor is the operating hub, and can be used to control the following functions:

• Face scan to activate start-up sequence.
• Bucket load-fill assist screen which displays target load, current bucket load, via loader arm mounted sensors, and remaining load.
• Jobsite map, which tracks incoming trucks, indicates the fastest route to the selected work area and displays general site information.
• Weather screens showing real-time weather reports.
• Lighting parameters, Bluetooth telephone, heating and ventilation and music controls.
• Access to secondary machine parameters, machine settings and additional submenus.

All of these settings can be directly modified on the touchscreen. Upon request, the screen can be swiped from the armrest monitor the lower right-hand A-Pillar screen. When no longer required, the operator simply selects another screen from the armrest monitor to swipe and replace.

The inclined A-Pillar screens have been mounted to align with the cab’s pillars and provide at-a-glance key information:

• The top right and left screens display the front and rear camera feed. Cab-mounted cameras replace traditional wing mirrors, and the display is automatically linked to the direction of travel, changing in sync with machine shuttling.
• The central right A-Pillar screen features all key machine operating parameters including machine speed, engine speed, fuel level, engine and oil temperature, selected gear, engine hours and time.
• The lower right screen can be customized, and enables operators to select, using the armrest color touchscreen, the desired view.
• Voice control functionality has been integrated into the cab, through the use of ‘home hub’ technology – a device integrated into the cab roof, which uses Internet of Things technology to action verbal commands. Operators can control cab temperature, select music, make and receive calls and dictate messages using this technology.

Remote machine priming occurs through the use of a retina scan on a connected mobile telephone. This enables operators to remotely initiate cab warming, cooling or defrost functions.

The new cosseting seat automatically extends and pivots to facilitate entry upon door opening, returning to the operating position immediately after the operator is seatedt. This functionality can be manually overridden if desired. Produced in a two-tone finish, the leather accents add a touch of automotive luxury and are complemented by a robust heavy-duty fabric. The entire seat features integrated heating and cooling – designed to keep the operator cool in hot weather and insulate them in cooler periods. Active, weight compensated suspension and fully-adjustable lumbar support enhance comfort for all operators.

An advanced full-cab heating and cooling package has been designed to ensure full body comfort. A range of vents have been precision positioned in the headliner, and in an ideal arc around the operator to ensure optimal full body comfort.

The full range of telematics solutions has been integrated, connecting this concept to a control room, which is manned 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and ensures optimal machine operation at all times. Fleet managers can communicate directly with the concept through on-board audio and text messaging, enabling the operator to fine tune machine parameters, such as tire pressure to enhance operating efficiency and productivity, from the comfort of the cab.

Safety First Design

Jobsite safety is a top priority for today’s construction equipment professionals, and ensuring that only fully-qualified operators have access to machines is essential. That is why biometric facial recognition technology has been integrated into the access and start-up sequence. A door-mounted facial scanning sensor, scans the operators face, upon approach, to activate door opening. Once the operator is in the cab, a second scan is conducted from the armrest monitor for final confirmation and to initiate the start-up sequence.

Elements of CNH Industrial’s autonomous vehicle development program have been incorporated into the machine’s design. Advanced obstacle detection technology, which automatically brings the machine to a halt and informs the operator if an obstacle comes into range, is available to further enhance jobsite safety.

Advanced Tire Technology

In order to spotlight the key role tire technology plays in machine productivity, the CNH Industrial and MICHELIN design teams worked in partnership to develop a vision for a future airless tire. This cutting edge design foresees a fusion of the tire/wheel combination and features inbuilt suspension. Furthermore, thanks to its pure rubber and patented composite material construction, it has been designed to withstand the extreme conditions present in construction environments, and could be considered indestructible.

The tire’s honeycomb spoke design is lightweight yet robust and thanks to its bespoke asymmetric tread pattern traction, motricity and grip are significantly improved. The tripod blocks on the inner tread section enhance overall operational stability, as well as assisting turning performance. The airless tires reduce overall machine weight and its large footprint delivers low contact pressure. The striking edge bumpers improve overall tire robustness as well as enhancing protection for extended life. Advanced connectivity is foreseen with integrated sensors providing a stream of real-time data to both the operator and the control room – including a tire wear sensor. When active, the integrated sidewall lights are illuminated, which also function as an additional safety feature.

Source:  Redhead Equipment news

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Galileo Wheel, cutting-edge developers of advanced tires for farming and construction machinery, are set to release their new Galileo SkidCup – the only tire that uses the latest CupWheel technology for improved grip, traction and efficiency in addition to extended machinery lifetime, increased comfort, and zero downtime with the run flat capability.

When operating in harsh working environments, skid-steer operators often face the inevitable and frustrating delays that result from downtime and increased tread wear-out – not to mention the financial losses. The Galileo SkidCup removes these common drawbacks from skid-steer operation, ensuring your machinery functions to a high level for longer, greatly improving work efficiency and reducing operational costs. Not only that: the SkidCup tire offers much greater comfort while driving, making the working day less stressful and more productive. This also translates to reduced maintenance costs.

At almost double the footprint of other tires, the SkidCup offers better traction and grip for smoother operation and greater accuracy. In addition to the clear comfort benefits, this has a direct benefit to profitability. The increased efficiency granted by the SkidCup tire leads to greater outputs.

Skid-steer operators are all too familiar with the rapid deterioration found in most tires. That’s why the SkidCup tire can guarantee decreased treadwear and safe “double V shape” side walls for extended tire life, letting you spend more time achieving productivity goals and less time on maintenance.

The SkidCup larger foot print and improved “spring rate” creates a smoother ride on all terrains and greater lateral stability.

In addition, the SkidCup offers  greater load index and run-flat capabilities, putting an end to unnecessary downtime, finishing your work day faster and to a higher standard.

“The SkidCup Tire makes decreased performance and uncomfortable skid-steer operation a thing of the past,” said Avishay Novoplanski, CupWheel inventor and Chief Technology Officer at Galileo Wheel. “At Galileo Wheel, we put the highest value on user experience and efficiency.”

The SkidCup Tire helps skid-steer operators achieve more in their daily work while experiencing greater comfort. This is the first time skid-steer operators will have encountered tires like this – Galileo Wheel has been developing this technology for years, and it does not disappoint.”

The Galileo SkidCup tires fit seamlessly over all existing rims and skid steer platforms, with no need to modify or adjust any aspect of your existing machinery.

“As a business, we focus our resources on ensuring our products meet the high standards that operators and owners expect – as they should – of their everyday machinery,” added Rami Einav, Marketing & Sales Director at Galileo Wheel. “The Galileo SkidCup Tire takes skid-steer operation to the next level, delivering a user experience that’s not just pleasurable but profitable.”

The Galileo SkidCup offers all of the advantages of pneumatic tires, solid tires and rubber tracks combined, without any compromises. For your skid-steer, choose a tire that boosts uptime and cuts costs. Choose a tire that offers greater comfort and durability. Choose the Galileo SkidCup.

Don’t miss out on a skid-steer experience that increases profitability and eliminates your daily frustrations. The Galileo SkidCup tire will be available at the SIMA show Hall 7 booth B14.

Source: Galileo wheel

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Structural 30 mounted: the first mounted 3-row belt planter on the market (NEW)

The mounted Structural 30, which plants three rows in a bed as standard, is the very first of its kind on the market. The unveiling of this planter comes little more than a year after the launch of the trailed variant in late 2017. A unique aspect of the mounted planter is its automatic depth control via an ultrasonic sensor, which is insusceptible to track formation and is infinitely adjustable via the control terminal in the tractor cabin. This guarantees depth control with extremely close precision, so the seed potatoes can always grow optimally. The mounted variant is also exceptionally manoeuvrable, making it ideal for planting fields with smaller headlands.

Moreover, the mounted Structural 30 guarantees the same high potato-friendliness and the same phenomenal ease-of-use as the trailed variant. For example, the planter also features the ‘Wave Belt’ concept, which is unique to the Structural 30. This undulating belt bed makes planting on hilly terrain simpler and more relaxed for the driver. Thanks to the renowned, unique Structural belt bed planting system, the machine also combines extreme planting precision with a high driving speed (up to 12 km/h).

In good company

Dewulf will also be bringing an RA3060 Essential − their sharply priced, self-propelled 2-row sieving harvester − to SIMA. This universal standard configuration of the highly acclaimed R3060, based on feedback from growers, was launched at Interpom (BE) in November 2018. With its starting price of €288,000 it can count on plenty of interest. Standard equipment includes: LED lights, 8 infrared cameras and an axial module.

Source: Dewulf news

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Compact powerhouse

Because of the fact that building sites are often very narrow and there is not a lot of space to work in, customers have the demand for an agile loader with narrow wheelbase that can lift and transport heavy loads. The G3500 X-TRA distinguishes itself by a high tipping load (3,990 kg) compared to its own weight (3,600 kg). Depending on the choice of tires, the loader has a width between 134 and 165 centimeters. The height is below 2.27 meters so narrow and low passages are no problem and the machine can be used inside as well.

To guarantee the right performance and fuel efficient operation, the G3500 X-TRA is powered by a new 48.5 kW/66 HP diesel engine from Kubota. The engine is equipped with a catalytic converter (DOC) and soot filter (DPF) and is prepared for Stage V emission regulations. Whether transporting large quantities of loads or rough-working activities, the hydrostatic 4-wheel drive with automotive control (Bosch Rexroth) and 100% switchable lock on both, 14-tons, axles prevents the machine from losing grip – even on loose soil. A driving speed of 30 km/h allows customers to travel fast from one building site to another or to transport materials in no time.

Multi-purpose machine

This compact wheel loader can be used in high-building, roadworks as well as underground work and presents itself as a versatile helper on restricted sites. A wide range of attachments transforms the G3500 X-TRA in a multi-purpose machine. Attach pallet forks and the G3500 X-TRA will transport complete pallets with cobblestones or move barriers. Change the attachment for a sweeper and keep building sites clean and tidy. Or use a snow blade during the winter season to keep roads and sidewalks free from snow. By choosing the right attachment it is possible to adjust the G3500 X-TRA to all working conditions and the machine can be used all year round.

First class operator comfort

The spacious cab of the new G3500 X-TRA was redesigned for more functionality and a new, modern look. Providing the operators a comfortable and safe working environment with great visibility for efficient all day operation. New features include a fully adjustable steering column and luxury air suspended seat. All necessary information (oil temperature, regeneration, etc.) can easily be read from a central LCD display during work. While using the joystick, the operator can rest his arm on ergonomically shaped armrest. The compact loader is standard equipped with a, EU certified, safety roof and this can optionally be extended to a full-option cabin.

Easy maintenance and the right back-up

Maintenance is easy with the G3500 X-TRA is easy because the service points are easy to reach. Filters, hydraulic system and engine can be freely accessed via the easy-to-open bonnet, tilting cab or other service panels. This reduces downtime because daily checks and maintenance can be carried out quickly and in a safe manner.

At TOBROCO-GIANT we offer support, service and high quality parts to protect the investment that customers have made in GIANT Machinery. Together with a large network of dedicated dealers we are ready to make sure that machines perform in the best possible way. This increases productivity and will result in an even better return on your investment.

Source: Tobroco-Giant news

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John Deere presented the first fully electric tractor, known as the SESAM (Sustainable Energy Supply for Agricultural Machinery), in 2016. The GridCON tractor looks very different to its predecessor, as it features no cab and no rows of batteries underneath the bonnet. It is the first vehicle to be fully electric, permanently cable powered and capable of fully autonomous operation in the field.

Based on a John Deere 6210R tractor, GridCON utilises a cable connection from the field border to the machine, which transfers power continuously at over 300kW. A 100kW electric motor powers the IVT transmission, and there is an additional outlet for implements powered by a 200kW electric motor.

A drum fixed to the tractor carries up to 1000m of cable, although the length can be extended if required. In the field, the cable is fed out and reeled in while guided by a robot arm to keep the operation friction free and at low load. An intelligent guidance system is also used to prevent the tractor running into or over the cable.

At work, the tractor follows preset rows fully autonomously at operating speeds of up to just over 12mph (20kph). The vehicle can also be guided manually using a remote control, which is particularly useful when manoeuvring the tractor to start work on field borders for example.

A power supply of 2.5kV AC is required, and the GridCON tractor uses a 700V DC bus for electric power distribution both onboard and for implements. The machine employs a cooling infrastructure for off-board electrical use, while total efficiency of the drivetrain is in the region of 85 per cent.

Total empty weight of the working prototype GridCON tractor including cable drum and robot arm is about 8.5 tonnes, so it is about the same weight as a conventional John Deere 6195R tractor but with twice as much power. Research engineers are aiming to reduce the weight further by at least one tonne.

Besides this favourable power to weight ratio, the concept offers the twin benefits of noiseless and emission-free operation. Compared to battery-powered tractors, the GridCON tractor also delivers around 50 per cent lower machine and operating costs.

Source: John Deere news

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Ammann has introduced the ARX 91 Articulated Tandem Roller, a machine that is able to compact from thin to thick asphalt layers in fewer passes with its high compaction output.

“A combination of drum dimensions, frequencies and amplitudes provide productivity and flexibility on a variety of jobsites,” said Dhruv Patel, Global Product Strategy – Machines. “The combination of features and setting possibilities, in addition to a unique propulsion system, help the ARX 91 efficiently achieve optimum compaction results. ”The machine´s high output enables compaction goals to be met in minimal passes. “The ARX 91 can reach the same compaction goals as heavier competitive models – but with lower fuel consumption and reduced operation and maintenance costs,” Patel said.

Applications include medium and large jobsites, including paving projects related to infrastructure, such as roads, airfields, harbours and parking lots. The ARX is particularly adept at compacting from thin to thick layers of asphalt.

The compactor utilises a Cummins BS-III/Tier 3/Stage 3A engine. With a weight of 9 tonnes, it serves a highly demanded market segment. The machine’s propulsion system is unique to the market. It utilises an efficient hydraulic system, traction control and speed sensors. This enables smooth starts and stops that improve asphalt mat quality. The location of the engine in the rear of the roller is another advantage. This placement helps drive vibration away from the operator and toward the compaction target. It also improves visibility and redirects heat from the operator, thereby increasing comfort.

The machine’s electronic joystick controls are intuitive, helping even inexperienced operators succeed. A tight turning radius improves operator control and manoeuvrability. A large water tank (1000 litres) minimises the need for refills.

The ARX 91 has maximum working speed of 7 km/h, maximum travel speed of 12 km/h and gradeability of up to 40 per cent.

Ammann Compaction Expert (ACE), Ammann’s proprietary Intelligent Compaction system, is available as an option. ACE monitors density and provides feedback, helping to reduce the number of passes. It also eliminates both overcompaction and undercompaction and reduces fuel consumption.

Ease of maintenance is an added benefit. All service and maintenance points can be accessed from the ground, and bearings are self-lubricating.

Source: Amman news

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John, Maurice and Douglass Steiger, the father and sons who built the first Steiger articulated 4wd tractor more than 60 years ago, have been inducted into the Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ Hall of Fame, the North American organisation’s acknowledgement of contributions made to the development of productive agriculture through engineering advancement. The recognition comes as celebrations begin to mark 50 years since manufacturing of Steiger tractors began in Fargo, North Dakota, USA, the city where production remains today. The business became part of Case IH in 1986, and since 1996 Quadtrac tracked articulated variants have been produced in Fargo alongside Steiger wheeled models.

The AEM Hall of Fame was founded in 2008, since when it has honoured pioneering individuals who have invented, managed, built and led the off-road equipment industry. In doing so, it strives to instil a deeper public understanding and appreciation for the continuing role of the industry in global business success and continued growth for modern standards of living, says the AEM. Inductees to the Hall of Fame must exemplify five guiding principles: innovation, industry contributions, leadership, corporate citizenship/social responsibility and sustainability.

Designed to boost agricultural productivity

The first Steiger tractor was built during the winter of 1957-58, when John Steiger and sons Maurice and Douglass sought to improve the timeliness of operations by raising workrates when performing key field tasks on their farm in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. While most high-end tractors of the time were two-wheel drive and offered less than 100hp, the Steiger family decided to create a machine offering more than double that output, incorporating more robust components, four-wheel drive with equal-sized wheels and articulated steering for good manoeuvrability. Nicknamed ‘Barney’, the first Steiger tractor, painted a distinctive lime-green, had a power output of 238hp.

When neighbouring farmers began to notice the machine at work, they asked the Steiger family to build them something similar, and after designing an additional 118hp model a full series of 150-300hp Steiger tractors was put into production in converted farm buildings. Outside investment in the business saw manufacturing move in 1969 to full factory premises in Fargo, North Dakota, where the first of the famous ‘cat-named’ models, the Wildcat, began production. This facility was soon outgrown, and in 1975 work was completed on a new factory, also in Fargo, where Steiger production remains.

Continuous evolution

Since Steiger became part of Case IH in 1986, the legacy of the founders and the principles of the products they created have continued to be an inherent part of Case IH Steiger and Quadtrac design, with the two brand names have long been synonymous with innovation in wheeled and tracked articulated high-horsepower tractors. In 1996, Quadtrac was the first four-tracked high-horsepower tractor to enter the market, while both Steiger wheeled and Quadtrac tracked models were the first of their respective types to offer the operating and fuel-saving benefits of continuously-variable transmission technology, with the addition of a CVXDrive option.

The current range of Case IH Steiger tractors includes models of up to 628hp in Steiger wheeled and Quadtrac tracked variants with powershift transmissions. In addition, Case IH offers CVXDrive continuously-variable transmission versions of Steiger wheeled and Quadtrac tracked versions up to 540hp. Since the first machines were made, over 80,000 wheeled and tracked Steiger tractors have been produced.

“We have continued to evolve the Steiger product, just as the the Steiger family did,” points out Dan Stuart, Product Marketing Director for Case IH Europe, Africa and Middle East.

“And in the same way we have stayed true to the principle of providing customers with solutions to their challenges around the world. Very few tractors can claim to be operating on all seven of the world’s continents – including the Antarctic – or have twice taken the world ploughng record, providing clear evidence of Steiger’s continued focus on rugged design and adaptability”.

Source: CNH Industrial news release

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To improve their connectivity for precision farming operations, from spring 2019 the tractors will be available AutoTrac and ISObus-ready. JDLink telematics will also be available ex-factory, together with remote display access (RDA) five-year subscription.

Other new features include an extendable pick-up hitch with hydraulic push-back through the rear SCVs to improve rear visibility, and variable ratio steering (VRS). This requires AutoTrac for operation and is selectable through a dedicated switch on the tractor cab’s B-post.

The 5090R, 5100R, 5115R and 5125R tractors are equipped with fuel efficient, Stage IIIB compliant 4.5-litre John Deere PWX engines. These diesel-only four-cylinder engines deliver 10 extra hp for transport applications via their transport power management (TPM) system.

Three transmission options start with the entry level 16/16 CommandQuad Manual featuring four ranges and four powershiftable gears within each range. Also available are a 16/16 CommandQuad and a 32/16 Command8 transmission, which has eight powershiftable gears and an ECO mode that enables a top speed of 40kph at only 1759 engine rpm.

All three transmissions offer a fully automatic clutch, individual start-up gears, individually settable speeds and an electric park lock. Automatic shifting is standard on the premium Command8 and optional on the 16/16 CommandQuad.

Front axle suspension and an optional maintenance-free mechanical cab suspension system are available, while the air suspended Grammer seat from the 6R Series features up to 15 degrees of swivel, lumbar adjustment and an optional heating system.

The 5R Series combines a one-piece curved frame design with a low centre of gravity and has a turning radius of just 3.75m for excellent manoeuvrability, even when fitted with a front loader. For loader operation there is a choice of mechanical or new E joysticks, both linked to the tractor seat, and rear lift capacity is 4.7 or optionally 5.3 tonnes.

In addition, and designed for use in narrow row crops, other specialist crops and vineyards, 5RN Series tractors feature a minimum width of 1.7m, a narrow cab and mechanical front wheel drive.

Source: John Deere news

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