Valtra will introduce a brand new line-up of large S Series tractors during 2009 to offer contractors and professional farmers more power and comfort than any other tractor range. There will be five new tractor models ranging from 270-370hp.
This isn’t the first time Valtra has produced an S Series; it was originally launched in 1999, but proved a short lived offering. Although it represented a giant leap forward in tractor technology, Valtra now admits that at the time it didn’t have the experience in building large tractors to make the model a success.
Now part of Agco, however, the brand has been able to draw on the experience of its stablemates Massey Ferguson and Fendt to produce a range-topping tractor. The resulting S Series will be built at MF’s plant at Beauvais, France, and will use Fendt’s CVT transmission but, the company’s Finnish management is quick to point out, is a true Valtra with the brand’s unique take on styling, controls and equipment levels.
At the heart of the new S Series is the Agco Sisu Power 8.4CTA-4V engine, which introduces advanced Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) engine technology to the agricultural machinery sector. SCR is the system originally developed for trucks where nitrogen-oxide emissions are reduced by spraying the urea-based AdBlue additive into the exhaust gas stream.
By introducing this technology to its tractors, Valtra reinforces its position as a leader in environmental protection. The new S Series already complies with the Tier/Stage 3B emissions norms for 2011.
AdBlue consumption is approximately 3% of fuel consumption, so the 51-litre AdBlue tank has to be filled at every second fill of the main diesel fuel tank. SCR technology offers many benefits to tractor users. It reduces fuel consumption by approximately 5%, allows power to be increased without a corresponding increase in the heat load, prolongs the life of lubrication oil and improves reliability.
SCR technology is standard on the range-topping S352 model and optional on all other S Series models, apart from the S232 which doesn’t need it.
The S Series’ pulling power, hydraulics and linkages make it easy to control even the biggest and most complex implements. The rear linkage has a lifting capacity of 12t at the link ends, while the front linkage has a lifting capacity of 5t and is also available with front axle suspension. The hydraulics offer an output of 175 lit/min, six hydraulic blocks and a direct power beyond coupling. The tractor weighs 10,300kg, which can be increased to 14,320 kilos using additional weights or 17,640kg with double wheels.
Driving conditions in the totally new, spacious cab are superb. Visibility is excellent in all directions. The optional TwinTrac reverse-drive controls can be adjusted laterally, making working in reverse even more efficient. Cab suspension on all four corners softens bumps together with the front axle suspension, and Valtra’s award-winning semi-active AutoComfort cab suspension can also be specified.
The controls are extremely straightforward and easy to use in true Valtra fashion. For example, the shuttle and handbrake are familiar from other Valtra models. Adjustable QuickSteer power steering makes driving easy. Xenon working lights to the front, rear and sides also facilitate working in low light.
A refrigerated compartment keeps snacks cold, and passengers sit comfortably and safely in a complete seat with a seatback. Naturally, a wide range of options are available on the new S Series, including Isobus implement control, Auto-Guide steering assist and even an air-conditioned driver’s seat. Like every Valtra model, buyers get exactly the tractor they want.
Valtra S Series model line-up: | ||
Max power (hp)
|
Max torque (Nm)
|
|
S232 |
270
|
1,185
|
S262 |
295
|
1,295
|
S292 |
320
|
1,400
|
S322 |
350
|
1,492
|
S352 |
370
|
1,540
|
For more information visit: www.valtra.com.