Czech Republic-based Zetor has revealed its new 171hp Crystal HD 170 model at the Země živitelka agricultural show, held at České Budějovice, about 70 miles South of Prague and 100 miles West of the company’s factory at Brno. The new model was exhibited to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the Crystal name in the Zetor range.
Introduced in 1968, the original Zetor featured the first safety cab with suspension in the world, and a four-cylinder (and since 1975 also six-cylinder) engine equipped with a balance rod that made the tractor the first ever where the noise in the cab didn’t exceed 85dB.
With a unique and revolutionary design, the Crystal was recognised globally as a first-class tractor. It was built at Zetor’s Brno plant until 1981, when, for political reasons, production was moved to ZTS Martin, in Slovakia. The tractors from Martin were branded ZTS, and were produced for another 20 years.
Production of the new-generation Zetor Crystal started at Brno in 2015 with a 150hp model, and this autumn it will be joined by the new 171hp flagship.
“I am convinced that the most powerful tractor in our portfolio will find its way to customers, and will continue the successful 50-year-long tradition of the Crystal name,” the managing director of Zetor Tractors, Marián Lipovský, said.
The new Crystal HD 170 is fitted with the well-established, 6.1-litre, six-cylinder Deutz engine with a maximum power output of 171hp. The engine, which meets the Stage IV emission standard, is popular for its durability and low fuel consumption.
Just like the latest Zetor Forterra, the Crystal uses the company’s in-house Eco40 transmission with 30 forward and 30 reverse ratios. It has five-stage reverser transmission with an automatic three-stage PowerShift multiplier and electro-hydraulic PowerShuttle reverser that allows the driver to change the direction of travel without depressing the clutch pedal of shifting gears. The maximum speed of 40km/hr is achieved at an economical 1,750rpm, and there are 13 gears in the important field work speed range of 4.0-12.0km/hr.
The Crystal’s three-point hitch has a maximum lift capacity of 8,500kg, assisted by two auxiliary cylinders. The tractor has four hydraulic outlets with the company’s “Fingertip” control system that allows the operator to regulate the duration and amount of oil supplied. A reverse quick coupler is also fitted for draining of rotary hydraulic motors. The tractor’s hydralics also benefit from the HER Hitchtronic draft control system that automatically regulates the rear three-point hitch to saves about 5.0-7.0 per cent of fuel while ploughing.
The spacious six-pillar cab has suspension and low noise levels. The operator’s role will be much more comfortable thanks to the controls on the Crystal’s multifunctional panel, a comfortable swivel seat with pneumatic suspension, new dashboard, panoramic rear-view mirrors and a roof window that can be used for ventilation of the cabin and offers a better view when working with the front loader. The tractor can also be equipped with eight LED lights that illuminate the working area around the tractor.
The Crystal HD has front axle suspension that consists of two separate, independently suspended semi-axles and is equipped with a 100 per cent controlled differential lock. As an option, the tractor can also be equipped with central axle greasing. A sophisticated braking system, with pneumatic control of the rear brakes and hydraulic control at the front, means the new Crystal brings new levels of safety when pulling up.
This robust new tractor is being offered in two versions, the Zetor Crystal HD 150 and Zetor Crystal HD 170, and both models can be ordered now.
For more information visit: www.zetor.co.uk.
