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Valtra works on all tractor models
Finnish tractor builder Valtra announces innovations for almost all tractor series. This is partly due to the fact that the 'Stage V emission requirements' must be met. Heavy tractors have to deal with this. The little A also gets an update.
The European emission standards will apply from 1 January 2019. Several tractor manufacturers have already launched a new model, or will do so this year. The requirements apply to tractors between 130 kW and 560 kW (converted 177 to 763 hp). Self-propelled (harvesting) machines also have to deal with this. 76 hp tractors have 1 year longer. Confusingly, the United States (US) uses different standards than Europe, which the 2 countries followed in the past.
Stage 5
The manufacturers all deal with the rules differently. How many engines do they have in stock and what is the strategy? Do you have to go on for a long time on cheap(er) old models, or do you have to lead the way? Valtra opts for a phased introduction, it reports on 7 January. The T and S series above 130 kW already meet 'Stage 5' this month. The heaviest four-cylinder 'N174' will follow this spring and the 'N154' and 'N134' will follow in the autumn. The N and T series meet the new requirements without exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). The S does use this.
Stage 5 requires a larger SCR catalytic converter. You can also see that it is a new model. Valtra immediately seizes the opportunity to improve details. A new option is a second SmartTouch terminal in the N, T or S cab. This can be used to control Isobus machines, a camera or the GPS. The terminal in the armrest can then be used for the tractor functions.
With 'Valtra Connect telemetics' you can read information from the N and T tractors remotely via your phone or PC: fuel levels, Canbus signals, GPS locations and more. Smaller models can also be implemented with it in the future, and it can be retrofitted.
air suspension
Finally, the four-cylinder will soon have the same air-suspended front axle as the popular T4, which has had it for 20 years. Now that is hydro-pneumatic, which remains available on the small models. The 3 biggest get the new spring package. A mechanical suspension of the cabin is also available on the small A, provided you opt for the luxurious HiTech 4 version. This refers to a new powershift gearbox with 4 groups and 4 steps per group. A crawler box is also available.
The 100 hp and 110 hp A's also use Adblue (SCR) to meet the emission requirements. Finally, a front linkage and front PTO are also available. In the cab Valtra improved detail. If you buy a new tractor, you can opt for a 5-year warranty, up to 6.000 hours.
Niels van der Boom
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