LAUNCHING the world first articulated tractor with continuously variable transmission (CVT) was always going to be a party.
Holding the launch during the Case IH 175 year birthday celebrations at AgQuip ensured it.
“This is first class, AgQuip really takes it to the next level, we’re excited to be here“ said Dan Klein global product manager for Case IH Steiger tractors.
Taking on competitors such as the Class Xerion, the move towards CVT seems a natural fit for Case IH.
Alyx Selsmeyer the high horsepower tractor product manager for Case IH said the move to CVT was a positive one, with many benefits for growers in Australia.
“The CVT offers so many benefits for the Australian tractor operator.”
“As well as noticing cost savings where fuel consumption is concerned, the CVT makes the tractor more user-friendly for operators of all skill levels” she said.
Ms Selsmeyer said Case IH had been developing its CVT technology for almost 20 years and was proud to now be able to offer it at the top end of its tractor market.
The Steiger CVT technology will be available on the 450 and 500 horsepower Quadtracks and the 400, 450 and 500 Rowtracks.
The Steiger wheeled 400, 450 and 500; and the wheeled 450 and 500 scraper will also move over to CVT.
Ms Selsmeyer said that the CVT transmission would provide faster acceleration to a paddock or when moving the machine on the road.
She also said having full power availability at low ground speeds for special applications and implements would be a useful feature.
The CVT would also enable full hydraulic flow availability at low ground speeds for the likes of drilling and planting, she said.
Ms Selsmeyer said the overall result of this will be increased productivity with faster cycle times and maximum fuel efficiency.
“It all adds up to a tractor designed to ensure the most efficient operation at all times, in all conditions, regardless of the task or terrain” she said.