Tractor, harvester IT comes of age
Over the last halfdecade, digital technology has appeared to be the “must-have” for tractor and machinery companies, who believe that bringing IT to tractors and farming will offer its customers huge benefits.
Customers needing more power than the current range-topping 850 have to move up to the larger 900 series, starting at 320hp but bringing with it a 2500kg weight penalty.
The manufacturer attributes the new model to increased interest in high power-to-weight tractors typically get used on triple mower rigs and large square balers.
Fundamentally this is the same tractor as the current 850 model, but the 870 uses engine power management to deliver the 295hp at speeds above 14km/h or when the PTO system is engaged, unlike the remainder of the range that operates under a maximum power-no boost strategy.
The increased output also dictates that the 870 is only available with the ZF-sourced Terramatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) unlike the rest of the range which can be specified with a conventional power-shift unit.
The factory says the increased power is beyond the capacity of the current Hexashift unit, but notes that CVT is increasingly popular in this sector.
Power is provided by the 6.7L, Stage 4 compliant FPT engine with a Claas designed stressed sump.
Like the others models in the series, a new front axle assembly helps save 380kg over the previous fitment, so allowing an increase in the permissible vehicle payload.
All major functions are controlled via the CEBIS terminal and a mouse type C-Motion control lever with automated headland management features, a range of preferred set-up options and optional factory fitted GPS systems.
Expect to see the new Axion 870 in mid-2016.
