H is the 1!
OPINION: Good on Miraka for eschewing electric power for its future tankers, opting for the much more practical heavy-vehicle ‘green’ choice, hydrogen, putting NZ’s first H-powered tanker on the road.
The Deutz Fahr 9 series looks the part, but are the mechanicals up to the task, or is this just a supermodel that is all smoke and mirrors?
The good news is that Series nine takes tried and tested technology, already seen in the likes of Series 7, and upgrades the specification to deal with the increased power.
These tractors – with maximum engine outputs of 295, 312 and 336hp in the 9290, 9310 and 9340 models respectively -- use a 6-cylinder, 7.8L Deutz TTCD engine. This is supplied to the Australasian markets in Tier 3 form, which removes the need for SCR and DPF after-treatment systems. Two stage turbocharging and an intercooling package sees the unit deliver 90% torque at only 1000rpm, and maximum output at a constant level between 1200 and 1600rpm.
The continuously variable transmission is a ZF Terramatic unit which offers four automatically selected ranges subject to speed and load, and three driving modes dependant on the task at hand. The standout feature, besides the stepless speed control from 0-50km/h, is the claim of 80% mechanical proportion during field work at 8-15km/h, which rises to 90% in typical transport situations.
At the rear of the tractor the 3pt linkage is quoted as having 12 tonnes lift capacity, and combines with a closed centre, load sensing hydraulic system which can deliver up to 210L/min to up to seven sets of remotes. Up front the linkage system is said to have a capacity of 5 tonnes and has two PTO speeds, while the rear has three options so all situations should be easily catered for.
The MaxVision 2 cabin has a newly incorporated panoramic windscreen for outstanding visibility, and uses the fourth-generation i-Monitor to the driver's right for controlling engine, transmission and hydraulics as well as system cameras and ISOBUS functions. The touch screen system also has a neat feature in its ability to allow the operator to dedicate any of the buttons on the right-hand armrest for favourite functions.
With driver comfort a must for long productive days, an air seat combines with a pneumatically suspended cabin which is also isolated from the engine to restrict noise levels to only 69 decibels.
Up front a DANA front axle improves comfort further by offering 90mm of suspension travel and also features external dry disc brakes for impressive stopping power; it combines with electronically engaged 4WD, and automated diff-lock systems to keep things going in difficult conditions.
Back to the tractor's rear, NZ spec units include an ISOBUS plug for connection to system-ready implements, and a 7-pin plug for implement control; it's GPS-ready, needing only the company's Agrosky receiver fitted to bring the system to life.
It's likely that the 9 series will be used for heavy cultivation and haulage, so the tractors for NZ are supplied with a dual hydraulic and pneumatic trailer braking system, and an 80mm ball coupling and forced steering elements to suit the larger loader wagons and slurry tankers on the market.
At each corner, premium Michelin rubber in 710-75R2 and 650-65R34 formats should give plenty of grip in the paddock and superior ride on the road.
Power Farming marketing director Brett Maber says, "We intend to offer the 9 series via the tailor-made Deutz Custom Build programme, which allows purchasers to configure the tractor to their specific requirements."
