SIMA proved a happy hunting ground for the latest innovative products from JCB – its 8000 Series Fastrac received the 'Machine of the Year' award in the 280-400 hp tractor category, while the Agripro Loadall telescopic handler won the handling section.

JCB's Fastrac 8000 Series was up against some tough competition from more conventional machines, but its 'speed, comfort and innovation' won through, said the judging panel.

This was the European launch of the range, which was launched at the end of last year in the UK, marking a new era for the brand in fast ag tractors.

Its fail-safe fully hydrostatic steering system is a ‘first’ for a high-speed tractor and is a key feature for the two in the range, the 348hp 8330 and the 306hp 8290. Its a tractor that will clearly appeal in Europe as, thanks to new Type Approval compliance, it can be supplied to all EU markets without its 70kph top speed being restricted.

The new-look machines share some styling and features with the successful Fastrac 4000 Series tractors, but both tractors are powered a twin-turbo 8.4-litre six-cylinder engine matched to a multi-mode CVT Fendt transmission which incorporates bespoke JCB control software.

They also have JCB Hill Hold, which automatically keeps the service brakes applied after the operator has brought the tractor to a halt and releases them once the transmission is activated again and driver accelerates to move off.

One of the highlights, though, is the new Command Plus cab first introduced on the Fastrac 8290 and 8330 and the extra space and glazing makes the most of the new part-swivel driver’s seat, for high-vis working.

JCB Agripro Loadalls feature a unique DualTech VT variable transmission offering customers the best of both worlds by combining precision of hydrostatic with the speed and acceleration of powershift in a single transmission.