AN all-new series of small farm tractors from Valtra is scheduled for production later this year as AGCO’s Finnish brand completes the rejuvenation of its 50-400hp range.

The 04 generation Valtra A Series is based on AGCO’s new global platform and will replace the current twomodel line-up with six models from 75hp to 130hp – a big jump in horsepower. Similarly, hydraulic flow up to 98-litres/min and a 5.2 tonne rear hitch also represent a substantial increase in performance for these entry-level models that will significantly overlap the bottom half of the Valtra N Series.

However, the A-team are smaller, lighter machines powered by three-cylinder 3.3-litre Valtra engines, with 75hp, 95hp and 95hp outputs, and four-cylinder 4.4-litre motors with 100hp, 110hp, 120hp and 130hp.

A 12x12 synchro shuttle transmission will be the base spec as before, with the option of the power shuttle HiTech models offering fingertip selection of forward and reverse.

Features such as AutoTraction, which has automatic clutch control so that the tractor can be driven on the accelerator and brake pedals only, and HiShift gearlever mounted clutch button, also come with the higherspec’ transmission.

A super creep ‘box in each case will provide ultra-slow working speeds for specialist planting and sowing operations. While the least-powerful model gets away with just exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) to meet emissions rules, the others use urea injection (AdBlue) to clean up pollutants and comply with stricter requirements that apply above 75hp.

Valtra said the emissions package is sufficiently compact not to interfere with visibility from the new cab, which is more spacious than on many tractors in the same class. Valtra’s signature 180-degree seat rotation (primarily for operating a logging crane) is available and electronic rear hitch control is standard this time, along with four-wheel drive and diff lock operation.

Mechanical spool valves and side console-mounted controls keep things at a sensible level for this size and class of tractor, but there is provision for an electronic loader joystick and associated controls to be attached to the right-hand seat armrest.

A slim header rail and large roof window is intended to provide much improved upwards visibility given that Valtra engineers expect a large proportion of the new A Series tractors to be equipped with one of the new generation factory-fitted loaders being introduced at the same time.