Case IH's new take on a mid-range series, the Vestrum CVXDrive tractors, look like being ideal loader-work machines, but with added capabilities.

That concept has not been lost on the judges of the 'Machine of the Year 2019' award in the mid-size tractor category at this year's SIMA 2019, in Paris.

Its four models range from 100-140 hp (max) and combine compact dimensions, manoeuvrability and ease of use of a four-cylinder design with the advanced technology, premium spec' and comfort more usually found in the company’s larger models.

Included in that is the first Case IH tractor in the 100 hp class to incorporate the company’s popular continuously-variable CVXDrive transmission and Automatic Productivity Management (APM), which are said to contribute to greater operational efficiency and fuel economy.

Citing a fairly full order book already, David Schimpelsberger, of Case IH, said: “The combination of premium features and the CVXDrive transmission makes them a great choice for mixed and dairy farms, contractors and road maintenance operators that need a tractor which will be equally at home in the field, on the road or when being used for loader work in confined areas."

‘Vestrum’ means ‘yours’ in Latin and this reflecting the fact that further optional features will be available in the new range.

These models fit into the Case IH range between the Luxxum models from 100-120 hp and 115-145 hp Maxxum tractors, and the designation of the Vestrum 100 CVXDrive, Vestrum 110 CVXDrive, Vestrum 120 CVXDrive and Vestrum 130 CVXDrive translate into rated horsepower at 2200 rpm, while maximum power outputs of 110,120, 130 and 140hp are developed from 1700 to 1900 rpm.

They are powered by a 4.5-litre, four-cylinder FPT engine, with a common rail injection system, plus an advanced wastegate turbocharger and intercooler to develop a strong torque increase at low engine speeds. Maximum torque outputs of 520 Nm, 551 Nm, 610 Nm and 630 Nm for the four models are developed at just 1300 rpm.

They meet the latest EU Stage V emissions standards by using FPT’s multi-patented and maintenance-free HI-eSCR2 selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, the under-hood after-treatment system, which also incorporates the diesel oxidation catalyst and diesel exhaust fluid (AdBlue) injector.

Case IH has almost two decades of experience in continuously-variable transmission technology and the CVXDrive provides stepless travel up to 40 km/h which, using the ‘Eco’ setting, can be reached at an engine speed of just 1700 rpm to minimise fuel consumption. The transmission incorporates double-clutch technology to deliver seamless, fully automatic changes between two mechanical ranges to make full tractive power available across the entire speed range.

Active Hold Control holds the tractor stationary, loaded or unloaded and without applying the brakes, while an automatic parking brake is fitted as standard.

Power from the CVXDrive transmission is transmitted to the ground through a wide range of tyre options, with the largest size being 600/65 R38.

Hydraulic systems and implement connections mean these tractors can also be supplied from the factory ready for fitment of a Case IH LRZ 120 front loader, which is controlled electro-hydraulically via a joystick in the cab.

Featuring Electronic Hitch Control (EHC), the Cat II or III N rear linkage can lift up to 5600 kg, while the variable displacement, pressure flow compensating (PFC) pump delivers up to 110 litres/min. Headland Management Control II, which operates on ISOBUS III for maximum efficiency, automates repetitive operations, reducing driver fatigue and increasing productivity.

Active Ride Control is included in the standard specification, together with external controls for the rear hitch, hydraulics and PTO. Up to seven mechanically – and electronically –controlled hydraulic remote valves are available, together with a ‘Power Beyond’ port delivering up to 110 litres/min.

Suspended and braked front axle options are available, while a front linkage is fully integrated into the front axle mounts and has a maximum lift capacity of 2300 kg. Front linkage management is available on all Vestrums.

A four-pillar cab has suspension as an option and the control layout is similar to that used on larger Case IH tractor models, including the well-established, intuitive Multicontroller armrest as standard to ensure easy and intuitive operation of all functions.

The wide range of options includes air conditioning, electrically adjustable and heated rear mirrors, together with a range of air suspension comfort seats.