Connectivity is the key element of a revised range of Optum tractors from Case IH and that's clear to see from the new 'AFS Connect' designation for the range.

New cab, controls and connectivity form the basis of the re-design, which features the CVXDrive set-up across the three-strong line-up in the range.

A strong seller for the brand since its 2015 introduction on the back of its compact yet high-horsepower and high-spec' design – the new AFS Connect range is aimed at making things simpler for both the operator and the owner.

The new cab brings more space, lower noise levels and improved vision, plus there's a new Multicontroller armrest which filters down features from the Magnum range further up the food chain.

This proven system's configurable controls to allow operators to ease their workload, enhance efficiency, raise productivity and ultimately boost the bottom line of the business of running the tractor.

Like the line-up it succeeds, there are three models with rated power outputs of 250hp, 270hp and 300hp, all featuring the Case IH CVXDrive continuously-variable transmission.

However, many of the rest of the tractors’ key design points are new. As well as the Multicontroller armrest, they have a larger AFS Pro 1200 touchscreen monitor with greater functionality and A-pillar tablet instrumentation for engine/transmission information read-outs.

These newcomers are also now equipped as standard with the Case IH AFS Connect telematics package for two-way data transfer between tractor and online management portal for real-time machine monitoring and much more.

In the cab, operators will find a larger interior with a volume increase of 7.5%, better vision courtesy of 11% more glass, and a noise level of just 66 decibels, helped in part by the premium materials in which the cab is now trimmed.

The new ISOBUS-compatible AFS Pro 1200 touchscreen monitor has a high-resolution screen that not only allows the operator to monitor all primary tractor functions, but can also show front and rear camera feeds. But it remains the key control gateway to operating and optimising the engine, the CVXDrive transmission and the tractor’s hydraulics and pto.

The terminal can manage the tractor’s AccuGuide automated steering system and – for the first time in this Case IH tractor class – full AFS Connect telematics, technology which is well established on Case IH Magnum, Steiger and Quadtrac AFS Connect tractors.

Night visibility can be enhanced by LED road and work light packages with up to 14 lights in the roof, four in the front of the cab, two on the rear fenders and six in the bonnet

For winter warmth and summer cooling, operators now benefit from a new pressurised climate control package, with more outlets for enhanced air distribution, aided by auto-zone control.

A high-specification seat incorporating lateral suspension features full cooling and heating capabilities, and has an upper swivelling backrest for easy and comfortable turning in the seat to monitor implements behind and when reversing.

The greater cab volume and interior redesign also means Case IH designers have been able to incorporate more storage. There's now an integral coolbox under the passenger seat, with sufficient space not only for a lunchbox but also for a pair of two-litre bottles. Support for in-cab monitors and power for mobile phones and smart devices is also met by a number of USB sockets.