One of the most significant developments in the JCB Fastrac tractor range since its launch 23 years ago is today previewed at Agritechnica with the unveiling of the new 4000 Series machine.
The radical new-look machine - which will be launched next year - will replace the current 2000 Series with improvements in all aspects of its design, performance and driver comfort and convenience, resulting in higher levels of versatility and productivity.
JCB Agriculture Managing Director, Richard Fox-Marrs said: “The Fastrac 2000 Series has served well as a tractor with a unique combination of features for grassland and arable top work, and for high speed spraying and spreading. For the past two years, our engineers have been working on its replacement – and working hard to deliver all-round improvements.
“I’m pleased to say they have achieved their goal: when it comes to the market in 2014, the new Fastrac 4000 Series will be more powerful but more economical, stronger but more nimble, and more versatile yet easier to operate. It will also give the driver unrivalled visibility in all directions.”
When the original 1000 Series was introduced as the smallest model in the unique JCB Fastrac range, it was conceived as a lighter and more compact multi-purpose tractor with greater versatility and productivity potential than conventional tractors of similar power. Its specification has been honed and updated over the years, culminating in today’s Fastrac 2155 at 123kW (165hp) and Fastrac 2170 with 133kW (178hp) power output.
The Fastrac 4000 stays true to the original concept but steps up the performance potential with new engines giving outputs up to 220hp; a continuously variable transmission (CVT); more powerful hydraulics; and an even tighter turning circle with Quadtronic four-wheel steering that is unmatched by a conventional tractor of this size and power.
Major advances in suspension specification and control to add to the tractor’s already impressive high speed field and road performance will also be evident when the tractor is launched.
Richard Fox-Marrs added: “The icing on the cake is an operator’s cab that few tractors of this size can match for roominess and, especially, for all-round visibility. Full-length glazed doors and front pillars set wide apart, and looking out over a tapered engine hood, give much improved visibility forwards and to both sides.
“Our designers have also paid particular attention to rearward and rear three-quarter visibility. In addition to regular field machinery for grassland and arable work, the new Fastrac 4000 will be a great tractor for operating a hedge cutter and other offset implements, including highways maintenance equipment, thanks to its unique combination of power, stability, speed and control.”
Compared with conventional tractors, the new Fastrac 4000 will be capable of working at faster speeds in the field thanks to its smooth-riding axle suspension front and rear. Users will also be able to exploit the front linkage and generous mounting area behind the cab to gain capacity and increased productivity for spraying and fertiliser spreading.
Anti-lock brake control (ABS) that is effective both on and off road complements the high level of safety inherent with true four-wheel disc braking.
To emphasise the new tractor’s potential for highways and other non-agricultural maintenance operations, the new design is exhibited at Agritechnica in both ‘agricultural’ and ‘municipal’ colours and specification.
Full specification details will be announced once finalised ahead of the tractor’s commercial launch in 2014.