Argo Tractors previews first CVT model at Agritechnica

A crowd gathers at Agritechnica to get a first look at the new McCormick X6 Series and X7 Series tractors.
A crowd gathers at Agritechnica to get a first look at the new McCormick X6 Series and X7 Series tractors.

The McCormick tractor line-up is set to be transformed in 2014 with the introduction of new ranges across the power spectrum that bring new designs and features appealing to farmers wanting a simple but well-equipped livestock tractor to those needing a highly productive arable machine.

They result from the biggest product design and development programme ever undertaken by Argo Tractors, and represent a big investment in design, R&D and production facilities at its factories in Italy to meet the changing demands of farmers and growers.

At Agritechnica, Argo’s McCormick exhibit included the X7 Series VT Drive, which will be the first McCormick tractor with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The VT Drive system, giving seamless speed control and different control modes to suit specific applications, is planned for five McCormick X7 Series tractors from 143hp to 175hp for draft work, and up to 188hp with pto/transport boost.

The McCormick X7.460 VT Drive will be the marque’s first stepless transmission tractor when it enters production.
The McCormick X7.460 VT Drive will be the marque’s first stepless transmission tractor when it enters production.

They will complement the new X7 Series Pro Drive models, which have a 24x24 or 40x40 creep semi-powershift transmission and power outputs up to a boosted 212hp. Both ranges will have four- and six-cylinder engines – including the most powerful four-cylinder unit from any manufacturer.

Features common to the Pro Drive and VT Drive versions include the all-new Premiere cab with easy-to-use electronic controls, independent front axle suspension and flow-on-demand hydraulics.