Tractors with the right power and cost of ownership

There are many things to consider when purchasing a tractor. A tractor with the right power and cost of ownership will ensure you can complete all your tasks cost-effectively. In this blog, we take a look at two tractor model series in the lower HP segment that offer the best performance with a reasonable cost of ownership.  

Tractor engines optimised for the best possible performance at reasonable total costs 

The compact AGCO Power engine family developed for Valtra's A and G Series tractors is optimised to offer the best possible performance at reasonable total costs. These three- and four-cylinder engines have already proven their reliability on all continents of the world. The four-cylinder, 44 MD engine, with its 4.4-litre cylinder volume, enables the power and torque needed by models with more than a hundred horsepower - but also facilitates good visibility thanks to its compact size. The electronically controlled common pressure injection system ensures the best power and torque even in harsh conditions. 

The type designation MBTN engine and the exhaust gas aftertreatment solution (essential these days)  are designed to be very compact, which enables excellent visibility in both Valtra's A and G series. This is a big help in every job as noted in independent press tests.   

Independently tested tractor fuel consumption 

Of course, an important topic for the cost of ownership is fuel consumption. This is independently tested with the DLG powermix test. In this test, the consumption of the G Series was found to be "better than average" at 281 g/kWh and thus clearly below the figures of the two other reference tractors mentioned in this Profi article, Valtra G135:  Muss sich nicht verstecken, which subscribers can read in full here: Valtra G135:  Muss sich nicht verstecken

The A series, on the other hand, was tested by the advisory organisation Landwirtschaftkammer Niedersachsen in Germany, and the result was the second best in this comparison of ten 100 hp tractors, achieving a value of 0,23 l/hph (ca. 261 g/kWh). These consumption readings are measured from the tractor under conditions similar to practice, not the values ​​of a bare engine. The article can be read in full (in German) here.

Valtra's reliable power source already has a long tradition: since its foundation (1942), AGCO Power has designed and manufactured engines in Finland that are known for their performance and reliability even in demanding conditions. In practice, however, the productivity of the tractor's work is determined by the cooperation with the implement. The power must therefore transfer to the machine efficiently. Valtra's multi-stage powershift transmissions offer the right transmissions for every job. In particular, the G Series, with six quick gears that can be engaged while pulling, always offers the right speed for field work with the smallest steps. The robust synchronisation of the mechanical speed ranges (ABCD) also ensures road driving is smooth. The top speed is reached with remarkably low engine revolutions, which in turn keeps fuel consumption low in both the A and G Series. This was also found in the mentioned LKW Niedersachsen comparison test.

Tractor hydraulic output at low revs saves fuel 

Another important factor to consider is hydraulic output, which is needed a lot in today's work machines. Valtra's A and G Series tractors can find it - all of them at least around 100 l/min at nominal engine revolutions. Versu models have electronically controlled hydraulics, which can be fully programmed according to the need for use. The control device for each function can also be selected as needed. In the Active and HiTech models, machine hydraulics are used straightforwardly with traditional levers, but the G Series also offers a so-called ON/OFF valve that offers electronic control from both the cockpit and outside of the fender with a small flow. This is a superb solution for when  using a hydraulic top link, for example! 

While other tractor brands are just starting to use electric spool valves for front loader use, Valtra has developed the functions to be superior in their versatility. In addition to the front loader, the joystick on the armrest of the A and G Series can be used to control the front lift and the hydraulics of the front implement if necessary. The G Series models can have up to four front valves, and in addition, the flow rates can be controlled per valve, so that the operation of the machine or loader is exactly as desired. And with Valtra Unlimited, the use and management of even demanding work equipment can be customised as needed. 

Smart farming technology in a compact, easy-to-access tractor with great visibility 

The upgraded 5th generation Valtra A Series range is now simplified so that the four-cylinder models come with the HiTech 4 transmission, while the models below 100 hp have the three-cylinder engine and offer the traditional gear lever transmission with optional two-step powershift. The Valtra A105 and A115 models' efficiency has recently been enhanced by improving cab features, functionality, and incorporating new electronics, including ISOBUS functionality and the market’s easiest to use tractor autoguidance system, Valtra Guide, which delivers up to centimetre-level accuracy. These features will already be familiar to users of higher-end Valtra models such as the G Series.  

If you’re interested in tractors of around the 100hp range, request a quote and a Valtra representative will be in touch.