Taking place in the north of Germany, the New Holland Tractor of the Year event saw its TotY MidPower candidate, the Standard Wheelbase (SWB) T7.225 put through its paces.
Each model in the new T7 range is built around the same chassis, offering a 2,789mm wheelbase – identical to the outgoing generation – and comes with a new colour scheme, dubbed Dynamic Blue. It completes a refresh of the T7 portfolio that started with the HD variant and has moved down the Long Wheelbase range.
Under the bonnet, an FPT NEF engine produces 180hp, 190hp, 210hp or 225hp depending on the model, reaching maximum power at just 1,500rpm. On the first three models, power is put to the ground either through the new Dynamic Command semi-powershift, using New Holland’s double-clutch technology, the existing Range Command or a newly developed Auto Command continuously variable gearbox.
The flagship model is available with either the Auto Command or the Dynamic Command, the former providing a maximum possible speed of 55kph, while the semi-powershift box offers 24×24 gears and a top speed of 50kph.
Independent testing from the DLG has shown impressive fuel economy results for the new T7 range, with the AutoCommand model using just 257g/kWh during evaluations, while the DynamicCommand produced a more impressive result of 243g/kWh.
At the front of the machine, the front axle has been completely redesigned, not only reducing the turning circle to 11.4m, down 17%, but also offering a full suspension package with the additional option of roll control to improve handling during transport. As standard, the front axle has a 6t capacity, increasing to 9t if the heavy-duty variant is specified.
This increase in capacity is complemented by uprated components throughout the machine, leading to a maximum gross vehicle weight of 13.5t, and a maximum payload of 5.5t.
In the cab, there’s a new interface on the SideWinder armrest providing greater levels of customisation to suit the operator. Fitted to the armrest is also the CommandGrip multifunction joystick and 12in IntelliView touchscreen. A choice of mechanical, hydraulic or pneumatic cab suspension is also available.
On the rear fender, new engine speed controls have been added to enable the pto to be brought up to speed while outside the cab, as required. For safety, there is also an engine cut-off control on the same panel.
Put to work
Jumping into the T7.225 there is a familial feel to the layout, meaning that those who have driven the previous generation, or any of the revamped New Holland machines, will quickly get to grips with the machine.
We first put the AutoCommand box through its paces on the road. The tight turning circle made manoeuvring easy, and acceleration was rapid, allowing us to pull out of junctions and keep ahead of traffic. Visibility was good, with the wide side mirrors enabling us to see right to the back of the trailer, with only minimal blind spots. It’s also comfortable, with the cab suspension dampening any undulations or bumps in the road.
There was a comment made on the day, saying that from the inside, the T7 felt like a much bigger tractor than it was. This is true, as the cab is spacious and you’re positioned high above the bonnet. On the road, though, this does make it initially difficult to gauge how much space you need. In reality, we had no trouble keeping to our side of the narrow road, but users may find themselves over-compensating for the imagined size of the tractor.
In the field, we pulled a 6m Amazone disc harrow up a steady incline with no problems. The gearbox and engine were effective at automatically maintaining the desired speed, and that tight turning circle meant that you could easily pull into the next pass without stopping and reversing. Adjustments to the cruise control can be made easily through the multi-function joystick, and it’s quick and easy to set up headland management systems.
While not the most important part of a tractor, it seems right to highlight to improvements to the design. The new, darker Dynamic Blue is more aesthetically pleasing than the old matte blue, and the Blue Power specification still adds a slightly darker tinge and metallic paint.
The new nose design and silver decals also make the new generation T7 SWB look more modern, bringing it in line with competitive brands in the looks department.
