Best of Specialized category: orchard, vineyard, hill and mountain tractors
Unique on the market is the Ferrari Dualsteer system, which links the central joint of the frame with the steering of the front axle to provide an overall turning angle of 70 degrees. The company states that this system provides the safety and stability of standard front axle steering machines, with the added manoeuvrability of articulated units.
On the latest Vega 85 Dualsteer, this translates to a turning circle of 2,200mm. The manoeuvrability is combined with compact dimensions with it being possible to reduce the overall width down to just 1,296mm from a maximum of 1,961mm. The wheelbase is 1,495mm and the track width can be brought down to 1,046mm, with ground clearance ranging from 161mm up to 271mm depending on specifications and tyre choice.
Under the hood, a Kohler KDI 2504 TCR power unit produces 75.3hp at 2,300 rpm and 300Nm at 1,500rpm. It meets Stage V regulations through the use of DPF and DOC after-treatment systems and power is put to the ground through a mechanical 16×16 transmission with a top speed of 40kph. As standard, the shuttle is mechanical but customers have the option of an electro-hydraulic unit.
The engine can be specified with a Self-Cleaning System, said to be unique on the market, that keeps the radiator and intake grilles of the tractor free from dust and debris to avoid overheating. It comprises an electromagnetically controlled intake fan behind the radiator and an electric blower fan at the front, while the cooling fan is connected to the engine via an electromagnetic clutch which is operated by a control system.
Using the Power Clutch System button in the cab, operators can use the gear lever and shuttle without the need for the clutch pedal. Further additions include the Smart Brake & Go function, meaning that the brake pedal can be used without the clutch to bring the machine to a stop.
At the rear, the hitch can lift 2,300kg and features two double-acting spools and a free flow return. Standard hydraulic flow is capped at 29.5 litres per minute, with an independent 33.5-litre steering pump. Operators can also specify the tractor with three double-acting spools, with a double-acting return, up to 51 litres per minute hydraulic flow and a front linkage with a capacity of 800kg. The electro-hydraulic clutch comes with 540 and 540ECO speeds as standard, with the option of 540/1000.
Finally, the cabin comes with mechanical silent-block suspension and a gas sprung seat, with the option of full pneumatic suspension. A manually adjusted air conditioning system is included and the noise level is reported to be 81 decibels.