Test Drive Valtra A124 HiTech

The new A124 HiTech tractor launched by Valtra is full of innovations and equipped with a lot of technology, combined with total integration between engine and transmission that guarantee to the model a difference between tractors in the same power range

After the advent of Resolution N^o 433/2011, which provided for the inclusion of agricultural machinery in the Air Pollution Control Program – Proconve MAR-I -, we are having the possibility of starting a series of tests with machines produced this year and that meet the requirements established as limits , from the first day of this year.

We consider that Brazil is now part of that select group of countries that seek emissions controls in engines used in agriculture. In this edition we present the Valtra tractor from the A series, 4^a generation. The model we tested in Jaboticabal for this edition is the Valtra A124 HiTech. In the designation of this model, the A corresponds to the series; 12, to the engine power class, and 4, to the generation, as we mentioned, the fourth.

The main new features found in this model are the engine-transmission integration, the new and spacious cabin, in addition to the usage features that we will detail during this article.

In general, when we previously had the opportunity to test Valtra brand tractors, we highlighted some characteristics, such as the feeling of resistance of the equipment and the reliability we felt in the brand's models, generally based on customer testimonials. However, this new model surprised us with its technological advancement and we hope that our readers understand the reasons for this positive surprise. Of course, much of our impression lies in the fact that we tested the top technology version, which is the maximum specification, the HiTech.

The A series will have three models, A114, A124 and A134 in two versions: normal and HiTech. The A124A tractor that we tested will replace the current BM 125, which will be discontinued with the launch of this new model. The national pre-launch of these models took place a few months ago at the Portas Abertas event, in the city of Ribeirão Preto, where dealers and some customers were able to learn about the characteristics of the new models and versions. The official launch to the public takes place at Agrishow 2017, also in Ribeirão Preto.

Although they meet export and quality requirements, as is not common among national tractors, all of these models will be manufactured in Brazil and can be delivered to customers shortly after the fair where they will be launched.

Valtra's portfolio is significantly modernized with the launches that will take place at this Agrishow. In the A4 series, in addition to the HiTech version of which we tested the A124 model, there will be another standard version, less specified in the same power range, with a 12x12 transmission, reverser and with a platform driver's seat, without a cabin. There will also be a model with a 12x12 cab mechanical transmission and the HiTech version that we had the opportunity to test. The A series will have models from 50hp to 95hp, the BM series will have the BM 100R model and the BH series of generation 4 will have models between 144hp and 220hp. In addition to these, the T series will also be launched, which will have models with 195hp, 210hp, 230hp and 250hp, all with CVT transmission. Valtra's model offering is completed with imported S Series tractors and Challenger model rubber tracked tractors.

MOTOR

The A124 HiTech engine is from AGCO Power, with Bosch electronic injection and has iEGR emissions control, which meets MAR-I regulations. There are four cylinders, with a displacement volume of 4,4 liters, with intercooler, Common Rail, maximum power of 92kW (125hp) and maximum torque of 528Nm. The manufacturer informs that up to 250 hp will use the iEGR system, without the need to use Arla, which will only be necessary in models with higher power and which will use another emissions control system. Since 2006, AGCO throughout the world has been researching alternatives to solve these problems involving contaminants in the atmosphere and has mastered different control systems across its brands.

When opening the front hood, which tilts, it is possible to see the engine's electronic module positioned in front and above the radiators, with a waterproof seal and supported on cushions, to minimize vibrations. Heat cooling is very important in more modern models and this one is no exception, with the presence of five radiators: one to reduce the temperature of the diesel oil return, another for the air conditioning, a third for the system oil hydraulic, another for the intercooler and, finally, the traditional water radiator for the engine coolant. They are all protected by a small screen that prevents dirt from entering directly into the radiator cores and which can be moved for cleaning.

Strategically the fuel filters are placed on the left side, which is the coldest side of the engine. This model has a water expansion tank, preventing the system from spilling used water outside.

The exhaust pipe, as is standard on larger tractors, is positioned behind the column on the right side of the cabin, a construction that favors forward visibility.

STREAMING

One of the new features that caught our attention the most was the Gima brand automatic power transmission, which will equip all models in the HiTech version. There are 16 speeds that can be used in different ways, with electro-hydraulic reverser Power Shuttle.

Read the full test below.