HANOVER, Germany — Massey Ferguson has launched its long-awaited 9S tractor, bringing the latest design to a high-horsepower offering from the company.
The 9S tractors replace the 8700 S line for the company and bring increased power and strength to the tractor lineup. It was launched at the Agritechnica machinery show in Hannover, Germany, in mid-November.
There will be six tractors in the 9S lineup ranging from 285 to 425 horsepower, says Matthieu Huitorel, a sales support specialist with Massey Ferguson.
Power will be provided by the 8.34 litre, six-cylinder Agcopower engine, but it has been simplified — the EGR valves have been removed and there is only one turbo. The only transmission available will be the Dyna-VT transmission, a continuously variable transmission that includes an automatic mode.
The Massey Ferguson 9S follows the styling cues and priorities of the 8S tractor before it, including the distinctive Protect-U design that keeps 18 centimetres between the cab and the engine enclosure and improves visibility and operator comfort.
Cab visibility is also improved by moving the exhaust treatment system under the cab floor and placing the exhaust pipe flush against one of the posts of the cab.
“We want it to be the best front visibility in the market,” says Huitorel.
The technology in the cab from the 8700 series was maintained, but other technology options have been added, including MF autoturn, which automates headland turning. GPS guidance from Trimble is standard. Trimble recently entered a joint venture with Agco.
“We are close to being a totally autonomous tractor, meaning the farmer just has to focus on implement setting and let the tractor look after the other tasks for the day.”
Two load-sensing hydraulic pumps help provide flow up to 340 litres per minute, and it has an ecomode that pumps the oil at lower engine revolutions per minute. There are six hydraulic outlets, including one larger outlet, to serve the needs of higher flow implements such as planters and seeders.
The chassis is mostly the same as the 8700 series, other than reinforcing the rear axle to help manage the higher horsepower. The 8700 S series hit a maximum of 400 h.p.
The 9S tractor can manage a wide range of weights.
“We can go from 11 tonnes up to 18 tonnes weight so farmers can adjust to their needs,” says Huitorel.
There is also a new light package on the tractor with 27 lights, providing 360-degree lighting around the machine.
Numerous options will be available on the tractor, including a central tire inflation system and an air system that will allow for high-pressure air for tractor cleaning and other uses at the front and rear of the tractor.
The 9S will be Massey’s global high-horsepower tractor. It will be launched first in Europe by next September and then will flow out to the rest of the world.
