Cab enhancements at the heart of Case IH upgrades
The flagship Puma AFS Connect 260 CVXDrive was previewed at the 2022 SIMA and EIMA shows. One of the most visible changes on the new Puma AFS Connect tractors is a new cab design, which provides 8 per cent more volume, giving the operator more head and leg room and additional storage, according to Case IH.
One of the most significant upgrades is reduced internal noise levels of 66 decibels, believed to be among the lowest in the sector, matched by an interior which features premium automotive-style trim. There is 11 per cent more glass area for enhanced vision and safety, and a windscreen wiper providing up to 240° of coverage.
FEATURES
A new Multicontroller armrest on both Multicontroller (with 19-speed PowerDrive full powershift) and CVXDrive (with CVX continuously-variable transmission) models now incorporates more features, many of which are customisable. It incorporates a turn-and-press encoder dial that can be used if preferred as an alternative to swiping the new 12-inch AFS Pro 1200 touchscreen for display navigation and feature selection. Through the terminal, the CVX transmission and front axle suspension responses can be configured, and LED-lit remote valve paddles assigned according to preference. Operation of the AFS 1200 is supplemented by hot key quick-access buttons. A semi-active hydraulic cab suspension, adjustable to individual preferences or changing terrain, further boosts ride quality and comfort, while optional Case IH advanced vehicle suspension (AVS) enhances this further by integrating the semi-active cab suspension, rear hitch and front axle suspension, co-ordinating them via software that reacts instantly to changing surfaces.
Via the AFS Pro 1200 touchscreen terminal, operators can set up and control AccuGuide guidance, make tractor and Isobus implement settings, and set up AFS Connect telematics to record and transfer operating data to the MyCaseIH online portal and allow remote machine monitoring/support by owners and, with permission, dealers. Five years’ AFS Connect subscription is standard.
Puma AFS Connect models are also available with Tractor Implement Management (TIM), which extends the Isobus links with compatible equipment by allowing the implement to automatically adjust the tractor’s speed and steering according to the workload, such as swath density when working with a baler.
POWER
The new Puma tractors combine a compact 2.88m wheelbase with rated power outputs of 180-220hp (Multicontroller models) and 180-260hp (CVXDrive models). Maximum respective figures with Power Management boost are 224-260hp and 224-302hp. There is up to 11 per cent more power, 15 per cent more fuel tank volume, and 18 per cent more contact area from larger tyre options.
Stage V 6.7L FPT NEF six-cylinder engines in Puma AFS Connect tractors produce a maximum 1,250Nm torque at 1,500rpm on the largest model, with up to 11 per cent more power across the range. Engine service interval has been extended to 750 hours. On CVX models, larger, stronger axles permit a gross vehicle weight of up to 15,000kg and allow fitment of up to 2.05m rear tyres (710/70 R42), increasing footprint by up to 18 per cent for more traction and flotation. On 50km/h models, top speed is attainable at 1,550rpm to minimise fuel consumption from the 15 per cent larger fuel tank, which holds 470L of diesel and 54L of DEF, for up to three hours’ extra work. The new tank moulding incorporates toolbox and stowage space, and adjacent is an integral five-litre hand-washing tank.
A new combination of added-value telemetry services grouped to encompass all aspects of service support is now available for Case IH Puma tractors. Key features of Safeguard Connect, which complements AFS Connect telemetry, include extended Safeguard warranty, pre-season inspection, dealer remote support, Max Service 24/7 back-up, AFS Connect subscription and full operator training.