Zetor plans 200hp tractor in major revamp of range

Zetor Tractors is implementing a comprehensive overhaul of its range with a return to a numerical naming of its tractors and the promise of hitting the big time with a 200hp machine.

However, that is for the future; in the meantime the company is starting with the launch of its new 6 Series which will replace the current Forterra range, and so become its flagship range, for the time being.

The power range of these models will start at 131hp and extend to 171hp, all provided by a four-cylinder Deutz 4.1 engine.

This unit will deliver a maximum power of 171 HP at 1900 rpm and meet the Stage V emission standards through SCR (selective catalytic reduction), DPF (diesel particulate filter), and external exhaust gas recirculation systems.

Zetor has also confirmed that testing is underway on a new Series 5 range which will correspond in performance to the present Proxima model range.

Looking even further ahead, the company will also introduce tractors corresponding to the Major range, as well as the completely new model which, it very strongly hints, to nobody's surprise, will have a six-cylinder engine.

The Zetor Proxima range is set to be replaced by the 5 Series although no date has been given for its introduction
The Zetor Proxima range is set to be replaced by the 5 Series although no date has been given for its introduction

Having a base machine that can provide 200hp from a six-cylinder engine is essential to any company that wants to succeed in today's tractor market.

Dealers report that 170- 80hp is the most commonly sold size of tractor with that figure increasing all the time.

At present Zetor can only just squeeze into this segment so developing a larger platform is a necessity for the company, and there is every likelihood that a sub-200hp six-cylinder tractor will also emerge to fill the gap between the 6 Series and the new 200hp model.

Along with the new tractors there is a new ZF TPT 16 Powershift transmission which will allow for smoother gear changes under load, the company has claimed.

The basic five forward and three reverse gears have been added to, with a six-step multiplier for forward movement and a three-step multiplier for reverse.

With creeper gears included, there will be a total of 54 forward and 27 reverse gears available and a maximum road speed of 40km/h.

The new tractors will come with a transmission giving up to 54 ratios to choose from
The new tractors will come with a transmission giving up to 54 ratios to choose from

Gear changes between the three main ranges are manual via a gear lever, while the six multiplier ratios are controlled electro-hydraulically.

The transmission casing is also more robust which allows an increase of the rear axle load capacity to 8.5t, and the total tractor weight will reach 11.5t.

The transmission also includes 'Smart Braking', which allows the operator to to start and stop the tractor simply by pressing the brake pedal, which is particularly useful for shuttle work.

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The Series 6 features an axial-piston pump delivering a flow rate of 120L/min enabling the rear three-point hitch to handle a load of up to 7,200kg, while the front hitch will lift 3,500kg.

The new 6 Series tractor was fully tested over the 2024 season
The new 6 Series tractor was fully tested over the 2024 season

The tractors come with four mechanically controlled rear hydraulic circuits as standard, with the option of an extra two for the front hitch if required.

The cab suspension is based on hydraulic dampers and coil springs. Additional comfort is provided courtesy of the tractor's suspended front axle.

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