At EIMA 2024, Antonio Carraro demonstrated its focus on finding solutions to retain the compact dimensions typical of AC tractors while increasing the power of the engine.
The F28 Series
The F28 series is the latest generation of engines that is renowned worldwide not only for its power and reliability, but also for its environmental friendliness. These are state-of-the-art engines, equipped with anti-pollution technologies, whose effectiveness meets the most stringent exhaust emissions standards.
The new engines will be assembled from 2025 on all models in the Cento series and the R series. The 11200 propulsion unit engine is an outstanding achievement for the company, which, for the first time in its history, is able to provide vehicles with over 100 hp, nimble, compact and fully compliant with Stage V regulations.
SRe
SRe is a fully electric machine with the most exclusive features of AC tractors – compact, isodiametric, reversible and articulated.
This novel concept tractor takes its cue from the real needs of modern end-users, who are environmentally conscious but unwilling to sacrifice performance and operational comfort.
Keeping the ACTIOTM articulated chassis, a feature common to all AC vehicles, and the Category 4 pressurised cab with air conditioning, the SRe is a fully redesigned tractor, beginning with the transmission.
Two electric motors propel the vehicle – the first (50 kW – 68 hp) directly drives the four-speed mechanical transmission, providing optimum speed control and ensuring peak torque at all times, while the second (35 kW – 48 hp) manages the power take-off and all the machine’s small utilities.
The motors are powered by a 38 kWh battery pack with a voltage of 400 V, which can be recharged from the mains or from a charging station with a category 2 connection.
The striking, innovative feature of this tractor is that it is, to all intents and purposes, a continuously variable machine, where the speed and PTO are fully controlled by a highly efficient electric propulsion unit, which delivers the same performance as a 100 hp tractor but with zero environmental impact.
SRe is equally suited for use with conventional as well as newly developed electrified equipment. It is fitted with a rear power lift with three-point Category 1 and 2 hitch, 540/540E PTO, proportional joystick for hydraulic equipment and power socket for electric equipment with a power output up to 10 kW at a voltage of 48 V.
The Infinity Series
The very latest AC designs for precision processing with technical solutions continue to gain popularity with the Infinity Series models, compact tractors with hydrostatic transmission and reversible drive. At Eima 2024, the spotlight will be on the TR 5800 Infinity model.
The Infinity transmission is the common thread running through the range – it enables work to be carried out in both directions at the same speeds – from 0-15 with the mechanical working range and from 0-40 km/h with the mechanical road range.
Each mechanical range is equipped with 3 hydraulic ranges, which can be engaged manually or in automatic transmission mode, with no loss of traction. The travel pedal also assists in braking on slopes, stopping the vehicle when it is released, even when the brakes are not applied. Cruise Control (or Tempomat), Limit RPM, Intellifix, Drive Mode, Fast Reverse and Uniflex suspension allow the operator to always find the right set-up for the job.
On the Infinity models, the clutch is only used for initiating motion and acts as a safety device in the event that the vehicle needs to be stopped instantly.
The electro-hydraulic reverser on the steering wheel is exceptionally practical for forward/reverse manoeuvring, even those of a repetitive nature, without using the clutch.
The brakes are virtually redundant since the accelerator pedal not only controls forward travel but also decelerates the tractor to a standstill – the entire transmission is controlled using the accelerator pedal alone.
The Tony Series
In the spotlight at EIMA 2024 was the Tony V models in the 8700 and 11700 versions with conventional, mono-directional chassis, the Tony 8900 SR, isodiametric, articulated and reversible, the Tony 8900 TTR, isodiametric, reversible, with steered wheels and wide track, the Mach 4 Tony quad-track and, of course, the Tony 8900 TRG, Finalist Tractor of the Year. The entire Tony range features a software-controlled mechanical-hydrostatic hybrid transmission.
Tony mechanical-hydrostatic hybrid transmission sets the standard in cutting-edge AC production. Managed by software and equipped with SIM – Shift In Motion technology, it provides 4 electronically controlled speed ranges, switchable from standstill or on the move.
It is a compact transmission with automatic features controlled by the ITAC (Intelligent Tractor AC) operating system, such as Tractor Management Control (TMC) which simplifies driver operations.
Centralised control designed to ensure the tractor constantly works in optimal conditions in terms of savings and productivity. The system provides several functions, including maintaining parameters while working even during changes in slope, uphill or downhill.
Finalist in the prestigious Tractor of the Year 2025 competition, the new hydrostatic model in the Tony series features different wheel sizes, a rigid chassis and reversible steering. Tony 8900 TRG, equipped with a 72.4 hp, Stage V engine, combines, like no other AC model, strength, stability, compactness and accuracy in operation.
On-board comfort is further enhanced by the optionally available AIR cab, featuring a spacious, comfortable driver’s seat for a large, liveable operating space.
Photo: Antonio Carraro S.p.A.