A new high-horsepower tracked tractor has been unveiled with a focus on increasing power and capacity while managing the effects of higher machine weights on the soil.
The four-model 1100 Vario MT Gen 2 range spans 521-680hp, with the flagship 1167 MT claimed to be the world’s most powerful tractor equipped with a stepless transmission.
Unveiled at the Farm Progress Show in Iowa on 2 September, the new machines are built at the manufacturer’s Jackson factory in Minnesota and feature a revised Mobile Track System (MTS) designed to distribute machine weight over a large contact area.
The tractor uses two tracks, each around 3m long, rather than the triangular track arrangement commonly used on high-horsepower tracked machines. The six-axle track system spreads the tractor’s weight along a longer footprint, while the tracks are designed to provide a smoother ride and reduce the concentration of load on the soil.
Track widths range from 18-36in, although the UK specification will be limited to 27.5in to maintain an overall tractor width of around 3m.
Managing increased machine weight
The revised track arrangement also allows the tractor’s maximum permissible weight to increase by around 7t to almost 27t. Rear linkage capacity rises to 9t.
That increase makes the relationship between machine weight, track width, soil conditions and operating practices particularly important.
The manufacturer says the longer track system helps spread the tractor’s weight, reducing ground pressure and the potential for soil compaction. However, actual soil loading will continue to depend on factors including ballast, axle loading, track width, inflation and soil moisture.
The MTS is also intended to improve ride quality compared with more conventional tracked configurations, potentially reducing pitching and movement of the tractor and implement combination during field operations.
More power and capacity
The 1100 Vario MT range uses MAN D38 and D42 engines with revised engine control units and a new Tractor Management System.
A hydraulic fan operates independently of the engine, while a dual hydraulic pump provides increased oil capacity and pressure. Up to eight hydraulic spools can be specified.
The fuel tank capacity has increased by 16 litres to 1,370 litres, with an independent DLG test expected to provide further information on fuel efficiency.
The tractor is also designed with servicing and cleaning in mind, including dust extraction and passive filter cleaning, easier access to oil checks and an optional compressed-air connection.
UK availability
The new range is available to order through UK dealers, with the first machines expected to arrive during early 2027.
With power approaching 700hp and a maximum weight of almost 27t, the key question for UK operators will be how the additional capacity can be matched with suitable track widths, ballast and field conditions to deliver high output without unnecessarily increasing soil loading.
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