Like most other tractor manufacturers, New Holland is pushing four-cylinder power up to 175hp with engine power management.
It has offered six-cylinder tractors in the 120hp to 150hp range for a lot longer than its competitors. The driving force for this change is the stringent emission regulations that add to the cost of engine development. New Holland says the T6 is its most popular range, with 25,000 units sold across Europe. The new T6 cab is clearly distinguishable, with an updated roof. The tractor has also retained the wheelbase at 2.645m, even though it’s a four-cylinder motor. New Holland says this will improve traction and give more comfort for the operator. All in all, there is no way of knowing that the tractor is a four-cylinder until you start the engine or pop the hood. Cleverly, New Holland has fitted the engine 25cm forward on the chassis for a better-balanced tractor to the front. The tractor weighs just 25kg less than the six-cylinder model.
The new T6 complies with Tier 4B emissions standards, with New Holland’s ECOBlue high-efficiency selective catalytic reduction (Hi-eSCR) technology.
New Holland explains that with this after-treatment, the engine breathes clean air, optimising combustion, torque rise and fuel efficiency. The turbo incorporates some clever features including an exhaust flap which closes to get the engine up to running temperature quicker.
As an option, this can be used as an exhaust brake, operated by a second accelerator pedal.
The new T6 engines have to deliver more power from smaller engines. According to New Holland, they have achieved better performance by maximising power output from each cylinder. The new engine control unit brings the engine to maximum torque faster and holds true to the lower rpm longer, outperforming the previous generation’s engine.
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