Back in March news broke that Japanese tractor manufacturer Kubota had reached a deal with Buhler industries, the Candian owners of Versatile tractors.

The companies have teamed up to manufacture a range of new models, with Kubota's latest M8 models leading on from the company's French-built M7 series.

The M8-191 and M8-211 have just been unveiled at a press event in North America and appear to be based on the Versatile Nemesis tractors, although sporting the orange Kubota livery.

Both the M8-191 and M8-211 are fitted with Cummins six-cylinder 6.7L engines which produce 190hp and 210hp respectively. Like Versatile's Nemesis series, the new M8s will be fitted with ZF semi-powershift transmissions (30 forward 15 reverse), divided into six powershifts across five ranges. The option for a Kubota variable transmission (KVT) will be available. A four-speed rear PTO and rear lift capacity of 5,560kg comes as standard, with an optional 7,050kg capacity rear lift available.

A maximum of five hydraulic couplings are available, with a max oil flow of 160l/min.

Inside the cab looks similar to the M7 range, with the standard 7" K-Monitor coming as standard, with the option for a 12" K-Monitor Pro. Other additions such as an active leather seat, automatic climate control and LED lighting can be opted for.

There is no confirmation of when the new M8 series will reach the European market.