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The new Case IH Luxxum is aimed at small- to medium-sized dairy and mixed farmers who may also have arable crops. It is compact enough for front loader work around the yard but has the grunt when it comes to heavier draft work and tillage operations explained Remo Müller, the EMEA product marketing manager. He went on to explain the larger Maxxum is aimed at the larger user who demands the most out of their machine in all environments.
Engine
The Luxxum is available in three models, the 100, 110 and 120, which deliver 99, 107 and 117 horsepower respectively. Under the revamped bonnet sits a 3.4 litre four-cylinder FPT engine with Hi-eSCR technology that satisfies the latest stage IV emission regulations without the need for an EGR system. Case IH claims this new engine has a lower fuel consumption due to maximum power being available at just 1,900rpm. The company also claims the engine has a lower AdBlue consumption of 8-10%. The fuel and AdBlue tanks have been increased to 150l and 14l respectively.
Transmission
An automated 32x32 transmission with four powershifts and a powershuttle with three aggression levels allows the operator plenty of control and flexibility. The transmission can be put into full auto for the road where the tractor goes through all the powershifts and gears automatically. In the field you can select field auto, in which only the powershifts are automatic. The operator can also set gear shifts to happen at different rpm levels to help increase efficiency.
Hydraulics and PTO
The Luxxum is fitted with an 80l CCLS hydraulic pump as standard with an optional 100 litre version available. The 80l version is only available with manual spool valves while the 100l version comes with electronic spools. There is a four-speed PTO consisting of 540, 540E, 1,000 and 1,000E fitted as standard.
Comfort
Case IH has put a great emphasis on operator comfort and usability. Outside, the tractor is compact yet stable, while front and cab suspension makes the operation smoother and easier on the driver. All access points for servicing are easily accessible.
A one-piece windscreen which is slightly curved and a high-view roof increase visibility to 360°, according to Case. The Luxxum has a new Multicontroller armrest which is colour coded for the different functions – orange is transmission, black is hydraulics etc. The loader joystick can now also be used to control the transmission, clutch and hydraulics.
The tractor is available with the Case IH AFS (advance farming system) and is ISOBUS II compatible. One would be forgiven for thinking the Luxxum is basically a new-look Farmall U Pro, but when you take into consideration the engine technology and improved features, the Luxxum is the new name for a small compact premium tractor from Case IH.
The first Luxxum tractors will be in Ireland in early 2017, with prices yet to be confirmed.
The first Maxxum was launched in 1989 and since then it has undergone various changes such as the MXU in 2004, CVX in 2013 and now the latest version in 2016. Since 2004, more than 28,200 Maxxums have been produced, which is a testament to their popularity.
Engine
The Luxxum’s bigger brother also gets treated to a new engine – a 4.5 litre NEF for the four-cylinder models and a 6.7 litre NEF for the six-cylinders. Both are made by FPT Industrial. These engines comply with the EU’s stage IV emissions rules by using a Hi-eSCR only package. They do not need a special particulate filter or EGR as a result. There are 14 models in the Maxxum range – 12 four-cylinder models, which can be further divided into standard, Multicontroller and CVX for each model, and two six-cylinder options, the 150 and 150 MC (Multicontroller). The fuel tanks have capacities of 195l (standard) and 220l (optional) on the Maxxum, and 220l (standard) and 230l (optional), respectively, on the Maxxum MC and CVX. These larger tanks, combined with the 39.5l AdBlue capacity, enable the tractors work longer and harder in the fields throughout the day.
Transmission
Transmission options include a 16 x 16 (17 x 16) four range semi-powershift or a 32 x 32 transmission with crawler ratio. The CVX is supplied with Case IH’s continuously variable transmission (CVT), automatic productivity management and ECO Drive, which enhances fuel efficiency. The Maxxum now features an engine brake taken from the larger Puma and Magnum ranges, which helps protect the brakes when driving on the road.
Comfort
The rear mudguards now extend over the wheels completely, making it possible to fit 650/65R38 tyres. With a permitted gross weight of 9.5t, the Maxxum can also tow heavy attachments, while the electronic vibration suppression system prohibits any see-saw motion of attachments in the rear hydraulics. The front axle suspension is now fitted with a second pressure accumulator. Case IH claims this makes the tractor more comfortable when driving on roads, and improves traction during fieldwork.
The cab suspension system continues to contribute towards ride comfort, as does the extended 2.642m wheelbase. The familiar tight turning circle of 5.4m is not affected by this as the steering lock of just 43° (with a front tyre dimension of 480/65R28) allows the turning radius of the previous model to remain. The standard seat can be replaced by the Deluxe Comfort and Deluxe Leather versions which, along with the upgraded steering wheel provide great ride comfort. All Maxxums are available pre-equipped for a front loader from the factory.
The wider front loader frame and new single-section front windscreen provide increased visibility of implements and working area, while the optional 14 LED lights, each producing 2000 lumen, help increase efficiency when working late into the night.
Technology
The Maxxum models also incorporate Advanced Farming Systems (AFS); the Maxxum MC and Maxxum CVX models are pre-equipped ex-factory for AFS™ AccuGuide and are fitted with an AFS Pro 700™ monitor. This means the fully automatic and integrated GPS/GLONASS lane tracking system can be installed by dealerships before delivery. When combined with a locally available RTK+ signal, this system delivers repeatable precision to within the nearest 2.5cm. With the integrated xFill App, the system can even override any failure of the local signal station for up to 20 minutes.
The HMC II headland management system enables working steps to be recorded, improved and automated when performing headland turns. The equipment with ISOBUS Class III, available only on the Maxxum CVX models, takes all of this one step further. Compatible attachments can control individual functions of the tractor, such as its forward speed, PTO speed or operation of its rear hitch. This provides a further boost for performance, productivity and daily output levels.
The new Maxxum models are now available to pre-order, with the first units expected to hit Irish shores in early 2017. Prices remain to be confirmed.
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