Zetor set to take on the market with the new Crystal

Last year, Zetor held a press launch near its base in Brno, Czech Republic, to introduce the new flagship Crystal model.

The new Crystal

Although inspired by the angular outline of the old Crystal, the name is about the only similarity between the original and new models.

The tractor has followed modern trends in product design and boasts a very smart set of lights built into the front grille. Well-placed front and rear work lights are also included in the standard spec, along with a pair of flashing beacons.

Engine and transmission power is provided by a six-cylinder Tier 3B common-rail Deutz Fahr engine which utlilises Adblue technology. Once the current stock of engines are used up in early 2016, production will switch over to Tier 4 engines.

There are two models available within the range, the Crystal 150 and 160, with rated horse powers of 144 and 163 respectively. Zetor is hoping to compete with rivals such as the Case Puma 160 and Claas Arion 650 in this important power bracket.

The transmission consists of 30 forward and 30 reverse gears, with a three-stage powershift which can be run in automatic mode if desired.

Programmable powershift is available for fieldwork. The test model we operated was not calibrated properly, which put the tractor under severe pressure at times with a six-furrow reversible plough at 12in depth. However, it seemed quite simple to operate nonetheless.

Top speed is 40km/h, with Carrero front axle suspension and dual spring suspension used underneath the cab.

Lift capacity on the category III rear linkage is 8,500kg and standard specification for Ireland includes a telescopic Dromone pick-up hitch. Three spool valves are standard. However, control of these is still mechanical, with fiddly levers inside the cab a little bit of a let-down for a tractor of this size.

Similar to the older models, the cab remains spacious, with good storage capacity and decent passenger seat. The hand throttle takes a bit of reaching on the front dash.

Air conditioning controls are within easy reach and for those not a fan of air conditioning, the side windows or sunroof can be opened on those warm days. Noise inside the cab didn’t seem to be a problem when at full throttle, with a rated decibel level of 73.2.

Visibility was good, but the mirrors would seem very small compared with many competitors and may not provide a great view when pulling large trailers or implements, which is what Zetor hopes this tractor will be doing on a daily basis.

The designer’s goal was to keep the tractor simple and the model on show last week was certainly this. However, Zetor Ireland’s Will Doyle says that models destined for Ireland will be higher specification, with 650 and 540 tyres as standard, wider rear mudguards, Grammer air seat and front linkage included.

Although lacking the sophistication of some of its competitors in the 140hp to 160hp bracket, the new Crystal should certainly find favour among farmers and contractors looking for a simpler six-cylinder workhorse. With two new machines already sold in Ireland, the renowned Czech name may be set to shake things up.

Prices are expected to be in the region of €65,000 plus VAT.

News on other models from Zetor

Forterra

The four-cylinder Forterra, which ranges from 96hp to 140hp, has built a loyal following in Ireland among both livestock and mixed farmers who are carrying out arable work.

The two most popular models are the HSX and the higher-specification HD. The HD version is well laid out inside, with an electric forward/reverse shuttle, electric spools and air conditioning, while front suspension is also standard on this model.

Most of these models are sold with a front loader, which, although branded Zetor, is sourced from Alo and for the Irish market includes boom suspension and self-levelling, along with a third valve function.

Proxima

The Proxima range is seen as a true livestock/loader tractor according to Will Doyle, with the majority of models sold from 100hp to 120hp.

Although the machine which we drove had mechanical forward/reverse shuttle, an electric version is standard on the plus model, which would be useful for drivers doing a large amount of loader work.

Visibility down to the front wheels was excellent for yard work, while the majority of controls were within easy reach in the cab. A passenger seat with safety belt is also included across the range.

Major

The baby of the Zetor range is the Major, using a Deutz engine, with a maximum output of 80hp. Accounting for almost 30% of Zetor’s sales in Ireland, this is a popular tractor among farmers of small- to medium-sized holdings who want simplicity and affordability. You could have this tractor on-farm for €33,000 including VAT.

Once again the cab is spacious. Mechanical forward/reverse shuttle is included, with 12 forward and 12 reverse gears. Servicing is made easy with all the main oil and fuel filters located within easy reach.

One of the main attractions is its low height. Standing at only 8ft 7in, it allows for easy access to low sheds.

Hitchtronic

Zetor claims to be the first manufacturer to offer the Hitchtronic function, which has won many industry awards.

This system automatically controls the three-point linkage to provide electronic draft control. Simply set the implement working depth and when the implement reaches the set depth, the control system measures the soil resistance, which automatically changes the draft control. Available across the Proxima, Forterra and Crystal models, Zetor says that fuel savings of between 5% and 7% can be achieved.

Warranty

A two-year warranty is standard across the full Zetor range, with the option to extend this to 48 months if the customer desires.

More to come

Zetor has big plans for the future and is aiming to increase its market share in key regions such as Ireland, Britain and France.

Having increased investment by over 85% in R&D and marketing within the past five years, it is clear to see they are serious about their ambitions.

Zetor on tour

Zetor introduced its new design direction in the form of the Zetor by Pininfarina concept.

Since that time, the news of collaborating with the iconic Italian studio took the tractor world by storm and the tractor has been described as “visually appealing” and the “sportiest-looking” agricultural machinery. The design concept will be travelling to see customers throughout the year.