Driving impression: There is no doubt that the Cat MT-series has quite a tractor act to follow, its predecessor Challenger 35/45/55 models having developed a substantial reputation on this side of ‘The Pond’. Reporting from the US, Charlene Finck takes an initial look at what the all-new Cat Challenger has to offer
Caterpillar is serious about ‘ag’. And if there were any misgivings concerning this commitment, they must surely be laid to rest by the US giant’s investment in third-generation Challenger. This crawler, we’re told, sets new design standards for farm tractors.
For starters, the Cat Intellitronicsbadged total network electronic management system enables the big new 8.8-litre Cat C-9 engine to communicate with the driveline via a high-speed data network. This softens shifting within the 16F/4R powershift transmission, optimises power management and makes better use of fuel. And, on top of that, an optional electronics system allows the tractor to recognise and communicate with implements for co-ordinated operation.
Up in the cab, most of the tractor functions/roles are controlled by the Tractor Management Centre (TMC), which is integrated into an armrest that moves with the operator seat. As well as housing most of the main controls and switches, there is also a computertype display that provides on-going reports on tractor performance and system diagnostic information
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