With a powerful six-cylinder turbocharged and intercooled direct injection engine ranging from 137 to 192 Hp and Auto CommandTM variable transmission technology, New Holland’s TVT series tractors are designed to combine fuel efficiency with productivity and longevity of operation.

"The TVT series has gained fast popularity since its release last year. The AutoController™ multi-task lever takes just minutes to master and allows operators to control all of the tractors’ primary functions and travel speed – up to 50 kph – with the simple push of a conveniently located button," explained New Holland Product Manager, Don Forrester. "In addition, the TVT Series delivers outstanding fuel economy, so important in the current climate of rising fuel costs."

At rated speed, the TVT engine runs at an economical 2,100rpm, reducing noise, vibration and wear. Control of the engine and the Auto Command transmission are taken care of automatically, delivering optimum performance in both PTO and trailed implement applications.

Operators can pre-program several Cruise Control speeds in both forward and reverse and then select between these speed values on-the-go. The Auto Command transmission and engine control will deliver the best possible fuel economy at the selected speed and if required, maintain PTO speed as well.

"For applications that require the PTO and ground speed to be linked, operators can select a Manual Mode, which allows the engine and transmission to operate independently, similar to a conventional tractor," Don explained.

"With high torque levels, full rated power at just 2100rpm and PTO operation from engine speeds as low as 1600rpm, the advanced engines will not only reduce fuel costs – but whole-of-life operating costs as well," Don explained.

Hay and seeding contractor, John Spackman, from Tumut, NSW said the TVT’s fuel savings are vital in the current climate. John bales around 14,000 big square bales a season for farmers within an 80 kilometre radius. "I’ve only been in business for the past two years and I never dreamed that fuel would rise to its current level of around $1.30 a litre. Two years ago, I was only paying between 80 to 90 cents per litre," he said.

"I trialed the TVT155 with my BB940 baler in February and tracked its fuel efficiency closely. I worked out the machine averages 11 litres an hour. My current tractor works at about 15 litres an hour. With the cost of fuel up around $1.30 a litre, I save about $5.20 an hour using the TVT. Over the course of a season, this would be close to a $4,000 fuel saving which is significant in my game with its tight margins."

John was so impressed with the machines fuel efficiency and performance that he’s planning to buy a TVT155 in time for the hay season in October. "Fuel is my biggest overhead so reducing it is vital," he said.

Don Forrester echoed John’s thoughts. "The National Farmers Federation tell us that last year farmers spent almost $1.7 billion on fuel costs, with fuel one of the farm’s biggest input costs, comprising about seven per cent of overheads," he said. "Farmers realise that in order to compete, they need to use machines that will help them to reduce their overheads – including fuel costs."

The TVT Series’ other benefits include the ability for operators to pre-select their working speeds and move quickly to these from a standing start. Slow creep speeds are also no problem, as all speeds between 0 and 50kph can be achieved. Safety is also a key feature. TVT’s Active StopStart system assists operators at road junctions or on slopes by holding the tractor and its load once stopped with minimal use of the brakes. All models feature TerralockTM, an advanced traction management system designed to work in tandem with New Holland’s Headland Turn Sequence system – reducing operator input when maneuvering at the end of rows, or at corners.