THERE'S renewed interest in a tractor brand synonymous with Australia's love-affair with high horsepower machinery that took off more than 30 years ago.
Canadian manufacturer Versatile, fresh from a relatively recent multi-million dollar take over by a leading Russian machinery company, is determined to build on its early sales credentials around the world.
Its tilt at the top end broadacre tractor market is being spearheaded by its 'H' series 435, 485, 535 models, which range in capacity from 325kW to 400kW (435 to 535hp), broadening their appeal with the inclusion of Caterpillar's full powershift transmission offering 16F/4R speeds.
Being equipped with a much larger chassis than its original, less powerful, 280kW and 298kW (375hp and 400hp) stable-mates, naturally, the focus of attention is falling on the company's flagship 535 unit.
Meanwhile, rumours abound that this frame is sturdier enough to accommodate any possible move to an even more powerful 450kW (600hp) power plant not to far down the track.
It's been a long and winding road for the Winnipeg-based 4WD manufacturer that was snapped up by Ford New Holland, later having to divest the acquisition before US regulators would give the green light to a merger with Case IH.
At the turn of the century the bonnets of these purposeful-looking goliaths of the paddock sported new owner Buhler Industries' logo.
Today, however, the original Versatile decal returns, thereby underscoring its early credence.
It's a move that should translate into more sales since the expanding model line up increasingly will be seen not only in the prairie's of North America and the Russian steppes but also amongst big ticket machinery owners across Australia.
It is against this backdrop that farm machinery dealers like BRT Machinery's Barry Latta are enthused by the marque's takeover by combine harvester company Rostselmash which recently saw this behemoth acquire an 80 percent stake in the Canadian company's tractor line up.
The Jondaryan-based dealership in southern Queensland says it "jumped at the chance" to offer producers on the Darling Downs the opportunity to climb aboard and experience the up-graded Versatile range.
"Essentially, the designers have refined the product with today's stand out features being their user friendliness coupled with ease-of-maintenance, plus some very competitive pricing," Mr Latta said.
Men like Mr Latta, who "move the metal" from a dealer's forecourt out to a paddock where they must earn their keep, always take an interest in where the grunt come from.
In this instance, on the range-topping 535, it takes the form of a 15L Cummins QSX engine which can also deliver a seven percent power bulge and 35pc lift in torque.
As well, it meets the Tier 3 N0x emission standards.
But it's up in the cab, accessed by a sturdy set of steps forward of the tractor's mid-positioned pivot point that most driver attention will focus.
As expected of tractors of this dimension, there's a welcome sense of space, aided no doubt by the designers making them 20cm (8in) wider than outgoing models.
Now available with an optional training seat, users opting for a deluxe cab package can fit a heated active-suspension seat, electronic automatic climate control, front and rear windshield wipers and washers, power remote heated external mirrors, plus front and rear sun visors.
Their obvious appeal looks to have won over one customer with Mr Latte currently preparing one of the latest Versatile newcomers for delivery within the next few weeks.
Versatile enthusiasts quickly will spot the cooling system’s grille area is 17 percent larger than earlier models, translating to better airflow and cooling. Fuel capacity is increased to 946L (250 gallons), rising to 1325L (350 gallons) on the flagship model.
Other stand out features centre on the hydraulics which are said to have true load sensing tandem piston pumps and a total capacity of 208L/minute (55gpm) with an optional high flow package increasing capacity to 303L/min (80gpm). Four hydraulic remotes are standard with six outlets available as an option.
Cruise control further broadens the appeal.
There’s no doubt the Russian connection – something of a reverse take-over as far as a western-based company is concerned, looks to have added a touch of "professionalism" to the company’s operations.
It’s a point the general manager Versatile Tractors Australia, Doug Robinson, is reinforcing.
On his return from Canada he said: "The new direction Versatile is taking will put the brand back to the number one choice in 4WD tractors in Australia."
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