magazine - mccormick
TRANSCRIPT
McCORMICK NEWS FROM THE WORLD
The company. Continuous improvement
Xtractor, adventure in Australia
Over 300 HP with the X8 Series
RED POWER DAYS in North America
TECHNICAL INFO. JOURNAL | YEAR 8 | PUBLICATION #8 | JULY 2016
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McCMagazine
ContentsMcCMAGAZINE
TECHNICAL INFO JOURNALORIGINALLY PUBLISHED BY ARGO TRACTORS S.P.A.VIA MATTEOTTI, 7 | 42042 FABBRICO (RE)REGIONALLY PUBLISHED BY MCCORMICK NORTH AMERICA2590 BRECKINRIDGE BLVD, DULUTH, GA 30096
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ANTONIO SALVATERRAREGIONAL EDITING TAYLOR GROUT
GRAPHIC LAYOUT GRUPPO SALDATORI
PREPRESS AND PRINTING CENTROFFSET S.R.L. REGGIO EMILIA
YEAR 8 | PUBLICATION #8 | JULY 2016 AUTH. OF THE COURT OF REGGIO EMILIA N° 1086 OF 19.11.2002
THE COMPANYContinuous improvement
Argo Tractors: open house on April 10, 2016
TRADE SHOWSAgritechnica 2015: worldwide launch for the new X8 Series
Fieragricola: Italian preview of the X8 Series
ARGO PEOPLEFrom Fabbrico... to Australia
THE ORIGINS
Tour around Cyrus McCormick’s farm
XTRACTORXtractor: 4 tractors in an adventure at World’s End
VT-RIDE SHOWTwo American legends on tour
NEWSThe new X2 is launched at Enovitis 2016
The 2016 McCormick calendarNew design for the McCormick logo
Argo Tractors obtains ISOBUS certification McCormick’s leading role at the Carnival of Viareggio
Fourth birthday for McCormick Legacy
PRODUCTX8 Series: power and style
FOCUSMcCormick X7 Standard
INITIATIVESRED POWER DAYS
BRANCHESDealer Meeting at Orlando
X7 Special Edition at the Louisville FairX7 VT Drive New Expérience Tour
Expo Agroalimentaria 2015
WORLDWIDE“Superfresh” milk producer wins award
Fabijan: X50.30 forestry versionP.T. Rutan is the new McCormick importer
Apan: official presentation at AgriplantaOpticom celebrates 25 years in the business
Petros Petropoulos from strength to strength
PARTSFront loaders for the entire McCormick range
SHOPMcCormick Lifestyle
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Cover photo. The new X8 Series.
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McCMagazine
McCormick has embarked upon an approach made up of dust and endeavour, but has done so by implementing diligent team work and unstinting determination. After having renewed practically all the
product families and created completely new ones, McCormick started work on its image, trademark and how to convey its desire to achieve continuous improvement to the customers and market.
One of the first important occasions was Xtractor Around the World, an adventure initially experienced first-hand that will be broadcast during the autumn on Discovery Channel.
A first goal followed by field events like VT-Ride Show, where American legend McCormick shared the road with another American legend (two-wheeled this time), i.e. Harley Davidson.
These exciting initiatives really got us going and we couldn’t wait for Agritechnica, the ideal setting for unveiling the X8 Series, the flagship model that goes beyond the 300 HP mark. Yet another goal that confirmed what’s obvious to all: McCormick is fired with new energy, enthusiasm that makes the difference, and is bent on offering technology, power and reliability “without compromise”. We’re out to conquer the fields, one goal at a time.
Antonio Salvaterra
LEADING ARTICLE
“One goal at a time”
1
Invest in product and production process re-newal. It was with this challenging goal that, starting back in 2013, Argo Tractors began
a radical re-organization process that also involved the tractor range and production lines.
An essential approach, since the quality of the tractors is the result of a long series of operations that begin with design and engineering, and termi-nate when the machines are shipped to the dealers.
Operations in which Argo Tractors has made constant investments over the past few years while focusing on the design and engineering phase of McCormick tractors and production of their com-ponents, including the transmissions of certain product ranges, in the facilities of Fabbrico, Luz-zara and San Martino in Rio, right in the heart of Emilia’s ‘Motor Valley’.
NEW MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGIESFirst of all, the investments made by the Group
have concerned the manufacturing technologies, which are the most modern now available in the
market, robot-controlled systems, three-dimen-sional control machines and fixtures with millimet-ric accuracy levels. Nine latest-generation machin-ing centers have been installed and are now used for machining cast iron castings, while the assem-bly lines and Shipments Terminal have all been modernized. This latter covers an area of some 57,000 sq m and includes a new truck and con-tainer loading platform.
Line 1. A McCormick tractor ready for testing.
Argo Tractors invests in the production process,
pursuing with determination the road to innovation.
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McCMagazine
THE KAIZEN PROJECTArgo Tractors has constantly implemented the
Kaizen project as it proceeded with the ambitious plan to renew its procedures to the advantage of quality.
The project, which got off to a start in 2013, has allowed double-digit improvements to be achieved both as to productivity and product quality, while cutting down the assembly times by 15-20%.
This has also led to financial benefits, since stocks management has improved both as to value and accuracy, with less waste.
The offer of options has been rationalized by eliminating products with a low turnover, which complicated the management processes to a con-siderable extent. But the most important result was that all this triggered off a continuous im-provement process which still proceeds at all cor-porate levels.
DECISION GATESApplication of the Kaizen method has also led
to the introduction of “Decision gates”, check points located along the tractor assembly lines al-lowing any faults that may occur to be detected and eliminated before they are able to continue along the line.
Each day, the production line foremen meet in an area called “Kaizen Point” to gather infor-mation about all the chances for improvement re-
ported in the Gates during the day. The qualitative performance and field reports are also posted in the Kaizen Point for the purpose of informing the line workers and making them accountable for the results of their work while involving them in the problem-solving tasks.
THE COMPANY
Continuous improvement
Fabbrico. View of the
assembly
lines.
San Martino in Rio. End
part of the
assembly line.
Produzione. Assembled tractors
▲
3
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENTWhen it comes to products, Argo Tractors
has invested 5.5% of the turnover in Research & Development over the past 3 years, creating new models which, with the advent of the X8, go beyond the 300 HP mark, and has built a pio-neering new 3000 sq m structure for this spe-cific function.
The building houses a specially outfitted area for the purpose of developing new prototypes plus three test benches, two for testing engines and one for transmissions, designed for testing all 50 to 350 HP tractors.
An important step forward has also been taken as to software since an ultra-modern CAD now al-lows the operator to create extremely real 3D simu-lations and speed up the design engineering stage to a remarkable extent.
QUALIFIED HUMAN RESOURCESInvestments in qualified staff members have
been a fundamental part of the Research & Devel-opment project: newly recruited engineering staff skilled in mechantronics have been attending to the strategic evolution of all the ranges adopted over the past few years.
In practice, along with the investments in technol-ogy, the company decided to employ new, highly quali-fied professionals in the new facility, each specialized in specific research and development tasks. Once again, everything takes place in perfect harmony with the philosophy of the Kaizen project, where man is consid-ered the strategic factor for growth. Thus respect for the needs of the workers and their involvement in the attainment of corporate goals, through to on-going training so as to adapt their professional skills to the continual evolution of the technologies used. ■
Fabbrico. Left: A view of the new Research & Development department. Right: the loading platform at the Terminal.
THE FABBRICO FACILITY
The Fabbrico facility now covers some 132,000 sq m of which 55,000 sq m are taken up by buildings.
The Fabbrico plant manufactures all the 80 to 310 HP McCormick tractors with a production capacity of 60 machines per day. A further 60 machines per day also leave the assembly lines of the Luzzara and San Martino in Rio plants. Production follows the “free mix” con-cept: each tractor on the assembly line is different from the other as to model and specifications.
All the tractors are designed in the Fabbrico plant where over 100 professionals work in the Research & Development department.
Strict compliance with all the occupational safety standards and all measures able to abate the environmental impact of the industrial processes in the plant have always been priority issues at Fabbrico.
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It was an intense and exciting day last April 10, as 1600 people took part in the Argo Tractors Open House event, when the Fab-
brico tractor facility was able to share, with the public as a whole, the results of the radical internal re-organization and development process that had been going on for the past three years.
Thus the visitors were ushered into a facility re-vamped by the adoption of new technologies and latest-generation computerized numerical control machines. A facility now conducted according to the Kaizen production system, which has involved all the tractor plants by improving the industrial, assembly and quality processes, reducing waste and production costs as a consequence.
In addition, the new test track built near the Shipments Terminal now allows Argo Tractors to function at a level of accuracy, reliability and safety
able to conform to the increasingly higher produc-tion standards of the new tractor ranges.
Some of these tractors, the result of new manufacturing processes, were aligned in front of the entrance and along the tour route, in full view of the visitors who made this such a memorable day. These machines included the pioneering Mc-Cormick fleet, especially the imposing X8 and the ultra-modern VT Drive range with eye-catching yellow bodywork, which took pride of place in the courtyard.
The participants thoroughly enjoyed the visit to the enormous satisfaction of the Argo Tractors staff members who had dedicated time, commit-ment and enthusiasm both before and during the event in order to proudly present an efficient Ital-ian company capable of adding value to the Mc-Cormick tractors. ■
THE COMPANY
Argo Tractors: open house
on April 10, 2016
Fabbrico. Photos
of the tour.
Open House. Entrance to the
Argo Tractors
plant with a
close-up of a
X7 VT Drive.
5
The worldwide launch of the new McCor-mick X8 Series took place at Agritech-nica 2015, held in Hanover last 8 to 14
November. A launch that had been widely predicted way back in September in a teaser campaign that involved all the communication media and that culminated in a show entitled “Giant amongst gi-ants”, held during the fair opening day.
Two X8 tractors were spectacularly unveiled amid show-stopping stage effects (lights and smoke) and powerful visual imagery projected on the led video wall at the rear, announced by a hyp-notic count-down that attracted crowds of visitors to the stand. As well as screening the commercial, the show also included two stilt walkers who made their entrance in futuristic suits with lights that lit up on contact with the tractors.
Masterpiece as to design, technology, power and reliability, the X8 was also the key focus of the 3D multisensory station set up in the stand where, wearing anaglyph glasses, visitors were able to ex-
amine the tractor in 3D from different viewpoints by “gesturing” with their hand, including details like the cab, engine and transmission.
This is the first time that McCormick has gone beyond the 300 HP mark. The X8 Series includes three models with 264, 286 and 310 HP power ratings provided by 6-cylinder 6.7 liter Beta Power Fuel Efficiency Tier 4 Final engines with variable-ge-ometry turbocharger. The new range comes with a ZF four-stage continuously variable transmission.
Visitors were also impressed by the stylish bon-net and bodywork of the new range, as well as the cab interiors with standards of comfort comparable to those offered by the car industry: reduced noise level perceived by the operator in the cab, which is insulated and perfectly air conditioned, thus an
Hanover. Part of the
show put on
during the fair.
VT Drive range. X8 and X7 on show.
McCormick. X4 and X5 fitted with loaders.
Agritechnica 2015: worldwide
launch for the new X8 Series
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McCMagazine
excellent place of work as to operator comfort but also attractively designed and with pleasant-to-use ergonomic controls.
Various models from the McCormick VT-Drive range were also on show at Hanover, namely the X6, X7.4 and X7.6 Series. These tractors also fea-ture the continuously variable transmission and, at the present time, are McCormick’s most advanced and efficient proposal for the farming world.
Alongside these, visitors were able to admire the new model in the X7 family: the McCormick X7.650, with 150 HP 6-cylinder engine on show in the Efficient version, designed to provide the high quality and comfort standards of the X7 range as well as meeting the needs of customers on the lookout for a functional, straightforward product.
The Efficient setup is available for the entire X7 range up to the 175 HP power rating. It enhances the practical aspects of the tractor and thus fo-cuses on simplicity, but without sacrificing the peculiar structural characteristics of the X7, char-acteristics that have always been distinguishing features of the McCormick tractors, such as the frame-mounted engine of the 6-cylinder models and the ergonomic controls, allowing operators to become rapidly familiar with the 4- and 6-cylinder versions.
Lastly, visitors to Agritechnica were attracted by the Xtractor corner within the McCormick stand where videos filmed during the expedition of the same name were shown and an X6 with the special Xtractor paintwork could be admired. ■
TRADE SHOWS
X8 Series. The 3D multi-sensory station.
Xtractor. An X6 in the special expedition colours.
7
The pioneering X8 Series was the star of Fieragricola 2016 where, once again, the presence of McCormick was the vis-
ible expression of the determination and eagerness to evolve of a brand famous for its technological and professional commitment.
Targeted on offering increasingly performance-oriented products, McCormick went beyond the 300 HP mark as the X8 Series proposes 264, 286 and 310 HP power ratings provided by 6-cylinder 6.7 liter Betapower Fuel Efficiency Tier4 Final en-gines with “eVGT” electronically controlled varia-ble-geometry turbocharger and SCR exhaust gas aftertreatment system.
The new range comes with a ZF four-stage con-tinuously variable VT-Drive transmission featuring 40 km/h ECO top speed at 1,300 rpm engine rate and 50 km/h ECO top speed at 1,600 rpm.
A standard feature of X8 is the certified ISO-BUS system that handles the operation of com-patible implements thanks to a dedicated menu in the 12” DSM touchscreen monitor.
The powerful closed-center hydraulic circuit has a 157 l/min load sensing pump (a 212 l/min oversized
pump is available as an optional) and can handle up to ten electrohydraulically controlled control valves with 140 l/min flow rate. The rear electronic power lift ensures 12,000 kg maximum lifting capacity.
The electrohydraulically engaged rear PTO of-fers three speeds, 540E/1000E/1000, as one of the standard features.
Fieragricola: Italian preview of the X8 Series
Verona. The new X8 Series plays a leading role at the fair.
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McCMagazine
TRADE SHOWS
With its 5,000 kg lifting capacity, the front power lift is also part of the standard equipment and can be supplied (on request) with a 1000 rpm PTO.
The front axle has an electronically controlled central-pivot suspension system and oil-immersed disc brakes for the utmost in safety and driving comfort.
18,000 kg maximum permissible weight, 3,000 mm wheelbase and up to 900/60R42 rear wheel combinations.
Astoundingly stylish from its bonnet to its cab and mudguards, the new and seductive X8 Series sports an aggressive design that marks a further evolution of McCormick’s modern family feeling.
The X7 Series “Efficient” was another of the main attractions at Fieragricola 2016 where the McCormick X7.650 “Efficient” with 160 HP 6-cyl-inder engine was on show in the special version introduced at the Hanover Fair, designed to com-bine simplicity and functional superiority with the high quality standards of the PS-Drive transmis-sion. The new setup, available for the entire X7 range, enhances the practical aspects of the trac-
tor and thus focuses on simplicity, but without sacrificing the peculiar structural characteristics of the X7, characteristics that have always been distinguishing features of the McCormick trac-tors, such as the frame-mounted engine and er-gonomic controls.
The standard equipment of the X7 Series “Effi-cient” range includes the 88 l/min open-center hy-draulic circuit, two basic mechanical control valves, the 6300 kg capacity rear power lift and the cab with air conditioning system and seat with air sus-pension.
McCormick also focused on the VT-Drive range at Verona where several models from the ultra-new X6, X7.4 and X7.6 Series were on show. Tractors that also feature the VT-Drive continuously vari-able transmission and that represent McCormick’s most advanced and efficient proposal for farming professionals.
Fieragricola confirmed the close relationship be-tween McCormick and the renowned Cantine “Fer-rari” of Trento, two enterprises that share values based on productive excellence founded upon terri-torial vocation. This was underscored in the McCor-mick area throughout the entire event by the pres-ence of a corner dedicated to sparkling wine, where the visitors were able to enjoy a welcome glass of Ferrari Trentodoc. ■
February 2016 Left: the stand
at Fieragricola.
Right: the stand
at Fima.
February 2016 was an important month for McCormick which, from the 16th to the 20th, took part in Fima, the international agricultural machinery fair of Zaragoza.
Besides launching the X8 and X7 Series Efficient on the Spanish market, McCormick also presented the X6 and X7 VT-Drive ranges with continu-ously variable transmission.
The X6 VT-Drive version is available with the same power ratings (120 to 140 HP) as the standard X6 range but features the continuously variable transmission created by Argo Tractors with mul-tifunction armrest and VT-Easypilot system, allowing total control over the various different tractor functions. This range ensures maximum
operator comfort in all applications, from heavy-duty open-field work to general farm jobs, use in breeding farms and for ground care.
The McCormick X7 VT-Drive Series comprises three models (X7.440, X7.450 and X7.460) with 4-cyl-inder BetaPower Fuel Efficiency engines and 147, 160 and 176 HP power ratings plus two models with 6-cylinder engines (X7.660 and X7.670) featuring 181 and 195 HP Power Plus ratings.
Standard equipment for the entire McCormick X7 VT-Drive range includes the DSM system (Data Screen Manager, i.e. a 12” Touchscreen monitor) for controlling the tractor’s operating param-eters and performance, as well as the ISOBUS area compliant with ISO 11783 standards.
ANOTHER SUCCESS AT FIMA, ZARAGOZA
Fieragricola: Italian preview of the X8 Series
9
ARGO PEOPLE
From Fabbrico... to Australia
Argo Tractors has been implementing a major investment plan over the past few years. By renewing the tractor
range, the company has focused on fast-tracking its strategies and facing competition at the very highest levels.
The decision to recruit talented young, some-times newly graduated staff members and en-trust them with increasing responsibility confirms the desire to attain the corporate goals to an even further extent.
The experience of one of these young men is outlined below: one of the many professional and personal stories that unmistakably highlights pride and sense of belonging to the Argo Tractors family.
These values are dis-tinctive features of Argo Tractors and testify to a driving force, pure energy able to tackle the immense challenges of global com-petition.
«My name is Filippo and I come from a little town in the hin-terland of Modena. I never ever thought I’d come this far, just 27 years old, on the other side of the world.
During my last year at the University of Economics in Modena, back in 2012, I decided to move to London for a year or so, finish my thesis and improve my English. Although I found it pretty hard going, especially because of the language difficulties, I started to work for a firm but as I didn’t want to remain in London, I began to send off a large number of CV.
I was hired by Argo Tractors in December 2012 as a Jun-ior Export Area Manager. I was only 24, but very determined and eager to learn.
I worked as a back office sales assistant for about eight-een months and was able to observe how a large Italian company operated. I learned how to get along with the man-agement, with the various different departments and how to deal with the daily problems. I got to know the product and technical characteristics.
I saw that the company was being radically re-organized: so many changes, lots of investments. I realized how exten-sive was the project of which I was part. During this period, I used to visit importers and customers in different countries about once every 2 months.
Thanks to this experience, I gradually came to realize that this was the right job for me. I’m an open-minded per-son. I like to meet people and get to know different cultures, but I also want to achieve the final result and goal.
The company believed in me and promoted me to Area manager.
I began to take care of certain areas, the Baltic States, Israel and several Eastern European markets, followed by Greece and certain countries of the former USSR.
Two very challenging, difficult years as to the economic situation in Europe, also because Argo Tractors is a truly big enterprise. Until that time I had never realized just how big.
It’s important to know your way around, know how to interact at different organizational levels and never lose sight of the result, because in the long run, it’s the result that counts.
During these two years, I’ve had the chance to exchange views with colleagues who are much more expert than I, peo-ple who’ve helped me and taught me such a lot about techni-
cal matters, relationships and strategies both inside and outside the company.
The company has changed a lot in two years, both as to exten-sive product renewals and as to human resources. A lot of young people with the desire to achieve have been recruited. A great team has also been created in the Export area. Teams like this
are tantamount to human capital for Argo and its custom-ers. I believe that it’s all-important to work in a team where someone is always ready to lend you a hand. In my opinion, this is what our sales department now represents.
In March 2015, as part of plans to develop the sales net-work, the company needed someone to look after business in Australia and New Zealand. Confirming their confidence in my abilities, they decided to offer me this opportunity.
I knew it wouldn’t be easy, especially owing to the distance, but I was sure it would be the experience that would completely change my life. I started out for Australia on June 1. The first 8 months were the most difficult and tiring: scouting around Australia and New Zealand, 50 flights, two continents and over 25,000 km on the road. A never-ending journey visiting all the dealers and importers in the 2 countries.
Then a more stable period in Melbourne. A phase that continues according to needs and results.
Starting all over again on the other side of the world is certainly not simple: new culture, new language and different markets, but with Italy always at heart. I love Italy and I’m sure that enterprises like ours, those that export our quality worldwide, will be its salvation.»
Filippo Bassoli[Resident Manager Australia and New Zealand]
Filippo Bassoli. One of the
protagonists
of the Xtractor
team.
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THE ORIGINS
It’s called McCormick Farm, the enterprise in Raphine, Vir-ginia, where Cyrus McCormick
founded the McCormick Deer-ing Company back in 1831, revo-
lutionizing the world of agriculture by inventing the first mechanical reaper. Now owned by the Virginia Polytechnical Institute, the enterprise is beauti-fully maintained and serves as a functioning farm, museum site, teaching facility, picnic spot and his-torical landmark open daily for visitation.
In addition, McCormick Farm has, for many years, an on-going agreement with the current McCormick North America branch which supplies tractors for all the farming and soil-working activities.
The 634 acre farm includes the original work-shop, mill and a reproduction of the reaper that paved the way towards more efficient, evolved and successful farming.
As a historical landmark, the McCormick Farm can be visited all year round. Eight of the nine origi-nal buildings are still standing on the property and have been renovated and converted into museum sites. Each of the different buildings played an im-portant role in the daily routine of the McCormick Farm, beginning with their creation in 1822 by Rob-ert McCormick, Cyrus’s father.
Arguably the most important of these buildings was the blacksmith’s shop, where Cyrus engineered the legendary reaper. It is believed that McCormick designed, built and tested his first reaper within just six weeks. After the first model, he continually made
improvements and came out with a new model every decade. This is the level of efficiency, ingenu-ity and determination that started the McCormick brand, and has continued to fuel our evolution over the last 185 years.
While the property served as a prosperous farm, the school house also played an important role in the community. The McCormick family maintained a school on their property for all neighboring children for many years, thereby contributing to the success of the future farmers.
In 1954 the McCormick Farm was donated to the Virginia Polytechnical Institute as an agricultural center and Memorial Farm. It was later declared a National Historic Landmark in 1964.
Thus the farm is a truly important part of the history of agriculture and agricultural machinery in the United States, where the success of today’s Mc-Cormick Tractors has its roots. ■
Trip around the farmof Cyrus McCormick
Raphine. Vintage McCormick machines.
McCormick Farm. The 634
acre farm in
Raphine, Virginia.
11
The McCormick fleet. The tractors often left the roads to venture into the wild Australian outback.
An unusual encounter. A tractor meets up with Australian wildlife.
12
For the very first time, one of Europe’s leading agricultural machinery manufac-turers opted for a pioneering TV format in
order to meet the general public. Thus McCormick organized Xtractor Around
the World between September and October 2015, a 45-day tractor expedition to World’s End with multi-channel media coverage.
A docu-reality that involved McCormick X7 and X6 Series tractors as they were driven 8,500 kilom-eters across Australia, from Melbourne to Ayers Rock, passing through the states of Victoria, New South Wales, the Northern Territories and Queensland.
Twelve people, 4 McCormick tractors (three X7 and an X6), 3 support vehicles, average distance per lap 200 kilometers, 50% of the route over dirt track, top speed 50 km/h.
These are the key data of the expedition: a first stage in a journey planned to continue around the world in the next editions.
The expedition benefited from important sponsors such as BKT, CBM-MITA, Grammer, Hella, Petronas, Topcon and VGV, actively in-volved in the technical preparation of vehicles and crews, as well as Viar Valvole and the banking group BNP Paribas.
▲
Xtractor: 4 tractors in an adventure
at World’s End
The expedition. No more paved roads. The dirt tracks now begin.
New South Wales. One of the many fords across rivers in the off-road stages of the expedition.
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McCMagazine
Special mention must go to McCormick’s Australian importer Clark Equipment, for having provided men, means and resources throughout the adventure.
True to the pioneering and competitive pol-icy of the Argo Tractors Group, McCormick re-sorted to extreme TV reality techniques to un-derscore the importance of technical, human and ethical values when your goal is to excel in an increasingly competitive world.
The initiative revolved around the social re-sponsibility of the technologies used in the ag-ricultural sector, thus respect for the environ-ment, operator safety, food production quality and sustainability.
Xtractor Around the World entertained viewers by talking about the daily challenges faced by farmers and tractor technology in ways that everyone could understand.
The www.xtractor.tv website and dedi-cated social channels provided live coverage of the adventure experienced by the powerful McCormick tractors: an exciting journey to dis-cover our planet’s immense and fragile beauty, with special focus on the many faces of agri-culture, where extreme conditions are often part of daily life. ■
▼
THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES
The Xtractor Around the World expe-dition left on Tuesday September 1, 2015 from Dandenong and headed towards Apollo Bay, reaching its final destination on October 10, 2015 at the foot of the sacred rock formation of Uluru, after which the tractors were taken back to Alice Springs.
Thus the first chapter of Xtractor came to a close. A unique experience that now continues on social networks
Facebook and Instagram, where photos are still being published, as well as on Italian TV, since a documentary about the expedition is due to be shown on Discovery Channel in autumn.
The 2017 McCormick calendar will also be dedicated to the Xtractor expedition as well as a lovely book, in which the best photos taken during the expedition will be pro-posed, stage by stage.
The volume and calendar. They can be purchased from your dealer or on-line.
Northern Territory. State Route 12, called “Plenty Highway” during the stage between Tobermorey and the final leg to Alice Springs.
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McCMagazine
grigio: Pantone 431 C
blu: Pantone 289 C
12 persone e 4 trattori ai confini del mondo. Xtractor Around the World - Australia è la spedizione che ha percorso oltre 8.500 chilometri da Melbourne ad Ayers Rock attraverso gli stati del Victoria, Nuovo Galles del Sud, Queensland e Territori del Nord.
Attraverso il resoconto fotografico dei 50 giorni di viaggio, questo libro racconta un’Australia fatta di sterminate campagne, i mille volti di una natura spettacolare e i forti contrasti tra le aree urbanizzate e il mondo incantato dell’outback.
12 people and 4 tractors to the edge of the world. Xtractor Around the World - Australia:
a 8,500-km. expedition from Melbourne to Ayers Rock, through
Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and Northern Territory.
This book is a photo report of the expedition’s 50-day journey across the
endless Australian countryside, its pristine nature and the conspicuous
contrast between metropolitan areas and the wild beauty of the outback.
AUSTRALIA
AU
ST
RA
LIA
Una straordinariaavventura di 8.500 km
An extraordinary adventure of 8.500 km
New South Wales. Stage across the Blue Mountains.
Australian outback. The tractor caravan travels on.
Queensland. Meeting with the local population between
Bundabeng and Agnes Water. The final destination. Ayers Rock or “Uluru” in Aboriginal language.
15
Foggia. One of the X7 VT Drive protagonists of the tour.
At the end of November 2015, the much coveted award raffled by the McCormick VT-Ride Show was drawn by lot by the notary in charge.
The brand new Harley Davidson 883 Iron raffled off among all participants in the 4 stages of the tour, was won by Claudio Pisanti from Carbonate, whose family runs a beef cattle farm in the province of Como. Pisanti had
taken part in the stage at Robecco sul Naviglio on October 4.
The winner received his prize last December 28 at the Argo Tractors headquarters in Fabbrico (RE) in the presence of Sales Manager for Italy Mario Danieli, Marketing Manager Antonio Salvaterra and area dealer Andrea Tolfo of Agrimec in Appiano Gentile (CO).
THE WINNER OF THE HARLEY DAVIDSON IS FROM COMO
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McCMagazine
Caorle (VE). A group of participants in the lap.
The McCormick X7 VT-Drive in an unusual pairing with another American-made legend. It was at last September’s “McCormick VT-
Ride Show”, an event dedicated to the VT-Drive tractor range with continuously variable transmis-sion, that McCormick made its appearance along-side another brand with American DNA: Harley Davidson.
A tour divided into 4 stages, each lasting one day, that visited the provinces of Foggia, Ancona, Venice and Milan where extensive 25-50 acre areas had been prepared for technical trials and where the participants were able to test the McCormick tractors first hand.
To highlight the significant break-through achieved by the VT-Drive technol-ogy applied to the X7 range, from Foggia to Senigallia (AN), Caorle (VE) and Robec-co sul Naviglio (MI) where the last stage of the tour was held, the VT-Ride Show provided as many as five 145 to 196 HP X7 VT-Drive tractors with yellow paintwork, assisted by McCormick tractor drivers, to all those who wished to test their prowess.
To complete the McCormick formation, 4 red tractors with PS-Drive and Xtrashift transmissions also lined up alongside the X7 VT-Drive models.
Having started out on September 13 from Fog-gia and backed by the McCormick dealers of the areas involved, the tour was successful far beyond expectations since over 3,000 people took part, 1,000 of which in Foggia alone. But the triumphant outcome was not merely due to the crowds of peo-ple who flocked to the event. Significant were the many enthusiastic remarks from participants who were able to try out the tractors and realize how easy they were to operate, thanks to their pioneer-ing and highly user-friendly electronics.
Besides the modern design, visitors much ap-preciated the engine and transmission perfor-mance, as well as the simple, intuitive controls.
The event was also animated by recreational attractions, refreshment areas and a raffle open to all registered participants, where the final prize was a gleaming Harley Davidson 883 motocy-cle, Made in Usa icon. ■
VT-RIDE SHOW
VT-Ride Show: Two American legends on tour
Senigallia (AN). X7 at work with different implements.
Pho
to: ©
Fra
nces
co R
usso
.
17
The new X2 is launched at Enovitis 2016
New design for the McCormick logo
The 2016 McCormick calendar
The 2016 edition of Enovitis in Campo, which took place on June 17 and 18 in the
splendid wine-making estate of Torrevento in Co-rato, was the ideal venue for the first-ever preview of the new McCormick X2 range.
Successor of the particularly versatile GM se-ries, the new X2 Series will be available in both the standard version and in the new GE lowered version.
Thanks to the specially engineered rear final drives and front axle, the overall height of this lat-ter tractor version is actually 95 mm lower than the STD version, rear tyres being equal.
The dimensions become extremely compact with 24” rear tyres: 1,420 mm minimum width and just 1,230 mm height to steering wheel. 20” rear tyres are also be available as optionals. All this en-sures the best performance where height and width clearance are limited, such as awning vineyards or greenhouses.
The range features 44 HP to 54 HP Yanmar en-gines and comes in three models: X2.20, X2.30, X2.40 STD or GE.
Backed by Unione Italiana Vini and Veronafiere with the sponsorship of Regione Puglia and Feder-Unacoma, the event was organized in collaboration with the McCormick dealers of Puglia.
The McCormick logo gets a new look. Redesigned in 2000 when the historic
American brand was acquired by Argo Group, after 15 years the logo has been modernized to adapt perfectly to the new McCormick product family feeling.
First the lettering was completely restyled to provide more weight and improve readability while the emblem, in corporate red, has become more concise and dynamic. The main goal of the new logo is to visually transmit McCormick’s commit-
ment to innovation and technology thanks to con-temporary, clear-cut graphic appeal.
Although it differs from the previous logo, the new design maintains all the main identify-ing features of the McCormick brand including the three well-known elements slanting from right to left.
McCormick celebrated the evolution of its tractor range with the 2016 McCormick
wall calendar. The new “X” range offers the cut-ting edge of design, features, performance and advanced technologies, beginning with the lowest power ratings: the X1 and X4 Series, through to the more powerful X5, X6 and X7 series.
Designed in the vertical format for easy wall-hanging, each month depicts a spectacular photo of a McCormick tractor hard at work, with the the calendar portion at the bottom. The 2016 McCor-mick wall calendar could be customized by partici-pating dealers as a way to keep their dealership, and the McCormick brand, in front the customer.
Bari. The new McCormick X2 at Enovitis in Campo 2016.
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McCMagazine
NEWS
Argo Tractors obtains ISOBUS certification
McCormick’s leading role at the Carnival of Viareggio
Fourth birthday for McCormick Legacy
Use new technologies, such as the ISO-BUS standard, to meet the needs of
leading-edge agriculture. A goal that Argo Tractors achieved when,
in September 2015, the company was awarded Isobus certification by AEF (Agricultural In-dustry Electronics Foundation).
The tests conducted by Reggio Emilia In-novazione, an organization qualified to issue ISOBUS certification (ISO 11783) as universal protocol for electronic communication between implements, tractors and computers, were passed with ease thanks to the Tractor ECU
controller (TECU), fine-tuned by Argo Tractors.
Adoption of the ISOBUS system, available in the McCormick high-power ranges, will allow data and in-formation to be exchanged between tractor and implement in a universal language via a single console built into the tractor itself.
Argo Tractors came out in force at the 2016 Carnival of Viareggio, one of the most
important carnival events in Italy and Europe where enormous floats parade along the seafront of the Versilia resort each year.
Backed by previous experience, having part-nered many major Carnival events in Italy and world-wide, Argo Tractors took part in the Carni-val of Viareggio with help from Pardi, McCormick dealer for the province of Lucca.
Power, reliability and towing capacity were the characteristics provided by the tractors used for towing these imposing floats for the entire dura-tion of the Carnival, while visitors were able to examine at close quarters a few of the machines displayed by the dealer.
The Clark family of Newburgh, Indiana (USA), holds a unique and notable loyalty to the Mc-
Cormick brand and recently celebrated the 4th birth-day of their son, McCormick Clark, a bright little boy, whom they named after a McCormick tractor.
This relationship began in 1947 when McCor-mick’s great grandfather purchased a brand new McCormick Deering M, a tractor that the family still uses today. From that point on, McCormick tractors have been a big part of the Clark’s family lifestyle.
“We are 110% sure that McCormick will grow up to become a livestock farmer, because he has a passion for tractors and country life like no other,” McCormick’s father, Kyle, said in an interview about his son. In addition to the tractors used on the farm, Kyle Clark also told of how they hold their loyalty to
McCormick tractors through a collection of historical McCormicks. In fact, it was when Kyle and his then pregnant wife, Stacie, were working on restoring an antique tractor that they decided to name their soon-to-be-born son McCormick.
“The name” Kyle reflected, “just seemed right and couldn’t be more perfect.” And on February 22, 2012, McCormick Clark was born.
Newburgh. McCormick Clark beside the renovated tractor.
19
Look. The new hood design, evolution of the family feeling.
Mcormick goes beyond the 300 HP mark with the X8 Series and does so in style, with the utmost attention to
operator comfort. Created for demanding farm-contractors who need to use their tractor full time, the new “X8” provides advanced technologies and comes fully outfitted, combining unrivalled levels of design and comfort.
As a result of 100% of Argo Tractors’ engineer-ing expertise, X8 models features automotive-based styling details evident in the lines of the hood, mudguards, the re-vamped Premiere Cab. The layout and ease-of-use of the operating con-trols for the VT-Drive CVT transmission, the most advanced type of transmission available, further lends to the level of details in the machine’s design.
Innovation is apparent in every feature of the range, from engine to hydraulic circuit and axles through to the electronics, where a certified ISO-BUS system (installed as part of the standard equipment) allows implements compatible with this technology to be controlled via a dedicated menu in the 12” DSM touchscreen monitor.
DESIGN WITHOUT COMPROMISEMcCormick aimed to create a tractor able to
amaze the customers and operators.
A goal that’s been fully achieved with the X8 Series, a range with aggressive, appealing lines fol-lowing the modern family feeling.
The design features are surprising: the taut, dynamic lines of the hood and mudguards, latest-generation LED lights on the rear mudguards and LED light clusters skillfully built into the front grille are all in perfect automotive style.
The tank incorporates 4 well-spaced steps to facilitate access to the cab. The catalytic converter of the SCR system is also built into the tank and connects discretely to the exhaust stack on the right-hand upright of the cab.
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McCMagazine
VT-DRIVE TRANSMISSIONX8 Series combines ground-breaking technol-
ogy with a decidedly modern, advanced look. First of all, the new continuously variable VT-
Drive transmission provides an infinite number of travel speeds, from 0 up to 32 mph (50 kph), to meet any need around the farm.
The four operating ranges of the transmission
can be customized by the operator for use with specific implements (baler, disc harrow, planter) or to complete a specific task (plowing, mowing, transport).
The VT Easy Pilot proportional control handle on the multi-function armrest (built into the opera-tor’s seat) houses controls dedicated to tractor op-eration: acceleration, Remote Shuttle, power lift up/down controls, Cruise control, engine rate sensor, a hydraulic control valve and controls for automated headland management. Push button controls ad-just functions that appear in the digital display of the front dash and in the DSM touchscreen moni-tor, which is part of the standard equipment. ▲
Design. Led lights built into the rear mudguards.
Premiere Cab. Automotive-
style look and
comfort.
PRODUCT
“The McCormick range that tops the 300 HP limit.
Innovation of the pioneering and reliable VT-Drive continuous transmission.
A modern exclusive design. ”
X8 Series, power and style
21
X8: THE APPLICATIONS
▲
Open field workThe X8 VT Drive Series provides excellent performance in all open-field work, including the most difficult jobs. 6-cylinder BETAPOWER fuel efficient engines plus CVT transmission combine power and perfor-mance in even the most arduous situations.
▲
PTO applicationsAn optimum PTO speed can always be maintained thanks to the continuously variable transmission by adjusting the behavior of the transmission to prioritize engine speed over ground speed.
▲
Transport jobsEasy, safe transport work in the fields with low fuel consumption thanks to the correct transmission ratio and constant traction.
▲
Farm workThe user-friendly transmission and high-flow hydraulic circuit with up to 6 rear spool valves available allow the X8 Series to adapt perfectly to any sort of farm work.
ENGINE: OVER 300 HORSEPOWER
The Tier 4 Final engine, which allows the range to go beyond the 300 HP mark, is the heart beat of the X8 Series. McCormick offers three models with 264, 286 and 310 engine HP, ratings provided by a powerful 6-cylinder, 6.7 liter BETAPOWER diesel engine equipped with eVGT electronically controlled variable-geometry turbocharger and advanced SCR exhaust gas aftertreatment system.
The engine is housed in a sturdy cast iron chassis that actively contributes towards isolating the cab from vibrations and noise. Lastly, the fully opening hood and pivoting radiator package makes cleaning, in-spections and routine maintenance both easier and quicker.
Front axle. The comfortable suspension system is part of the standard equipment. Rear power lift. 26,400 lb (12,000 kg) lifting capacity.
X8.660VT DRIVE
X8.670VT DRIVE
X8.680VT DRIVE
ENGINE
TIER 4 INTERIM / STAGE 3B BETAPOWER BETAPOWER BETAPOWERMAX ENGINE POWER AT 1900 RPM (ISO TR 14396 ECE R120) HP/KW 264/194 286/210 310 /228ENGINE POWER RATING AT 2200 RPM (ISO TR 14396 ECE R120) HP/KW 258/190 271 /199 301 / 221ENGINE RATE RPM 2100 2100 2100MAXIMUM TORQUE (ISO TR 14396 ECE R120) LB-FT/NM 835/1132 880/1194 945/1282TORQUE RESERVE (WITH POWER PLUS) 37% 32% 28%
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McCMagazine
drive and diff lock engagement. Designed for the specific X8 power ratings,
the rear axle is sturdy and reliable, with an oil-im-mersed multiplate annular disc brake system.
PREMIERE CABWhen you’re at the wheel of your X8, you’ll
enjoy a panoramic view that only a Premiere Cab can provide. The 4 post and generously sized win-dows are topped by a roof with 10 field lights and opening transparent roof window that’s convenient when using a front loader.
The user-friendly VT-Easy Pilot proportional control handle operates all the main tractor func-tions. Along with the suspended cab and front axle, the air-ride seat with vibration damping sys-tem, revolving base and climate controlled backrest provide a cushioning effect in all driving conditions. The automotive-style cab interior will quickly bring you to a level of comfort that you’ll soon not be able to do without.
Pressurized climate control isolates the cab interior from the outside with extremely low noise level. The highly efficient automatic air conditioning system installed on the roof en-sures optimum air flow in any climate. ■
HYDRAULIC CIRCUIT The X8 Series features a closed-center hydrau-
lic circuit with load sensing variable displacement pump that constantly adjusts the oil flow to match the requirements, thereby preventing unnecessary power consumption.
The circuit provides 41 gpm (157 lpm) for the power lift and control valves and 30 gpm (115 lpm) for the steering system, thereby allowing all the hy-draulic implements to be used at the same time. An optional 56 gpm (212 lpm) pump for hydraulic services is available for high demands.
The rear electronic power lift provides 26,400 lb (12,000 kg) lifting capacity with draft sensing on the lower links. The electro-hydraulically engaged rear PTO offers three speeds, 540E/1000E/1000, as standard equipment for versatility.
With a 11,000 lb (5,000 kg) lift capacity, the front 3-point hitch is also standard equipment and can include a front PTO.
FRONT AND REAR AXLE The front axle has an electronically controlled
central-pivot suspension system and oil-immersed disc brakes for the utmost in safety and driving comfort. It also features automatic four-wheel
▼
PRODUCT
Premiere Cab. 4-post cab with large windows and all-glass doors provide exceptional space and visibility.
23
It’s called “Standard”, the new X7 Series configuration designed to provide the high quality and comfort of the X7 tractor range,
as well as meet the needs of customers on the lookout for a functional, straightforward product. The Standard configuration is available for select models in the X7 line up, including the X7.440, X7.650, and X7.660.
Although this version maintains the same en-gine and transmission characteristics as the cur-rent X7 Premium models, McCormick has focused on simplicity without sacrificing the specific char-acteristics of the X7 - characteristics that have always been distinguishing features of the McCor-mick tractors, such as the frame-mounted engine of the 6-cylinder models, Premiere Cab and ergo-nomic controls, allowing operators to become rap-idly familiar with the tractor.
The in-base equipment of the X7 Series “Stand-ard” range includes the 32.5 gpm (123 lpm) closed-center hydraulic circuit, three basic mechanical control valves, the 14,000 lb (6300 kg) capacity rear 3-point hitch and the cab with air conditioning system and seat with air suspension.
HYDRAULIC CIRCUITThe basic hydraulics for X7 Series Standard fea-
ture a closed-center system with up to 32.5 gpm (123 lpm) flow rate dedicated to the implement system (separate 11 gpm pump for steering), which handles up to 3 mechanically controlled rear valves and 1 electronic valve. The rear 3-point hitch oper-ates electroncially for precise implement control.
CAB AND INTERIORSThe Premiere Cab has a conventional, manually
operated air-conditioning system and fully adjust-able air-suspended seat. It is a true technological operations center where the operator can control the tractor with ease and with a superior level of comfort. Besides the styling, ergonomics and func-tionality of the controls, what strikes the onlooker most is the quality of the finishes, where automi-tive-inspired materials and interior designs make everything even more cozy. The new right side console houses most major tractor functions and controls for easy operation.
POWERFUL, EFFICIENT ENGINESAll the X7 Standard models are equipped with
the new BETAPOWER fuel efficient engines that are EPA compliant. The X7.440 has a 4-cylinder, 4.5 liter engine that generates up to 143 horse-power, while the X7.650 and X7.660 feature a 6-cylinder, 6.7 liter engine that produces 160 and 175 horsepower respectively. All engines feature a wastegated turbocharger, high pressure common rail direct fuel injection and an advanced SCR sys-tem. The enhanced electronic injection system and optimized combustion combine with the SCR after treatment process to provide an extremely power-ful and efficient engine: greater power and mas-sive torque reserve with lower fuel consumption.
McCormick X7 Standard
Cab interior. Controls
grouped in the
console.
Engine. The models
feature
clean-burning,
EPA-compliant
engines.
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McCMagazine
PRO-DRIVE TRANSMISSIONThe durable and reliable Pro-Drive transmission
with electro-hydraulic reverse shuttle offers 24 speeds in 6 synchronized ranges and 4 power shift speeds. The fully automated gearbox features push-button shifting through all speeds using the MFC controller in the right side console. Hydraulic reverse shuttle with left hand operation and modu-lation control is standard equipment for convenient operation.
Enhanced flexibility is provided by the creeper-gear set, part of the standard equipment, which provides 16 additional working speeds. Thus, the
operator can be sure of the right speed for every application. X7 Standard models are fully capable of 25 mph road speeds for transport applications.
VERSATILE PTOThe X7 Standard is designed to work in the
field. For powering rear implements, each trac-tor is equipped with a 4-speed PTO system: 540/540e/1000/1000e RPM. Shaft change is simple without oil leak, thanks to the flange-type design. A wet multi-disc PTO clutch engages elec-tronically, and features modulation control to pro-tect implement drivelines during start up.
■
FOCUS
Radiators. The front
radiators pivot
open for easy
service and
maintenance.
Rear 3-point hitch.
Telescopic ball
ends for easy
implement
connection.
25
Community. Attendees enjoy a meal, camaraderie and fun.
In late 2014, McCormick North America em-barked on a new path, with a new initiative to introduce the “X Series” family of McCor-
mick tractors to the USA and Canadian markets. Known as RED POWER DAYS, McCormick spon-sored a series of events around the region to show-case the new tractor models, as well as to renew McCormick’s commitment to partnering with and supporting our local dealers. Four dealers hosted RED POWER DAYS events in 2014 to kickstart the program.
For 2015 and 2016, McCormick not only re-newed the RED POWER DAYS initiative, but dou-bled down on the commitment. Dealers in the USA and Canada regions hosted 16 events in 2015, and have scheduled 23 events through the end of 2016.
WHAT IS RED POWER DAYS?The RED POWER DAYS initiative was inspired
by the need to showcase the new “X Series” trac-tors to the North American market. Beginning in 2014, McCormick launched the first X family, the X7 Series. Within 18 months, the entire product offering from McCormick has been replaced with new X models: X1, X4, X5, X6, X6L, and X7.
McCormick North America had to invest in a program to get the new tractors out into the mar-
ket where dealers and customers can see, touch and drive the new machines. Dealers signed up to host these customer-facing events at their facili-ties, and McCormick provided the tractors and ex-pertise to showcase the entire new line-up.
COME AND SEE US!Each RED POWER DAYS event is planned and
hosted by a participating McCormick dealer. Sur-rounding farmers and customers are invited to at-tend each one-day event that is held at the deal-ership facility, or in a field nearby where the new tractors can be driven and/or put to work by poten-
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McCMagazine
tial customers coming out to see the new machines. Not only does the RED POWER DAYS show off the latest McCormick tractors, but it keeps the dealer in touch with his customers. All attendees are treat-ed to a hearty meal, good camaraderie, and often time even a little fun with games and door prizes.
BUILD A STRONGER BOND
Though the new McCormick tractors are the focus of the RED POWER DAYS initiative, there is another benefit of the program. Each event is a chance for McCormick to demonstrate its com-mitment and support to both the dealer and the end user. During each event, a McCormick com-pany representative stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the McCormick dealer to show an unwaivering commitment to support each product in the field. This level of support only strengthens the bond be-tween McCormick and its dealer network, and gives confidence to customers looking for a quality, de-pendable farm tractor.
■
Instruction. Customers learn about McCormick tractors.
Family Event. Each RED
POWER DAYS
is hosted
by a local
McCormick
dealer
INITIATIVES
“It keeps us in touch with our customers, and reminds them that
we are there for them with the right products and services
to support their needs.”
RED POWER DAYS
27
Louisville. National Farm Machinery Show.
In February 2016, McCormick took part in the National Farm Machinery Show in Lou-
isville, Kentucky, the largest indoor farm show in the United States and one of the most important North American events dedicated to agricultural equipment.
With over 200,000 visitors over 4 days, the event was the right place to showcase the newest X4, X5, X6, X6L and X7 series tractor series fea-turing cutting edge design and technology. Center stage was the new X7 VT-Drive Series tractors in an unusual, “Limited edition” color scheme with exclusive features.
Customers from around the country, and around the world, came to preview the latest prod-ucts from McCormick.
There were 63 dealers from the USA and Canada at the 2016 McCormick North
America Dealer Meeting, which took place at the Rosen Center Hotel and Resort in Orlando (Florida) on January 20-21, 2016. During the meeting, McCormick took the opportunity to up-date the dealer network on the state of the com-pany, as well as introduce all new programs and initiatives. Dealers heard from McCormick repre-sentitave from the Sales, Service, and Spare Parts departments.
As well as presenting company business, the 2016 Dealer Meeting was the perfect occasion for launching the new X7 VT-Drive Series tractors with CVT transmission, in the special, limited edi-tion black version.
This tractor, of which only 50 have been pro-duced, made a strong impression on the North American dealers. This level of performance and technology had not be present in the McCormick tractor line-up before, and dealers were eager to get them into the market.
It wasn’t all business during the meeting. Each evening, the dealers and McCormick staff had the opportunity to gather for meals and entertainment, and intermingle with stories and laughter. Select dealers were recognized for their outstanding achievements during the prior year, but all attend-ees were given a heart-felt thanks for their partner-ship and business. It is during these casual, un-rehearsed times where the bond between a dealer and manufacturer can become stronger.
X7 Limited Edition at the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky
2016 National Dealer Meeting in Orlando, Florida
Sales Training
NORTH AMERICA
McCormick North America has its headquarters in Duluth, Georgia, along with two satellite offices in Bradford, Ontario (Canada) and in Las Colinas, Mexico.
The market in this area is extremely diverse: requests for McCormick tractors include all the ranges, from 25 to 300 HP.
McCormick North America. Main offices and headquarters.
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McCMagazine
Salon de l’Herbe. Tractors at the trials with hay-making
implements.
Irapuato. D-MAX in the cab version.
As it does every year, McCormick also took part in the 2015 Expo Agroalimentaria,
the most important agricultural machinery fair in Mexico, which was held in Irapuato (Guanajato) from November 24 to 27.
The event represented a good opportunity to introduce the D-Max Series with the new cab and MB85, a tractor that has been the McCormick flagship range in the medium-power bracket for non-European countries, as well as an all-time fa-vourite in Mexico for many years.
Besides being on show in the exhibition area, McCormick was also active outdoors where several demos had been organized.
Expo Agroalimentaria 2015
MEXICO
In collaboration with McCormick’s French dealers, Argo France organized Demo Tour
CVT “New Expérience Tour VT-Drive” during the months of July, August, September and Oc-tober 2015. A tour in which the new McCormick VT-Drive ranges with ZF TMT continuously vari-able transmission (4- and 6-cylinder 146 to 195 HP engines) were presented all over France.
In the 11 stages held throughout the country, over 3000 farmers were able to discover and try out the new X7.4 and X7.6 VT-Drive trac-tor ranges at work in the fields and appreciate their magnificent performance: smooth accelera-tion, optimum PTO speed, incredible ease of use, improved safety during transport work, no loss of draft during use in the fields plus exceptional comfort.
The appointments were also backed by Argo France’s participation in certain trade fairs.
One stage of the tour was organized directly by the branch at Innov’agri, a fair held on Sep-tember 9 and 10, 2015 in the South-West of France at Ondes, near Toulouse, in the depart-ment of Upper Garonne, where various practical field demos were conducted.
Sommet de l’Élevage, the livestock fair held on October 7-9, 2015 at Clermont-Ferrand was another unbreakable engagement for Mc-Cormick, as was Salon de l’Herbe, which took place at the beginning of last June in Villefranche d’Allier. The demonstration provided by the Mc-Cormick fleet in the field dedicated to the forage crop sector was a great success with the public, despite the inclement weather.
X7 VT-Drive New Expérience Tour
FRANCE.
BRANCHES
Ets. Goichon. A stage of the Tour.
29
Owned by the Andrew family, Cliffe House of Dungworth (Sheffield), a
dairy farm known for the eye-catching “Our Cow Molly” branding of its milk processing business, won the “future food” category in the BBC Food & Farming Awards.
The 216-acre family-run farm’s dairy processing business has increased the proportion of milk sold locally - both in liquid form and as ice-cream - by promoting the benefits of “superfresh” milk, which is delivered to shops and cafes in Sheffield within hours of the cows having being milked.
It was the partnership forged between Our Cow Molly and Sheffield University that particularly caught the judges’ eye: the farm supplies “super-fresh” milk to all the University’s cafes, with orders placed on smartphones and computers processed
and delivered the same day. Investment in a new facility completed last year has provided the pro-cessing and bottling capacity to meet the increased demand.
The family has continued to invest in the farm operations. Last spring, Mick Rimmer, of Mc-Cormick concessionaire Barlow’s in Henbury, consigned one of the first tractors from the new McCormick X6 range to the Andrew family.
The X6.420 they purchased is used for spreading slurry and fertilizer, harrowing the grass pastures and soil working, as well as for towing a trailer and harvesting forage crops.
“It’s not over-complicated but has enough fea-tures to do the job”, said Mr Andrew. “And it’s easy to understand and use the different controls and features”.
Sheffield. Graham (left) and Eddie Andrew
(right) with the striking “Our Cow Molly” logo.
“Superfresh” milk producer wins award
UNITED KINGDOM
A McCormick X50.30m tractor was specially outfitted for forestry use by Fabijan, Mc-
Cormick importer for Slovenia, and was exhibited at the Komenda agricultural machinery fair held last February 27 and 28. More specifically, the tractor was equipped with special protection systems to make the vehicle even safer and to protect it from damage caused during forestry operations.
Machines for this type of use are in great de-mand in Slovenia and Fabijan has specialized in that, and other sectors, including vine cultivation, fruit farming, animal husbandry and municipal ground care. McCormick importer for the past 5 years, Fabi-jan has its headquarters in Maribor and recently set up another 4 new premises in other localities so as to serve customers in the different agricultural areas of Slovenia in the best possible way. Thus not only does Fabijan focus on product quality, but it also in-tends to provide a thoroughly professional customer service thanks to its presence on-site.
Fabijan: the X50.30 forestry version
SLOVENIA
McCormick appointed P.T. Rutan as its new importer for Indonesia last June. With its
headquarters in Surabaya, the importer runs an extremely modern organization and deals with ma-chinery for the entire production chain, from soil-working to post-harvest operations.
Although it was appointed less than one year ago, P.T. Rutan has been doing an excellent job in Indonesia especially as regards the B-Max and C-Max Series tractors, much appreciated for rice and grain crop cultivation and in the palm oil and rubber plantations, while the G-Max series is widely used in sugar cane cultivations.
P.T. Rutan has focused on the quality of the prod-ucts Made in Italy by Argo Tractors (the only brand available in Indonesia that comes from its true coun-try of origin) it markets as well as on the quality of the services it provides, where customer satisfaction is achieved with competence and professionalism.
P.T. Rutan is the new McCormick importer
INDONESIA
Fabijan. The
McCormick
X50.30m
outfitted
for forestry
use.
P.T. Rutan. The staff of the importer in Indonesia and,
fourth from the left, Alessandro Gimona of Argo Tractors.
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McCMagazine
Opticom, McCormick’s importer in Bulgaria, celebrates 25 years in the business this year
and marked the occasion by organizing important initiatives. One of these was the inauguration, in May 2016, of a new headquarters in Montana, where over 250 guests were invited. The ceremonial ribbon that launched the new center was cut by Emma Hopkins OBE, British Ambassador in Bulgaria, together with Zlatko Zhivkov, the mayor of Montana, Giancarlo Montanari, Export Sales Manager of Argo Tractors and Veselin Genev, General Manager of Opticom.
The important goal was also celebrated by a new logo specially created for the occasion and that also adorned the X7 VT-Drive tractor with striking yellow paintwork presented with great emphasis and profes-sionalism at the Bata Agro trade fair of Stara Zagora from March 8-12, 2016.
Along with initiatives directed towards expanding the business, Opticom also takes part in numerous events such as trade fairs, open house venues and field demos. One of these was Agroparade, a field event organized by the importer in July 2015 where demos and trials with McCormick tractors took place.
Argo Tractors recently appointed two new importers for the McCormick brand in Ro-
mania. These were Vest-Trac for west Romania and Apan for the remaining agricultural area of the country.
In order to perform the assignment in the best possible way, Apan, which has its headquarters in Braila, opened another 5 branches throughout the territory for widespread coverage of all the areas.
Apan officially announced its partnership with McCormick during Agriplanta, Romania’s most im-portant agricultural trade fair held in Fundulea from May 19-22, 2016. It was here that the importer pre-sented the extensive McCormick ranges, from the GM Series to the X7 Series.
Romania is an excellent market for medium-high power McCormick tractors, and farmers are keenly interested in the C-Max and G-Max Series at the present time.
For several years now, Petros Petropoulos A.E.B.E. has been importer for the McCormick
brand in Greece and continues to achieve excellent re-sults in the Greek market despite the difficult economic conditions in the country. With its headquarters in Ath-ens, the importer performs an optimum service thanks to a widespread network of dealers who, besides main-land Greece, also do a good job of covering the main islands. This year, Petropoulos took part as usual in the biennial Agrotica trade show held in Thessaloniki from
January from 28 to 31, 2016, and presented the en-tire McCormick range, from specialist tractors (which account for almost two-thirds of the market) to the medium- and high-power ranges for open-field work. Over the years, the importer has been very successful in increasing the visibility of the McCormick brand while maintaining a very high level of customer satisfaction and expanding its share of the market.
WORLDWIDE
Opticom celebrates 25 years in the business
Apan: official presentation at Agriplanta
Petros Petropoulos from strength to strength
ROMANIA BULGARIA
GREECE
Apan. The
headquarters
in Braila.
Agriplanta. One of the
McCormick
tractors on
show.
Petropoulos. The Agrotica
trade fair.
Opticom. The Bata Agro
trade fair and
Agroparade
event.
31
PARTS
accumulator suspension system (optional for all models) absorbs the stress created by transport-ing heavy loads over rough ground, thereby guar-anteeing operator comfort and improved working efficiency while minimizing load losses.
All McCormick loaders integrate designs and technologies that set them apart in the industry. The loader frame can quickly detatch from the tractor without requiring tools. Built-in parking stands and quick connect hydraulic couplers en-sure a fast and easy mounting process.
McCormick offes a wide variety of loader tools that further improve the versatility of the loader (buckets, pallet forks, grapples, bale spears and more...). Universal quick attachment makes tool changes a cinch. ■
Used to an increasingly greater extent for many farming chores, front load-ers have become an important part of
the McCormick range, where they can now be “factory-fitted” on all ag models. They can also be ordered loose from McCormick and installed at the dealership for customers.
The complete range of loaders is developed and produced by Alo, a world-reknowned leader and innovator in the manufacture of hydrau-lic front loaders. McCormick offers 3 different types of loaders to properly match the tractor: L Series agricultural loaders for X5 Series and larger tractors, X Series utility loaders for X4 Series tractors and C Series compact loaders for X1 Series tractors.
When the L, X and C Series front loaders were engineered, McCormick paid particular at-tention to strength, safety and comfort: hollow rectangular-section high-tensile steel for the arm structures guarantees improved resistance to torsional and bending stress. In addition, the
Front loaders for the entire
McCormick range
Front loaders. A few details and some of the accessories available.
L Series.The McCormick
agricultural
loader.
32
SHOP
Gadget-enthusiast customers and collec-tors always look forward to the catalogue of McCormick promotional articles. So
it’s to these that McCormick has dedicated the X7 VT-Drive collectors’ model produced in a limited edition of just 1000 pieces in the special yellow ver-sion with white/blue bands, just like the protago-nist tractors of the 2015 VT-Ride Show: a look
that highlights the important breakthrough achieved by the VT-Drive technology ap-plied to the X7 Range.
This and other novelties are to be found in the new catalogue, including the ultra-new McCormick Crono Tech water resist-ant 5 atm, with leather wristband and fin-ishes of the very highest level. ■
McCormick Lifestyle
McCormick chronograph watch. The new McCormick Crono
Tech has a polished case in brushed satin-finish steel with
screw-down steel case back (Water resistant 5 atm.).
Black pvd finish for the sloping crown with laser-etched tachometer
scale. Scratchproof sapphire coated mineral crystal glass.
McCormick Lifestyle. All McCormick-brand articles
can be purchased from our dealers or from the
dedicated website: www.mccormickshop.com
X7 VT-Drive Limited Edition. The scale
model in the special
yellow colour.
33
