News

DULUTH, Ga., Jun 18, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- With the introduction of its new MT900B Series four-wheel-drive tractors, Challenger is once again pushing the limits in production and breaking records. This time, it's for the industry's largest production 4-wheel-drive articulated tractor.

Available in four model sizes from 430 to a record 570 engine horsepower, the Challenger MT900B Series tractors share a number of components with the proven MT800B Series track tractors. These industry leading features include the cab, hydraulics, a rugged Caterpillar ACERT(TM) technology engine; a Cat(R) engineered and tested 16FX4R powershift transmission, and Challenger's exclusive Tractor Management Center.

"When Challenger introduced the MT875B track tractor at 570 horsepower, it set the benchmark for power in an agricultural setting and broke all existing records for drawbar horsepower," says Doug Griffin, Vice President of Marketing for AGCO North America. "Now, we're excited about matching that horsepower level in a versatile 4-wheel-drive model. We have many customers who have asked for just such a machine. I'm proud to say, 'We've delivered.'"

According to Jason Hoult, Product Marketing Manager for Challenger Track and Articulated Tractors, much of the MT900B Series' power and performance can be attributed to Caterpillar(R) ACERT engines, which adhere to Tier III emission standards without sacrificing efficiency, durability or reliability. The MT945B and MT955B use the 928-cubic-inch (15.2 L) Cat(R) C15 engine to achieve 430 (320 kW) and 460 (343 kW) horsepower, respectively. The two largest models boast a massive 1,105-cubic-inch (18.1 L) Cat C18 diesel engine that cranks out 510 horsepower (380 kW) in the MT965B and 570 horsepower (424.7 kW) in the MT975B.

"With 8% engine power growth and peak power of up to 615 HP, the Cat(R) C15 and C18 ACERT(TM) engines deliver exceptional pulling power in all conditions," Hoult says. "In the meantime, eight gears in the popular 4 to 9.3 mph (6.5 to 14.9 kph) operating range ensure responsiveness and productivity to match any application."

"It would be a mistake, though, for someone to believe the MT900B is simply a track tractor on wheels," Hoult insists. "The heavy-duty frame and articulation joint on the MT900B Series were designed and tested to handle even the most rigorous conditions. The 145 mm diameter bar axles, for example, are the largest axles in the industry."

The articulation joint features a robust triple point articulation design for excellent maneuverability and maximum traction. All service points can be accessed without having to articulate the tractor to one side or the other.

In addition, the MT900B is available with a wide variety of tire options in single, dual and triple configurations. All models are also available in both ag and special application versions to handle the needs of large-acreage farmers, as well as industrial and scraper operators.

For more information on Challenger MT900B tractors, including the industry-leading, 570-hp (615 HP Peak) model MT975B, visit www.challengerag.com.

About AGCO

Founded in 1990, AGCO Corporation (NYSE:AG) (www.agcocorp.com) is a global manufacturer of agricultural equipment and related replacement parts. AGCO offers a full product line including tractors, combines, hay tools, sprayers, forage, tillage equipment and implements, which are distributed through more than 3,200 independent dealers and distributors in more than 140 countries worldwide. AGCO products include the following well-known brands: AGCO(R), Challenger(R), Fendt(R), Gleaner(R), Hesston(R), Massey Ferguson(R), New Idea(R), RoGator(R), Spra-Coupe(R), Sunflower(R), Terra-Gator(R), Valtra(R), and White(TM) Planters. AGCO provides retail financing through AGCO Finance. The company is headquartered in Duluth, Georgia, and in 2006, had net sales of $5.4 billion.

SOURCE: AGCO Corporation/Challenger Division

AGCO Corporation
Allison Bass, 770-813-6003
Communications Manager
allison.bass@agcocorp.com