SAME-DEUTZ-FAHR showed its new lineup of Agrotron TTV tractors with infinitely variable transmissions (IVTs) under the hood. Three models — the 610,620 and 630 — fall in the 200 hp range, and the 630 will be available in 2010. Marco Polastri says the company has a significant commitment to North America, selling 600-700 tractors a year in the region each year. The German manufacturer wants to continue its strong presence in North America, especially in the eastern and western U.S. and in Texas. Polastri says the company is strong in the orchard and vineyard business and the trend toward bigger farms also suits them. “Our company is still focused on growth rates that are manageable,” he says.

LAFORGE exhibited its Fleximass front-mounted, rear-mounted and 2-stageballasting systems for tractors, which allows for easy adding or removing of weight, says Lars Paulsson.

Removing weight during light work or transport avoids unnecessary soil compaction. Fuel savings, compared to wheel weights during speed change alone is 8-9%, he says.

ALO displayed its QCC compact loader, which will go into production soon at the Tennessee plant Alo acquired earlier this year from Bush Hog. Finn Brannvall toldFarm Equipment that Alo plans to build a utility loader for OEMs at the Tennessee plant in the future. That could lead to some additional hiring at the Tennessee plant, but additional details weren’t available. Brannvall says the U.S. and Canada are two of the company’s biggest loader markets and building a presence here is critical to the company’s success.