Case IH ActiveDrive 8 transmission arrives

Following the launch of the Maxxum CVT range in July last year, Case IH has announced the arrival of its Maxxum Multicontroller models with ActiveDrive 8 powershift transmission.

ActiveDrive 8 is a three-range, eight-speed powershift transmission from Case IH featuring double clutch technology and some features normally only associated with the top-of-the-line Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), Case IH said.

So while it’s not quite a CVT, it is close and is a step up from the textbook powershift transmission, Case IH claimed.

In fact, it was so innovative and efficient that it has been awarded Tractor of the Year back in 2018.

The transmission comes with and works in conjunction with Case IH’s Multicontroller console in the cab.

Case IH Australia and New Zealand Product Manager for Mid Horsepower and Compact Tractors, Seamus McCarthy, said the benefits of the Maxxum Multicontroller with ActiveDrive 8 transmission had proved a winner with customers overseas and he had no doubt the local market would embrace it for the same reasons.

“At its heart we’re talking about enhanced efficiency and ease of use – this makes the tractor so easy to drive and operate at its optimum level,” McCarthy said.

“With ActiveDrive 8, the transmission automatically selects the right gear, not just the next gear, when the operator requests more or less ground speed.

“This is a new technology that offers customers a step up from the powershift option, and at the same time gives them a taste of our state-of-the-art CVT transmission option.”

The ActiveDrive 8 transmission offers a total of 24 speeds in both forwards and reverse. The double-clutch technology results in less torque interruption, while pedal clutching is not necessary for range changes, making this transmission more suited for power-hungry tasks where momentum is important, Case IH said.

McCarthy added the Maxxum Multicontroller offers the usability, efficiency and direct-drive feel seen in powershift transmissions as well as offering some extras like Brake to Clutch, APM, auto road/field modes and smooth shift which are features usually only found on CVT rigs.

“With these features - and more - this mid-sized tractor makes a perfect fit for livestock producers that expect a little more out of their tractor, row-crop farmers and mixed farming enterprises looking for something that can be utilised for a wide range of their on-farm machinery needs,” McCarthy said.

Another optional feature is the auto-clutch that allows the operator to stop at the press of the brake pedal, and then resume the previous speed once the brake is released.

Case IH said the first of the new Maxxum Multicontroller models with ActiveDrive 8 transmission have arrived in in Australia and are available to order now.