JCB has revealed a completely new Fastrac range with new cab, semi-powershift transmission and self-levelling suspension system.

The three-model 7000-series spans the 170-230hp bracket and sees the British manufacturer move to a much more conventional tractor layout.

With a choice of 38in or 42in rims, the rear wheels are larger than the front and the new cab is now positioned right over the beefed-up back axle.

Although this benefits rearward views, it does mean that this new Fastrac lacks the trademark load-deck that has featured on previous machines.

The cabin uses a four-post frame with wide-swinging one-piece glass doors. It is 150mm (6in) longer than before and hosts a raft of new automotive-grade features such as touch-screen controls, climate-control, an iPod connector and a fridge. (The same cab is also fitted to larger 8250 machines and sits 300mm (12in) further back in the chassis than before.)

Like the cab, the transmission is another in-house JCB production capable of propelling the tractor to speeds of up to 70kph (45mph). A 24F x 12R unit, it has six powershift steps and a 4-speed range box – all changed without the aid of the clutch. Direction changes are also clutchless.

“This is the most significant tractor launch for JCB since we introduced the original Fastrac in 1990,” explains Ian Sayers, director and general manager of JCB Agriculture.

“The 7000 doesn’t replace any model – our 2000-series and 3000-series machines are still available for those that require a load-deck for tools like demount sprayers.”

In fact, he intimates that those machines are likely to eventaully receive many similar upgrades to those introduced with the new 7000-series.