We recently revealed details of Manitou’s new hybrid telehandler/tractor prototype and here it is in the flesh at Agritechnica 2007.

The Manitrac is currently just a concept but its French manufacturer is making encouraging noises that it will almost certainly make it to market in some form.

Using the frame and chassis from its Manihoe loader/digger hybrid, the company was using Agritechnica to test customer reaction to the concept.

Currently it has a hydrostatic transmission and an engine strapped between the right-hand wheels – its cooling package hangs in the same position on the left.

Positioned right over the back-axle, the cab frame is borrowed from the firm’s MLA pivot-steer handlers but will have a completely redesigned interior and controls.

At the rear there’s a Category 2 linkage and oil-driven pto. Up front, the centre-mounted telescopic boom will lift 2.5t to about 5m.

See more of the latest news and pictures from the Agritechnica event