Nokian’s second-generation digital tractor tyre monitoring system has the added feature of measuring tractor axle weights and providing recommended inflation pressures for different scenarios, such as when spraying or spreading.

Available with the Finnish manufacturer’s most sophisticated agricultural tyre, the Soil King VF, Intuitu 2.0 comprises a factory-installed, multifunction sensor fixed to the inside of the tyre carcass that measures pressure, temperature and acceleration.

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It uses a low-power radio to transmit measurement data to the Intuitu digital platform, which in turn makes the data available in an accessible form in a smartphone app.

Pressure and temperature

As with the first-generation system, available with all Nokian’s tractor tyres, the new version measures inflation pressure and tyre temperature.

It also issues alerts should the pressure drop significantly or the tyre overheat.

But Intuitu 2.0 has the added ability to calculate the axle weights of tractors equipped with the tyres and provide pressure recommendations for the application and conditions selected by the operator.

The app can be used to set up and monitor just one tractor or a whole fleet, so managers also get real-time tyre data and warning alerts should something be amiss.

Nokian says the latest system enables owners to get optimum performance from its top-spec tractor tyre, in terms of traction, lowest impact on the soil and fuel economy.

Longest service life

At the same time, it protects their investment by ensuring the tyres deliver the longest service life through correct inflation for road and field use, speed and load, and from being able to react quickly to potentially tyre-damaging issues.

The steel-belted Soil King VF range has recently been extended by a further four sizes – VF 600/65 R28, VF 710/60 R34, VF 710/70 R38 and VF 710/60 R42, the latter now being the largest in the line-up.

That means there are 17 sizes in all for 28in, 30in, 34in, 38in and 42in rims in nominal widths from 540cm to 710cm.

The tyre’s distinctive tread pattern comprises relatively shallow-curved lugs extending generously to the shoulder, with lateral inner extensions providing extra surface area around the centre line of the tyre.