When New Holland added a whole pile of fresh tech to its T8 Genesis PLM, we knew it was only a matter of time before these features would filter down to the other models. And it has, with the new generation of T7HD PLM not only benefiting from the latest electronics but a whole host of other in cab upgrades.
Earlier this summer we had the opportunity of an exclusive first drive of New Holland’s latest generation T7 HD tractors. While the 250hp to 300hp line-up might not account for a huge share of the company’s sales across the board, the HD is the first of the firm’s models to get the much anticipated new cab – the Horizon Ultra. So, no apologies then that it’s the cockpit we focus on here, hardware changes to the HD being relatively minor.
This is significant news as it’s nearly two decades since New Holland introduced the original Horizon cabin – its first four-poster. While there have been various updates and facelifts to the interior trim and controls in that time, the basics have remained pretty much the same.
Now however that’s set to change. On first glances you’d be forgiven for thinking the new office space appears pretty similar to what’s gone before. In fact, we’d bet good money that on a dealer forecourt or show stand a good proportion of people would walk past without a second glance.
But don’t be fooled, there’s very little hangover from the 20-year-old design that wowed the crowds with its sleek curves when it first broke cover. Although the overall shape is retained, it’s grown significantly in size. This is a totally different cabin to that fitted to flagship T8s although a good number of the controls are shared including the latest SideWinder armrest, but more on that later.
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