Gaurav Saxena, CEO of ITL, said at the event that the new models, in combination with US$100 million (about R1,87 billion) investment in expansion at ITL’s headquarters in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, formed part of ITL’s strategy to double international sales in the next three years and become one of the top three global players by the end of the decade.
The new categories include the C series and the SV series. The C-series specifically was designed to address the need for compact, lightweight tractors that excel in narrow operations. The range will be available in 35HP to 48HP models and boast a diesel oxidation catalyst and a diesel particulate filter to efficiently reduce harmful emissions in line with stringent environmental regulations, while maintaining optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.
The SV series is the company’s first electric model. Available in 26HP, it guarantees superior torque availability while remaining environmentally friendly. Its robust 72 volt lithium-ion battery provides extended run time and can be recharged from 0% to 100% in three to three-and-a-half hours with a fast charger, or within seven to eight hours with a normal charger.
The battery life is guaranteed for a decade or 3 500 cycles.
In terms of improvements, the S series, which previously was available in 75HP to 98HP, will now also include a 110HP option. The N series, available in 60HP to 90HP, has a new look and their engines have been upgraded from stage 3 to stage 5, making them more environmentally friendly.
The H series will now also be available with a HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) cabin to keep drivers comfortable during long hours in the fields in winter and summer.
During the launch, Saxena said ITL started out with a single basic tractor model in 1996 that has since been expanded into a comprehensive portfolio consisting of more than 400 models. It has established itself as the number one tractor export brand from India over the past four years, and is the most popular tractor in 15 countries. In the past financial year, the company achieved record sales of over 35 000 units.
Rahul Mittal, executive director of ITL, said the company had found a winning formula by combining European styling and Japanese quality at Indian manufacturing costs: “The special ingredient in this formula is our constant growth mindset, with network partners who dream big, are willing to take up challenges and are ready to reinvent. The formula is shaking up the global tractor industry, allowing us to help farmers across the globe increase their productivity and boost their livelihoods.”
ITL-manufactured tractors are sold under the Sonalika brand in India, Solis in export countries, and as Landini Solis in South Africa.
