The first UK farmer to order a Q Series tractor did so without seeing it or knowing the exact price or specification. Nine months after delivery, he remains delighted with his decision.
The Valtra Q265 was ordered ahead of its official launch by Dorset farmer, Andy Seare. He has relied on a small fleet of two Valtra tractors for his family’s mixed farming enterprise since buying his first T170 in 2004, but particularly wanted the bigger 250hp machine with CVT transmission for cultivations and drilling.
Trading as JW & JR Seare, Andy Seare farms at Mapperton in Dorset. He bought his first new Valtra T170 from CJ Cox Ltd in 2004 and has relied on a fleet of two Valtras for his family’s 360ha mixed arable and beef farm ever since.
“The T Series performs well, but I wanted a 250hp tractor with CVT transmission for cultivating and drilling. Valtra didn’t offer that specification, so we nearly bought another brand instead,” he explained.
“We didn’t want to change from Valtra or our local dealer, so we were delighted to hear that the Q Series was in development.”
“We ordered the Q265 unseen, knowing it would be at least six months before start of production and delivery. It has worked 500 hours so far and we remain impressed. The longer wheelbase is better for draft work, the stepless CVT maintains maximum performance on undulating terrain, and it feels only slightly larger on narrow roads than our T Series.”
Andy says that the CVT transmission allows him to make the most of the power available and main-tain optimum work rates in variable conditions.
The Valtra Q5 Series cab is described by Andy as well-equipped, quiet and comfortable.
Pictured with the first Valtra Q Series tractor retailed in the UK: (l-r) Valtra UK Area Sales Manager for the South-West Gareth Jones, CJ Cox Ltd Service Manager Neil Warr and farmer Andy Seare.
Text and photos David Williams
