Having recently topped out the Puma range with the more powerful 260 CVXDrive model sporting 280hp for draft work and up to 302hp for pto and transport tasks, Case IH has turned its attention to the bigger and heavier Optum line-up.

Here, there is also a new range-topping machine on its way – the Optum 340 CVXDrive with up to 340hp at the driver’s disposal for all applications.

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The new model, which will appear for the first time in Europe at the Cereals event on 13-14 June, has a beefed-up version of CNH’s four-stage CVT transmission to handle the increased power and torque.

Other details have yet to be released, but the current Optum 250 (273hp max), which seems likely to be dropped given the Puma 260’s output, the 270 (288hp) and 300 (313hp) have a choice of 165- and 220-litre load-sensing variable-output hydraulic systems and 5.8t and 11t front/rear implement linkage capacities.

Their 11.5t baseline weight can be increased to a maximum of 16.8t with implements and ballast.

Two years ago, the Optum tractors gained a more spacious and quieter cab along with AFS Connect electronics and digital connectivity features.