Mitas is continuing its progress with getting its PneuTrac concept complete. Field tests have begun, which, according to Mitas, show the clear advantages of its larger footprint and better tractive force over standard and IF agricultural tires.
As testing continues, Mitas aims to measure and compare characteristics of Mitas PneuTrac and rubber tracks during 2016 to clearly position PneuTrac among tire and track solutions offered on the market. Mitas’ goal is to have all data needed for a successful market launch available by the end of 2017.
“The footprint and traction force of Mitas PneuTrac and rubber tracks are superior to those of traditional pneumatic tires. The next step is to compare PneuTrac and rubber tracks and see how close they will come,” says Andrew Mabin, Mitas’ sales and marketing director. “We are getting closer to a clearer release date being available. Our goal is to launch PneuTrac in roughly two years.”
Mitas is conducting field tests in the Czech Republic with a John Deere 6150R tractor mounted with 480/65 R28 PneuTrac on the front axle and 600/65 R38 PneuTrac on the rear.
“The results of the first field tests that are under way in the Czech Republic give us a good feel for continuing the successful development of the Mitas PneuTrac concept,” says Mabin.
Slippage and traction force is measured under several modes of driving, and the result is the evaluation of traction force under the slippage that normally occurs during regular farm work (about 15%).
“The field tests have so far demonstrated the clear advantages of PneuTrac over conventional tire designs and confirmed previously released lab test results. The most important PneuTrac benefits are a larger footprint, greater tractive force and also higher lateral stability at a lower inflation pressure when compared with the standard tire,” says Mabin.
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