Case IH is to be the exclusive tractor supplier and one of the main sponsors at Potato Europe 2023, one of the world’s largest exhibitions for potato growers.

In addition to supporting an event that is the primary technical show for the crop in Europe, Case IH also plans to use its presence to give new products their first public display on the continent and focus on technology that has the potential to significantly boost productivity in potato production.

The 2023 event will be held from September 6-7 at Kain, near Tournai, western Belgium, where visitors will be able to see static and working displays of some of the latest developments in potato machinery. As a primary sponsor, Case IH will focus its display on tractors and technology especially relevant to potato producers.

“This will include the mainland Europe debut of a new flagship Optum tractor, the Optum 340 CVXDrive with AFS Connect,” says Matthias Claerbout, Case IH Benelux communication manager.

“Potato growers are increasingly seeking more power to perform tasks such as bedforming, planting and harvesting in the most fuel-efficient way possible, which requires not only greater engine output, but also the independent engine and forward speed benefits of continuously variable transmission.

"Equipped as standard with Case IH CVXDrive, the new Optum 340 with AFS Connect extends the compact but high-power concept of the Optum range to new power territory, with 340hp available under all conditions, and a maximum torque of 1,353Nm. We will be demonstrating this model at Potato Europe, as well as the recently-introduced 302hp (max) Puma 260 CVXDrive with AFS Connect.

“In addition, visitors will be able to learn more about the capabilities of Case IH AFS Connect telematics, with live demonstration screens on our stand to illustrate how this technology can help users to enhance the productivity of their operations through monitoring and making adjustments.”

“As a long-standing partner to Potato Europe, we are delighted to be back at the event, and looking forward to showing visitors what the latest technological developments in our tractors and technology can do to help them produce potatoes and other crops more efficiently.”