Versatile Articulated Tractors from Bell Aiding Agriculture in Africa
Both in its most southerly regions and in many of the other countries on the vast continent of Africa, agriculture is an industry that is vital to feed the local populations and, in a few cases, it may also provide a welcome source of hard currency in exchange for selected export crops such as coffee and tobacco. To meet the demands of a burgeoning population, wherever the economy permits, farming has had to become increasingly more dependent upon the use of chemical preparations to prevent disease, to promote growth and to increase yield. In addition, they have had to embrace the new technologies and equipment that are essential to sustain an industry that is now increasingly reliant upon mechanisation.
Today, dependence upon traditional man-powered and horse-drawn implements is being abandoned in favour of the seemingly limitless power provided by the diesel engine and vehicles such as the Bell articulated tractor. These high-powered units differ from their conventional predecessors in that they are equipped with 4-wheel drive that is delivered via wheels of the same size. In addition, their articulated design means that the rear section remains free to move independently of the cab section.
The range currently consists of six models. It begins with the 4,8-litre, entry-level 2304E and ends with the high-end B45D and B50D hauler models. Their power and torque specifications vary from a useful 160 kW (or 214 horsepower) and 810 N.m at the entry level and culminates in 375 kW and 2400 N.m. Regardless of the particular model that may be chosen, all purchasers of the Bell range of articulated tractors can be assured that they have acquired a vehicle that has been rated as the best in its class in terms of its off-road capabilities. Another benefit of these superbly crafted machines, and one that is not generally characteristic of competing products, is their exceptional driver comfort. The smoother-than-average ride, even over rough terrain, can be attributed directly to the semi-independent suspension systems that are a standard feature of all models in the range.
Despite their tough, heavyweight build, these vehicles should definitely be classed as the hares rather than the tortoises of the agricultural stable. With a 6-speed electronic transmission, the 2304E is able to work its way up to an impressive 50 km/h when it engages top gear. Despite its impressive ability as a sprinter, this model still offers its owners the best fuel economy when one compares its performance with that of other vehicles in the same class.
In addition to these excellent Bell articulated tractors, the manufacturers also produce a wide selection of other handling and transportation equipment for use in the mining, construction, forestry and agricultural industries. In South Africa, the brand and its diverse product ranges are ably supported by Kanu Equipment. Based in the Johannesburg’s industrial suburb of Isando we are the region’s leading supplier of equipment for the industries named, handling not just the Bell range but a number of other iconic brands that include Terex Finlay, Deutz, Liebherr, TechKing and Tigercat.
Our customer-centric focus ensures that providing sound advice, ample spares and the support of our clients by a team of expertly trained engineers remain our priorities.
