It’s the only one of its kind in Australia — for one very obvious reason — and it’s been some time coming.
But now it’s here and its new owner believes the wait’s been worth it.
The special delivery Case IH AFS Connect Optum has arrived at Nowra Truck and Tractor, but rather than being the familiar red of the Case IH brand, this one is black — standing it apart from the other Case IH machinery in the Nowra dealership.
It made its public debut at the Berry Small Farm Field Days in September, before taking its place in the fleet of a local contractor who put in his order about 18 months ago.
A special offer from the Case IH brand globally, the customer saw the distinctive black Optum on YouTube and visited Nowra Truck and Tractor to ask how he could get one.
“He started his business in 2011 and has been a Case IH customer since then,” Nowra Truck and Tractor general manager Daniel Arthur said.
“He loves his machinery and knew he wanted this rare black tractor as soon as he saw it.
“With his order for the tractor coinciding with COVID restrictions, it’s taken longer for it to get here, but he was so happy when he finally saw it, so I think it’s been worth the wait.”
The new Optum is the biggest tractor the contractor has had as part of his fleet, taking its place alongside four Case IH Pumas and carrying out a range of tasks for the business, which has a variety of clients requiring everything from fencing and spraying to spreading and cultivation.
The AFS Connect Optum features technology and connectivity previously only available on larger and higher horsepower Case IH machines which, along with a new cab and interior, enhances the tractor’s operation, comfort and efficiency.
Daniel said it wasn’t often they sold a tractor as big as an Optum in their local market, and he and his staff were proud to be associated with such a unique purchase. It’s one of only a handful around the world.
“Selling a black Case IH tractor is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so it’s been an exciting time for us and I know the customer is going to enjoy having it as part of his operating fleet,” he said.
“It’s certainly going to get some attention when it’s working around the district.”