New Tractor Features 12-Valve Cummins and No Electronics, Emphasizing Simplicity

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      Anyone shopping for a new tractor knows they come at a steep price—very steep. Not only is there a significant initial investment, but maintaining them can be quite complicated, especially as manufacturers incorporate proprietary software that has led to at least one major legal dispute recently. A Canadian firm named Ursa Ag aims to resolve this issue with its new line of 12-valve Cummins-powered tractors that any mechanic can service.

      Additionally, these tractors are priced at about half the cost of their rivals.

      These straightforward machines are manufactured in Alberta. Ursa offers 150-horsepower and 180-hp models equipped with 5.9-liter Cummins engines, while the larger 260-hp version features an 8.3-liter Cummins engine, similar to those used in combines from the 1990s. All models are also P-pumped, a terminology indicating “mechanical fuel injection excellence.”

      When I inquired with Ursa Ag owner Doug Wilson about the engines, he shared that they are remanufactured units. Wilson mentioned that customers have had no complaints about this, and I trust him—most people I know would prefer a remanufactured 12-valve over a new engine loaded with electronics.

      While Ursa Ag manufactures as many components as possible in-house, some parts are sourced from external suppliers. For instance, the cab comes from a third-party supplier; however, it is designed to be as straightforward as the engine underneath the hood, featuring little more than an air ride seat. All controls are mechanically linked, eliminating concern over complex circuit boards.

      Wilson’s vision for Ursa Ag is to provide equipment that is affordable and can be serviced by independent shops. Given that the 12-valve Cummins has powered a vast array of machinery, from agricultural equipment to pickup trucks over the years, nearly everyone with mechanical skills is familiar with them. Parts are also readily available, meaning downtime is not a major issue.

      URSA AG – MADE IN ALBERTA

      Ursa Ag operates a small network of dealers within Canada, though customers can also purchase directly from the manufacturer. Wilson mentioned that the company hasn’t established a large chain of stores because it would struggle to maintain inventory. However, he noted that the intention is to produce more tractors in 2026 than the total produced in the company's entire history to date.

      Current online pricing indicates that the Ursa Ag 150 is available for $129,900 CAD ($95,156.30 USD), while the 180-hp model is priced at $149,900 CAD ($109,807 USD). Upgrading to the 260-hp tractor will set you back $199,900 CAD ($146,433.75 USD). Wilson claims this is about half the cost of comparable Zetor tractors and significantly less than a John Deere.

      It wasn't immediately clear if these tractors are available in the United States, so I asked Wilson. He replied, “The easiest answer is yes, we can ship to the United States.” Currently, Ursa Ag does not have any distributors based in the U.S., though Wilson suggested this could change soon. After a recent interview with Farms.com, he received numerous inquiries, with approximately 400 coming from the U.S.

      I’m eager to see how this develops for farmers who have typically opted for used tractors over purchasing complex new models. This appears to be an optimal solution, and unless you run a large operation, choosing an Ursa Ag tractor likely offers better financial value than a big-name alternative. Here’s hoping they can meet the demand.

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