SAME Società Accomandita Motori Endotermici: Revolutionizing Italian Agriculture

Società Accomandita Motori Endotermici, better known as S.A.M.E., stands as a testament to innovation and excellence in the world of agricultural machinery. Founded in 1942 in Treviglio, Italy, by the visionary Cassani brothers, Francesco and Eugenio, this Italian manufacturer has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern agricultural landscape. Specializing in tractors and front loaders, S.A.M.E. has consistently pushed boundaries to provide cutting-edge solutions for farmers worldwide.

The Pioneering Spirit

S.A.M.E.’s journey began in 1927 when the Cassani brothers embarked on an ambitious project. They designed and built the groundbreaking Cassani 40CV agricultural tractor. This trailblazing machine ran on a diesel engine, a relatively novel power source at the time, and marked the nascent stages of S.A.M.E.’s venture into the realm of agricultural machinery.

In 1942, S.A.M.E. formally came into existence, initially focused on producing petrol and diesel engines for various applications, such as winches, cranes, ploughs, and fire-fighting pumps. However, the company soon diversified its portfolio, revealing its first motor mower models, powered by an 8 HP petrol engine, in 1946.

Meeting Post-WWII Agricultural Needs

At the Milan Trade Fair in 1946, S.A.M.E. introduced its first 3-wheeled petrol-powered motor mower, a versatile machine that could also be attached to other agricultural machinery. This innovation represented the company’s first foray into creating a “universal tractor” capable of catering to the needs of post-World War II agriculture.

In 1948, S.A.M.E. unveiled the SAME 3R/10, a universal small tractor propelled by a single-cylinder 10 HP petrol engine. This remarkable tractor featured two driving wheels, a single steering wheel, variable track, and reversible drive. It was awarded the gold medal by the Turin Agricultural Academy, earning praise as “a gem of Italian industry” from the “Giornale dell’Agricoltura” in October 1948.

Advancements in the 1950s

The 1950s saw significant strides in S.A.M.E.’s tractor production:

• 1952: The company launched the DA 25, a pioneering tractor equipped with all-wheel drive, a 25 HP two-cylinder diesel engine, 7-speed transmission, and a top speed of 24.3 km/h. The “DA” in its name denoted “Diesel Aria,” indicating its air-cooled engine, in line with S.A.M.E.’s innovative traditions.
• 1957: The new DA 30 DT was introduced in eight variants, marking the replacement for the DA 25. During this period, S.A.M.E. expanded its repertoire to include specific implements such as ploughs, cultivators, harrows, and more.
• 1958: S.A.M.E. introduced the SAME 240, aptly dubbed the ‘intelligent tractor.’ It featured the groundbreaking S.A.C. (Stazione Automatica di Controllo) lower hitch arm draft control system developed by S.A.M.E., setting new standards in tractor technology. This tractor boasted a 42 HP two-cylinder engine and top speeds of 28.9 km/h.

The Dynamic 1960s and 1970s

The 1960s marked the launch of models like the SAME Puledro and Samecar, highlighting S.A.M.E.’s commitment to versatile tractor designs. This period also witnessed the development of new 6 and 8-cylinder engines.

In 1965, S.A.M.E. unveiled the Centauro range, powered by a 3500 cm3 V4 engine producing 55 HP. These tractors featured 8 forward speeds, 4 reverse speeds, and a top speed of 34.8 km/h.

In 1973, S.A.M.E. made a significant acquisition, purchasing Lamborghini Trattori S.p.A. from Ferruccio Lamborghini, thus expanding its product range.

By 1979, S.A.M.E. had also acquired the Swiss brand Hürlimann Traktoren, leading to the formation of Gruppo SLH (SAME+Lamborghini+Hürlimann), becoming the second-largest tractor producer in Italy and a global industry leader.

The Innovative 1980s

The 1980s ushered in a new era for S.A.M.E., marked by innovation and technological advancement. The company introduced the Explorer family, renowned for its high-speed capabilities and pioneering four-wheel braking system. Moreover, S.A.M.E. embraced cutting-edge technologies such as the Twin Vision video camera rear-view system and electronically controlled fuel injection.

The Formation of SAME Deutz-Fahr

In 1995, Gruppo SLH acquired the agricultural machinery division of Klöckner-Humboldt-Deutz, leading to the creation of the SAME Deutz-Fahr group, solidifying S.A.M.E.’s position as an industry powerhouse.

Into the 21st Century

In 1999, S.A.M.E. introduced the Galileo self-levelling system in the Rubin 200 tractor range, designed to facilitate work on gradients. This innovative system received the prestigious Golden Tractor for Design Millennium Edition award in 2000.

In 2007, S.A.S.E. celebrated the 80th anniversary of its first tractor, the Cassani 40CV, a testament to its enduring legacy.

To commemorate its 70th birthday in 2012, S.A.M.E. announced a wave of new investments and models for the future, including the “Virtus” tractor family, designed in collaboration with Italdesign Giugiaro.

The S.A.M.E. Legacy

Today, S.A.M.E. continues to thrive and innovate. The company offers a diverse range of tractor models to meet the evolving needs of agriculture. Notable models in production include the Solaris, Tiger, Dorado Classic, Frutteto3 Classic, Krypton3 F, Krypton3 V, Krypton3 SIX, Explorer, Virtus J, Virtus, Fortis, and Audax, each tailored for various agricultural applications.

S.A.M.E.’s commitment to excellence and innovation has earned it a distinguished place in the agricultural machinery industry. Renowned model manufacturers worldwide produce scale models of S.A.M.E. tractors, further cementing the company’s iconic status.

The story of S.A.M.E. exemplifies a relentless pursuit of innovation, a dedication to quality, and a profound impact on the world of agriculture. As S.A.M.E. continues to evolve and shape the future of farming, its legacy remains firmly rooted in its pioneering spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence.