With new Arion and Axion
Claas is finally up to date again
Finally the time has come. Claas presented three new tractor series at its main location in Harsewinkel, Germany. The Arion 500 and 600 and the large Axion 900. Well-known numbers for Claas aficionados, which have hardly changed in appearance. However, they now meet the Stage 4 emission requirement.
It was no longer a surprise that Claas was going to come up with a new tractor. Partly out of necessity, because as the only manufacturer, the Germans from Harsewinkel had not yet presented a Stage 4 model. This is mandatory in Europe from 2018. The brand chose to resell the old models for as long as possible. After all, a new model also means a higher price.
No new styling
Claas did not use the development budget to create a new styling. You can say that what is good must remain good. The few extra cooling fins in the hood have already been integrated. Only the thick exhaust with SCR catalytic converter stands out on a new model Arion or Axion. Claas even chooses to leave the type designation untouched. There are new numbers, which are attached to new models with more power.
New equipment
First of all, the Arions. These are offered in three flavours: CIS, CIS+ and Cebis. All versions are available with a Hexashift powershift gearbox that can be switched under load. It has also been overhauled, with automatic functions. You can also get the CIS+ and Cebis with a Cmatic CVT, where new software controls the gearbox.
The CIS is the basic version with mechanical hydraulic valves. Cis+ is slightly more luxurious, with electronic hydraulic functions via flippers and joystick and a color display. This also includes a joystick for operation and hydraulics. The Cmatic models are equipped with a completely new 12” touch screen Cebis terminal and the Cmotion lever, which originated with the Xerion. Claas claims that you can operate all functions with 3 fingers. 'Direct Access' on the terminal makes frequently used functions quickly available.
New Arion top model
Under the hood of the Arion 500 there is a 4 cylinder DPS engine that starts at 125 hp. The Arion 600 series has a 6 cylinder DPS. Thanks to the addition of the Arion 660 model, this series now extends to 205 hp. This means that Claas can finally offer a tractor in the high power, low weight segment. A very popular class for arable farming, livestock farming and contract work. An electronic power boost delivers 205 horsepower in transport and PTO work. When the tractor is idling, the speed automatically reduces from 800 to 650 rpm to save fuel. With a combination of cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and SCR catalytic converter (Adblue), the tractors meet Stage 4.
Less maintenance
In addition to the engine, gearbox and terminal, Claas also works on maintenance. On the Arion with the new Proactiv front axle suspension. Each half is independently sprung in a triangle. The suspension adapts to the weight. The number of turns of the steering wheel, which you need to turn, can be adjusted at the push of a button. The front axle has not been renewed for better comfort, but to reduce maintenance. Also, drivers can now choose whether they want 4 or 5 cab styles. The hydraulics run via a 110 liter per minute or 150 liter per minute load sensing pump. Models from the Arion 630 are available on 42 inch rims.
445
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445 hp top model
Also the largest series of standard wheel tractors from Claas; the Axion 900, has been modified. All models get extra power, which is obtained from a Stage 4 FPT Cursor 9 block with a capacity of 8,7 liters. It is equipped with a new variable geometry turbo. Even at the lowest revs, 70% of the power is available. They now run from 325 to 445 hp on the Axion 920 to 960. The latter is also new. There is no boost on this model. The torque is 18% higher than its predecessor and the speed on the road is reduced. That should yield 2 liters per hour.
Two versions
A number of features of the Arion can also be found on the Axion 900. For example, it reduces its speed at idle and the software of the ZF CVT has been adapted. An Eco PTO mode should save fuel during PTO work. The Axion 900 is also available in the CIS+ version. You will not get a 12” Cebis screen, but a 7” color screen in the A-pillar, driving lever and cross lever for the hydraulics. The luxury version has the Cmotion driving lever. The most frequently used functions can be found at the touch of a button. Ex-factory you can have the series equipped with GPS and Telematics, the telematics package with which Claas is a pioneer.
Claas presented a new Arion 4 (500 cyl) and Arion 4 (600 cyl) on 6 July. The type designation has remained the same. Behind the shiny exhaust is an SCR catalytic converter. The 205 hp model Arion 660 is new.
Claas changed little in the styling. The Proactiv front axle is new. It is independent on three points.
The Axion 900, the largest range of standard tractors, has also been updated. There, too, a new top model, from which 445 hp is squeezed. In this case an FPT block. The Arions continue to do it with a DPS.
There were quite a few comments about Claas' Cebis screen. That wipes it off the table in one go with a new 12" touch screen. Via a quick-selection menu you have all important functions in one place.
Those who do not want to drive with a TV in their armrest can go for CIS+. This new version has a 7" color screen in the A-pillar. Option is a 5-post cab on the Arion.
Niels van der Boom
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