CLAAS launches the new XERION series with three models and three engine sizes

All three models in the new family are available in a TRAC version with fixed cab or as a TRAC VC with rotatable cab. The XERION 4000 is also available as a SADDLE TRAC for use with special mounting systems.

Dynamic appearance.
With a distinctive new design, the flagship of the CLAAS tractor range is both striking and pleasing on the eye. It looks slimmer and more dynamic, even though the external dimensions of the new XERION 5000, 4500 and 4000 have hardly changed.

The most important internal innovation is the 6-cylinder engines from Mercedes-Benz. Using SCR technology, they already meet the requirements of the emissions standard Stage IV (Tier 4). The capabilities of these common rail engines are clear. They achieve maximum torque in an extremely low range from 1450 to 1500 rpm. This means that they can be used wherever tractive power requirements are high, e.g. in tillage, but also deliver even better fuel economy.

Continuously variable.
CLAAS also offers two transmission options – the continuously variable ZF Eccom 4.5 and Eccom 5.0 transmissions. Both guarantee efficient conversion of installed engine power but differ in terms of functionality. As in previous models, the ZF Eccom 4.5 provides a range of special functions in the TRAC and TRAC VC models. These include forward and reverse travel with full power transmission and a top speed of 50 or 40 km/h. The PTO clutch is supplied as standard equipment and as an optional extra the 4.5 can be fitted with an auxiliary drive to operate a power hydraulics system on the TRAC VC.

Transmissions made to measure.
By contrast, the cheaper and approximately 500 kg lighter ZF Eccom 5.0 transmission is supplied with or without a PTO clutch. The top reverse speed is also limited to 30 km/h. The 5.0 is therefore perfect for farms which mainly use a XERION TRAC for heavy tillage. CLAAS therefore offers this transmission as an option for all TRAC models. It is supplied as standard in the XERION SADDLE TRAC 4000.

Power and convenience.
The innovations in the XERION include the cross-support rails between the longitudinal frame beams, which are now bolted instead of welded. This increases the load-carrying capacity of the frame when used with heavy slurry tanks and implements. Another new feature is the semi-active cab suspension which is now available as an option. It controls the damper hardness according to the driving situation at the time and improves the suspension comfort many times over. CLAAS engineers have also further optimised the power hydraulics, which are offered as a fuel-saving alternative to PTO operation. The system now draws a maximum of 250 litres of oil per minute.

Just as important are the innovations in EASY, the combined electronics expertise from CLAAS. In addition to the CEBIS control terminal, the CMOTION multifunction control lever, ISOBUS compatibility and TELEMATICS capability, the new XERION tractors are also fully equipped to work with TONI (TELEMATICS ON IMPLEMENT), ICT (Implement Controls Tractor) and job management, the systems of the future for communication between attached machines and the tractor.

Automatic pivoting linkage system for tillage in crab steering mode.
CLAAS has developed a new pivoting linkage for the XERION SADDLE TRAC. With a new design and a second pivot cylinder, the linkage has been adapted to meet the load requirements of modern slurry incorporation systems and has also been equipped with automatic controls and a safety pivot range. This automatic system prevents incorrect operation and damage when working in crab steering mode. Initially, a warning message is displayed on the CEBIS terminal if the driver exceeds the 15° mark of the crab steering pivot range when cornering with the implement lowered. If the driver does not respond and continues to drive further into the turn, the automatic system lifts the rear linkage and locks it in the central position.