New Claas Xerion Tops 500hp
2009-11-11

CLAAS has unveiled two new XERION models at the Agritechnica Show, the largest of which boasts a power output in excess of 500hp.

The two new models, the XERION 4500 and the XERION 5000, offer maximum power outputs of 483hp and 524hp respectively and like the smaller XERION 3300 and XERION 3800, these two new models offer a unique degree of flexibility and performance, making them suitable for a wide range of contracting or farming operations.

As high horsepower arable tractors, these two new models offer a number of distinct benefits over similar powered articulated or tracked tractors.

The XERION will be the first tractor in this power segment to feature a CVT transmission, which will offer users far greater flexibility than the Full Powershift transmissions normally found on tractors this size.

The XERION is also the first tractor this size to have a maximum travel speed of 50kph, and for road and field work the four-equal sized wheel design will provide a far greater level of operator comfort and handling than has been seen before in tractors in this horsepower class. Four wheel steering also allows for compact headland turns without scuffing and provides excellent and safe handling on the road.

As with the existing XERION, the new design also allows for a number of weighting options, anything from 13,400kg to 24,000kg, providing the ultimate flexibility depending on individual requirement.

In addition, working in combination with the CVT transmission, the engine management system is designed so that the XERION can be operated at lower engine speeds, so saving fuel.

Optimum ground contact
The new XERION 4500 and XERION 5000 feature a completely new design, based around the same TRAC concept as the two smaller versions.

Central to the XERION design is a full frame chassis, from which the major components are suspended. This allows the XERION to absorb far greater weights than a conventional tractor. Where additional weight is required to better balance the tractor, and so improve traction, there is the option to add weights to the front or back, or to the wheels as required.

The four equal sized wheels provide maximum contact area to enable exceptional levels of grip, minimal wheel slip and reduced compaction. The XERIONs can be fitted with tyres ranging in size from 2050mm (800/70 R38) up to 2160mm diameter (710/75 R42), but still retain an overall width below 3.0 metres. There is also the option of a larger 900/60 R42 tyre, which results in an overall vehicle width of 3.30 metres.

Drive to the two steered axles is through a well proven, heavy duty, ZF Eccom 4.5 constantly variable transmission (CVT) with a maximum travel speed of 50kph, which reduces travel time in order to ensure maximum productivity in the field.

24-volt electrics

A particular feature of these two new models is the electrical system, in that they are equipped with both 12-volt and a 24-volt electrical systems. The power for the two systems is generated by separate alternators and the tractors are fitted with one battery for the 12v system and two for the 24v circuit, and both an ISO standard socket or a separate socket are available.

The benefit of having a 24-volt system fitted to the XERION is that aside from being used to start the engine and power the work lights, this will enable equipment manufacturers to utilise electric motors in place of complex hydraulic systems. This will reduce the number of hydraulic connections needed and so make implement connection to the tractor far simpler, plus it will allow for far greater simplicity and accuracy of operation.

For powered implements, there is the option to specify the new XERIONs with a 1000rpm PTO, which is driven at an engine speed of just 1730rpm, which is far lower than on other comparable sized tractors. This not only helps to lower fuel consumption but has the added benefit of reducing noise levels.

Three-fingered Multifunction control

In the cab, all the main operating functions are controlled using a new Multifunction control lever. This is designed so that all the main functions are operated using just three fingers, and also incorporates a hand rest.

The thumb is used to control functions such as the hydraulics, changes in direction, CSM headland management and GPS steering. The index finger is used for cruise control and two programmable buttons, whilst the middle finger panel incorporates a freely programmable rocker switch for functions such as engine speed or hydraulics.

In addition, the whole lever can be moved forwards/backwards and sideways to change speed and wheel angle, for instance when crab steering.

As on current XERION models, there is the option of six possible steering programmes, including crab steering, and a number of programmable driving modes, including cruise control to maintain a constant forward speed with optimum fuel efficiency.

As currently, each of the two new XERIONs will be available with the option of either a central fixed position cab or the unique rotating cab, which makes the XERION ideal for use with specialist applications, such as forestry equipment.

Depending on requirements, the specification for both the XERION 4500 and XERION 5000 includes the option of both a front and rear linkage linkage.

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