Rising rates of theft of telescopic handlers have prompted Claas to start fitting immobilisers as standard to its Scorpion handlers from the smallest 6030VP up to the top-of-the-range 9040VP+.

It is believed to be one of the first companies to do so.

The immobiliser system works in much the same way as a car immobiliser, isolating electrical circuits, typically those of the starter and fuel pump.

Each Scorpion will now have its own unique key, into which is embedded a chip that automatically deactivates the immobiliser two seconds after the key is inserted in the ignition. On turning the machine off and removing the key, the immobiliser will be automatically activated 30 seconds later.

Claas has also made some minor changes in the cab to simplify operation. All the main controls are now colour coded and all the switchgear has been updated. Colour-coding the controls, says the company, is particularly beneficial where infrequent users are operating the machine.