Updated Claas Xerion 12 capable of semi-autonomous driving
Re-designed track assemblies are among Claas Xerion 12 updates © Claas A clutch of powertrain and digital technology upgrades are being released for the biggest tractors in the Claas range, including autonomous working – albeit with an operator in the driving seat to keep a wary eye on things.
In Britain, Claas offers the Xerion 12 series tractors with 585hp or 653hp, and four Terra Trac assemblies on the rigid chassis.
There are no changes in peak power or torque outputs with this upgrade.
See also: First impressions: Claas Xerion 12.650 takes on US-built artics
But a third engine droop profile has been added to the Eco and Power modes to help inexperienced and seasonal operators get the most out of the machine.
With Autodroop engaged, engine speed droop is regulated automatically and adapted according to load in the prevailing conditions, with the aim of striking an optimal balance between maximum power delivery and operational efficiency.
In addition, the vehicle drive controller for the continuously variable, power-split CMatic transmission is said to have further improved responsiveness in operating conditions with highly variable load profiles.
These include when a cultivator or drill is lowered into the ground or there are significant changes in draft load when moving into heavier soil types or compacted areas.
The Terra Trac assemblies have also been given some attention, key items having been reinforced and the cast frame redesigned for greater clearances between components to reduce bunging up in sticky soils.
Here, the objective was to get longer service life, especially from the traction belts and idler rollers, with no longer any need for scrapers.
Operator-monitored fully automatic working is new for the big Xerion © Claas
Refinements in the cab include additional storage locations, non-slip surfaces for using a tablet computer, a new swivelling deluxe seat, and a plastic guard protecting the windscreen when operators like to stretch out and put their muddy boots up on the footrest pegs.
A 6.75in touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a DAB+ radio receiver and Bluetooth is also part of the package.
As, on the outside, are grippy steps over the front mudguards and a reconfigured platform giving easier access for cleaning the windscreen and changing the engine air filter.
Driver optional
Claas is working with digital technology partner AgXeed – manufacturer of AgBot wheeled and tracked driverless tractors – on making its own machines “driver optional”.
The Xerion 12 and Axion 9 are now available with AgXeed’s TraXwise digital platform, which provides a vehicle control unit controlled via isobus tractor implement management.
Pre-created field boundaries and work orders can be imported cloud-to-cloud from the Claas Connect farm management service with just a few mouse clicks, including field and machine data, identified obstacles (such as trees and power pylons), and route planning.
With a single tap in TraXwise running on the in-cab display, the tractor will work to those instructions day and night without operator intervention – unless required – with automatic steering and headland management functions, and site-specific rate control where relevant.
Upon completion, the fully documented job stored in TraXwise is simultaneously displayed in Claas Connect, where it can be used for further analysis, billing and other documentation purposes.
What keeps the operator awake in the meantime is up for discussion but, in theory, it enables them, including less experienced operators, to concentrate fully on monitoring the quality of the work done and maintaining optimal performance of the tractor and implement.
