CLAAS rolls out new ARION 400 tractors
Completely redesigned mid-range workhorses with power ranging from 90 to 140hp expected to touch down in Australia in SeptemberGerman ag-machinery manufacturer CLAAS has announced the arrival of its next gen ARION 400 series tractors Down Under, which the company says have been "redesigned from the wheels up".
CLAAS says the new range, which carries six models, offers features normally only found in larger horsepower tractors such as optional front suspension, front linkages, automatic differential locking, automatic four-wheel drive, headland management systems and dynamic steering.
"Over the past few years, CLAAS has concentrated on modernising its offering in the medium and large horsepower tractors," says CLAAS Tractors Group Product Manager, Dave Knowles.
"Now, CLAAS is proving it is an innovative force in the lower horsepower segment by completely redesigning the ARION 400 series.
"With six engine ratings, four cab structures and a range of specifications, ARION 400 can meet every need in the highly competitive 100 to 150hp segment."
A key design feature of the new CLAAS ARION 400 models is the PANORAMIC cab, which features a continuous windscreen-roof panel.
"The 2.4 cubic metre one-piece windscreen gives the driver a completely new sense of space," Knowles says.
"There is no crossbeam between the windscreen and the polycarbonate roof panel, giving the driver an unrestricted field of vision."
The PANORAMIC cab design has won several international accolades, including a SIMA Gold Innovation Award and an iF Design Award.
Alternatively, cabins can be specified with conventional or opening windscreens, glass skylights or a five-pillar cab.
CLAAS adds the design of the ARION 400 series borrows heavily from its larger brothers – the ARION 600/500 and AXION 900/800, featuring a balanced weight distribution, a long wheel base of 2.5m, and short length (4.4m).
"Like its larger counterparts, its narrow body allows a high steering lock angle to achieve a compact 4.4 to 4.9m turning circle," Knowles says.
"The engine sump is integrated into the frame, saving space and making maintenance easier."
The new CLAAS ARION 400 is powered by a fuel-efficient 4.5-litre four cylinder FPT engine with modern common rail injection, a turbocharger and charge air cooling.
The engine is fully compliant with Stage IV (Tier 4) engine emissions standards.
Customers can specify either a HEXASHIFT (24/24) or QUADRISHIFT (16/16) powershift transmissions with the CLAAS ARION 400 .
"The HEXASHIFT transmission has four automated ranges and six power-shift stages. All 24 gears can be conveniently changed using the multifunctional lever, without having to use the clutch pedal," Knowles says.
"It can be used on the road at a lower engine rpm, reducing noise and fuel consumption. The driver also has the option to use the fully automatic HEXACTIV powershift mode."
Three hydraulic circuits are available - a 60l/min open circuit, a dual pump 100l/min open circuit and a 110l/min load-sensing hydraulic circuit.
The CLAAS ARION 400 can be specified with the CLAAS SEQUENCE MANAGEMENT headland management system, which enables key tractor functions, such as engine and PTO rpm, power lift and electronic controls, to be saved as operating sequences.
Other options include the newly-developed dynamic steering system, which reduces the number of steering wheel rotations required to lock the steering.
"The number of steering wheel rotations from lock to lock can be reduced from 4.5 to three or even one rotation at the touch of a button," Knowles says.
"This makes steering-intensive work, such as when using a front-loader or negotiating headlands, significantly easier."
All models feature an ergonomically-designed, multifunction lever that controls the front-end loader, rear linkage and optional electro-hydraulic or hydraulic controls.
"You use your left hand to steer and your right arm to operate all the tractor’s key functions. You can switch through all the gears, change direction of travel and use the front-end loader and spool valve functions using your thumb," Knowles explains.
Find out more about the new CLAAS ARION 400 range at claasharvestcentre.com
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