A new package of updates for the Xerion 12 tractor range, with improvements focused on driver comfort, transmission performance, ease of maintenance and automation has been announced by Claas.
The changes, which roll out through 2026, include updates to the Cmatic transmission, revised Terra Trac crawler units, cab improvements and the arrival of a new driver-monitored autonomy system developed alongside AgXeed.
The company says the latest developments are designed to help operators get more from the tractor while reducing fatigue and simplifying operation for both experienced and seasonal staff.
Transmission and Terra Trac updates
One of the key developments is a new ‘Autodroop’ setting for the continuously variable Cmatic transmission. The new mode sits alongside the existing Eco and Power settings and automatically adjusts engine droop according to operating conditions.
Claas says the system helps maintain the balance between maximum power and fuel efficiency, particularly in situations where tractors may be used by multiple operators across a season.
The manufacturer has also revised the vehicle drive controller for the power-split transmission to improve responsiveness during heavy load changes.
This is expected to be most noticeable during cultivation and drilling work, particularly when implements are engaged at the headland or when working in varying soil conditions.
According to Claas, the transmission now reacts more quickly to sudden load increases and reaches target speeds faster, helping maintain work rates and improve field efficiency.
Senior vice president system tractors at Claas, Dr Johannes Weisbrodt said: “Thanks to the unique Xerion 12 concept with a continuously variable all-wheel-drive system and engine power of up to 653hp, farmers have been able to significantly improve their operational efficiency over the last two years whilst maintaining at least the same level of productivity.
“The simple operation also allows less experienced drivers to get the most out of the machine. With Autodroop and the new Cmatic vehicle drive controller, this peak performance is even easier to achieve.”
Alongside the transmission developments, Claas has also made a series of changes to the Xerion’s 12’s Terra Trac crawler units.
The track system, developed and built by Claas Industrietechnik in Paderborn, has been redesigned with a focus on durability, self-cleaning and lower operating costs.
A newly designed cast frame now provides greater spacing between components to improve dirt clearance and reduce material build-up. Claas says the revised design removes the need for scrapers entirely, although updated scrapers can still be retrofitted to existing machines already in the field.
Further strengthening work has also been carried out on the aluminium spokes and outer rings of the track rollers, as well as the bogie tilting frame and bearing assemblies.
The two-piece roller design remains unchanged, allowing easier servicing and quicker replacement when required.
Claas says the changes are intended to extend service life and reduce maintenance demands in demanding operating conditions.
Read more
-
Claas ups cutting capacity with new 10.7m Disco 1100 direct swather
-
Claas closes 2025 with stable sales, record-breaking harvesters and new tech
-
Claas Axion 9.450 Terra Trac wins Tractor of the Year 2025 award
More comfort in the cab
A number of updates have also been made inside the Xerion 12 cab, with comfort and convenience a major focus.
Claas describes the cab as the largest and quietest in the premium tractor sector within this power bracket, and the latest updates aim to improve day-to-day working conditions further.
Compressed air connections are now fitted as standard inside the cab, while operators can also specify an optional blow gun with a 2m hose for quickly clearing dust and dirt from controls and flooring.
Additional compressed air connections remain fitted externally at the front and rear of the tractor for cleaning purposes.
New storage compartments have also been added around the cab, including larger storage areas within the right-hand B-pillar and behind the driver’s seat.
Claas says tablets can also be safely positioned on new non-slip surfaces within the cab, allowing operators to monitor work orders or machine data more easily.
A new luxury driver’s seat with integrated compressor has also been introduced.
The seat continues to swivel up to 40 degrees to the right and 10 degrees to the left, helping operators maintain a more relaxed seating position during long working days while also improving access in and out of the cab.
Other practical changes include a protective plastic guard between the steering column and windscreen to reduce dirt transfer from work boots onto the glass.
From model year 2026 onwards, the Xerion 12 will also feature a new 6.75-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, alongside DAB+ radio and bluetooth.
Maintenance access has also been simplified with the introduction of an electrically operated bonnet, available since April 2025.
The bonnet can be opened and closed at the touch of a button from ground level, while redesigned platforms and non-slip steps improve access for servicing and windscreen cleaning.
Further additions include new LED rotating beacons mounted on the front of the cab roof for improved road visibility and the ability to control rotating beacons, CB radio and air conditioning functions directly from the Cmotion drive lever.
Driver-monitored autonomy
The biggest step forward technologically comes with the introduction of the new Vehicle Control Unit (VCU), which will be available from mid-2026.
Developed alongside AgXeed, the VCU allows pre-planned work orders to be carried out automatically while the driver remains in the cab supervising the operation.
The system works through the TIM (Tractor Implement Management) protocol and integrates with Claas connect and AgXeed’s TraXwise platform.
Field boundaries, machine settings, obstacles and application maps can all be uploaded in advance through Claas connect before being transferred into TraXwise.
Once loaded, work orders appear on a tablet within the cab and can be started with a single tap.
The tractor and implement are then able to carry out tasks automatically, including steering, turning at the headland and site-specific application control.
Claas says operators remain fully in control and can intervene or override the system whenever required.
“When using the VCU, the driver remains in the cab at all times, but can concentrate fully on monitoring the quality of work and the optimal performance of the tractor and implement,” the company said.
“Furthermore, they can override active work orders at any time.”
The firm believes the technology will help reduce driver workload while improving consistency and preparing farms for greater levels of automation in the future.
Further automation has also been added through the Auto RefLine function within the GPS Pilot Cemis 1200 steering system.
The feature automatically changes A-B reference lines when working irregular fields, wedges and headlands, removing the need for operators to switch guidance lines manually during field work.
Share