Claas adds new versatile drive system to its Scorpion handlers

The compact drive unit, essentially from the Jaguar forage harvester, promises a long service life, improved drive efficiency and reduced noise levels.

The system comprises two hydrostatic motors inside a compact housing which share a common shaft and swash plate. Both motors have a maximum swivel range of 23°, with both traction units controlled by a common distribution unit.

As before, the operator can select three driving ranges – 0 to 15 km/h, 0 to 30 km/h and 0 to 40 km/h – with the simple press of a thumb. The top speed is reached at a reduced, fuel-saving engine speed.

Varipower 2 transfers just as high torque to the wheels as the previous drive, but a new feature is that the housing oil is continuously extracted from the drive housing by a powerful Venturi tube, which significantly reduces churning losses when driving at speed. This ensures maximum efficiency and low fuel consumption even on fast road journeys.

The Scorpion 960, 756 and 746 will continue to work with the original Varipower (for the 746) and the high-performance Varipower Plus drive on the 756 and 960, with wide-angle hydrostatic pump and second displacement motor.

New options for the Scorpions include the latest generation Claas cameras, which can be mounted at the rear and on the telescopic arm or hitch frame. They are housed inside a new holder for better protection.

Images are transferred to a separate display in the cab, which switches automatically to the rear camera when reversing. Integrated heating inside the camera housing prevents the lens from misting up or freezing when the weather is cold or wet.

A new four-digit counter is also available within easy reach of the joystick for manually counting load cycles. Other new features include an LED flashing beacon, self-cancelling indicators and additional tyre options and the rear of the vehicle can now be accessed without tools.