​CLAAS presents the new SCORPION series of telehandlers, developed in cooperation with LIEBHERR

The well proven SCORPION models from CLAAS have been raising the bar in terms of telehandler technology for many years. CLAAS now presents a completely new SCORPION series, which has been developed in cooperation with Liebherr. The new SCORPION models offer greater handling performance, thanks to increased lifting capacity and new advanced driver-assistance systems, improved driver comfort and efficiency, along with improved safety and reliability. These benefits stem from a range of new features, such as DYNAMIC POWER for engine management, the new SMART LOADING driver-assistance system for fine control of the working hydraulics and overload protection, a fully automatic parking brake, controlled crab steering as a fourth steering option and an all-new cab configuration.

Model overview

Better handling performance

All new SCORPION models boast improved working hydraulics and increased lifting capacity of 3.2 to 5.6 t, enabling optimal handling performance and productivity, thanks to quick cycle times. From December 2018, an additional SCORPION model will be available to meet the highest handling performance demands, with a 6.0 t lifting capacity and 9.0 m lifting height. Another major improvement in the new series is the high-performance drive, which guarantees particularly convenient and precise manoeuvring. The proven hydrostatic VARIPOWER or VARIPOWER PLUS transmission has three speeds, which are easy to control using the joystick. Safety and driver comfort are guaranteed, thanks to an electrohydraulic parking brake which is automatically activated if the driver leaves the seat, the machine stops or the engine is switched off. When the driver puts a foot on the accelerator to travel in a set direction, the parking brake is automatically deactivated. As in the previous series, all models come with Deutz diesel engines, which develop up to 156 hp (115 kW) and meet Stage IV (Tier 4) emissions standards.

The new DYNAMIC COOLING concept

The existing airflow system has been further optimised in the new SCORPION series, thanks to the new DYNAMIC COOLING concept. DYNAMIC COOLING automatically controls the fan speed and guarantees demand-driven cooling of the engine, no matter what the operating conditions. Air is drawn in at the front and flows around the engine and before exiting out the back of the machine. The reversing fan system also works fully automatically, based on the settings selected by the operator. When working in particularly dirty conditions, the driver can also reverse the fan manually at any time, at the touch of a button.

More models for every application

CLAAS now has a machine for every application, having extended the product range to include the new SCORPION 741 and 1033 models. The SCORPION 741 is a compact, manoeuvrable all-rounder, boasting an above-average lifting capacity of over 4.0 t. The SCORPION 1033 has been developed for areas where a particularly long reach is needed. For example, with its lifting height of 9.75 m, bales can be easily stacked at greater heights, and dozing work can be carried out in grain stores.

Proven quick-release plate

As with all machines in the series, both models are equipped with the proven and robust SCORPION quick-release headstock, which is compatible with older attachments. In the new series, a side support for the telescopic arm is now available for the 1033 and 741 to 635 models. This additional support provides even greater stability and protection of the machine when work involves significant extension of the arm and major lever action. For businesses in which the demands on the telehandler will not be so high, basic entry-level models without VARIPOWER are also available outside of Germany.

The expertise of Liebherr

In developing the new series, CLAAS has drawn on the expertise of Liebherr, the construction machinery specialists. This innovative family business will continue to collaborate with CLAAS on future projects. They worked together to develop an intelligent chassis and bonnet design for the new SCORPION models, which ensures optimal visibility. The attachment point for the telescopic boom now lies lower on the chassis, significantly expanding the field of view to the right and to the rear.

Cab redesign

The cabs in the new models have also been completely redesigned, and offer complete 360° visibility. All the important switches and controls have been sensibly arranged and are easy to operate. The central gauges/indicating instruments have been bundled together in a 3.5” screen, so that the operator can see all the important machine statuses at a glance, such as the speed, steering type or level of hydraulic oil. From spring 2018, a 7” display screen that combines all these functions will also be available as an option.

Shorter cycle times with SMART LOADING

The SMART LOADING system in the new SCORPION models combines all the systems to ensure optimum use of the machine’s capacity, and is equipped with automatic overload protection to ensure that the operating functions are always well coordinated. An automatic bucket return for loading operations with a set bucket position can also be included as an option, which the driver can set at the touch of a button on the joystick. SMART LOADING also enables fine control of the working hydraulics, to enable stacked goods to be positioned with greater accuracy. The speed of the working hydraulics can be easily halved via a toggle switch.

Optimal engine speed for all applications

With SMART ROADING and DYNAMIC POWER, the new SCORPION models have two systems to ensure an optimal engine speed, both on the road and during operation. The enhanced SMART ROADING automatically adjusts the speed when accelerating and once the maximum speed is achieved. If lower output is required, the engine speed is automatically lowered. In the 756 and 746 models, DYNAMIC POWER regulates the engine speed based on the joystick movements. The use of both systems in tandem ensures a comfortable ride in all applications, saves fuel and reduces noise.

Controllable crab steering

In addition to the standard front steering, all-wheel steering and crab-steering mode, the new SCORPION models all come with an additional fourth manual crab-steering mode, as standard. In contrast to the traditional crab-steering mode, in this mode, the front axle can still be controlled, which offers distinct advantages for certain applications, such as compacting the edges of clamps or moving along the walls of buildings. In addition, all new telehandlers are optionally available with CLAAS TELEMATICS. The SCORPION 741 and 736 models can also be fitted with large 500 tyres, which offer improved stability and reduce ground pressure when working in the field.

The new SCORPION models for HRC will be available from 1 January 2018. From May 2018, the 635, 732, 736, 741 and 1033 models will also be available with Stage IIIA emissions standard engines for LRC.