²ÝÁñÉçÇø

Claas bring hybrid engineering to a new combine concept

Occupying a section of Claas' new technology display, the manufacturer gave visitors an insight into a future drive option it is currently working on for its combine products.

clock • 1 min read
Claas hybrid combine concept
Image:

Claas hybrid combine concept

Using a smaller engine with a generator linked to a battery module, the design fixes the engine at a constant operating speed, with the option to power aspects of the vehicle electrically, or provide a short-term power boost for particular functions, such as operating the unloading auger.

This power mix layout allows the fitment of a smaller engine capable of running 75 to 80 per cent of the machine demand, with the electrical generation and battery providing the boost to full power.

The option of a battery gives the ability to absorb load at peak demand, but also change the drive function of some components. This has the potential to simplify parts of the machine through the removal of belts, chains, hydraulic motors or clutches, but also allows the use of variable speed drives without the cost and weight of gearboxes.

Claas says the system is still at the early concept stages with a few units operating in test conditions and would not comment if, or when, the technology would be seen on production machines.

Case 9564wd Tractor pick up hitch.

£±Ê°¿´¡

2023 Case CVX175

£±Ê°¿´¡

John Deere 6130M TLS

£±Ê°¿´¡

More on Machinery

Specific tyre requirements for specialist crop harvesting

Specific tyre requirements for specialist crop harvesting

clock 26 November 2024 • 6 min read
Multi-purpose drill boosts workload

Multi-purpose drill boosts workload

With demand for forage crop drilling and environmental work increasing, contractor AJP Agricultural has found the Moore Unidrill a useful addition. Jane Carley reports

clock 26 November 2024 • 6 min read
Cost conscious chopping with classic Claas

Cost conscious chopping with classic Claas

Agricultural engineer William Muir has brought his skills back to the family farm, utilising reliable and well-maintained kit for the silage harvest.

clock 25 November 2024 • 4 min read