Driving impression: Claas Axion CMATIC Towards the end of last year, Claas became the latest tractor maker to offer a CVT transmission, the CMATIC, on its 200hp Axion line. And, on top of that, the company also took the opportunity to update its mass-market tractor line, converting the previous 500 and 600 series Ares into the all-new Arion

For a tractor buyer in the market for a 200hp Claas Axion, the spec choice is considerable when it comes to deciding on transmission type and level of machine control. So, in an attempt to keep things relatively simple, the manufacturer lists three main packages:
■ Hexashift six-speed semi-powershift, mechanical spools, CIS control
■ Hexashift six-speed semi-powershift, electric time/flow control spools, Cebis control terminal
■ CMATIC infinitely variable, electric time/flow control spool valves, Cebis control terminal.

Already it will have become apparent that this article’s main focus is on the Claas CMATIC CVT transmission. Why? For a number of reasons but largely because, as well as being a notable development in the marketplace, this CVT gearbox also represents yet another step forward in the German company’s onward march towards being considered as one of the top tractor players. John Deere, New Holland, MF and Case IH all have a CVT – and now Claas has one too.

Tagged as CMATIC, this CVT unit is the result of a joint project between ZF and Claas and, in terms of its hardware, is based heavily on the proven S-Matic box found within Case IH CVX and New Holland T7500 models. There are, of course, major differences in the software and the way the respective units are controlled but, in addition, the Claas tractors take boosted outputs to a new level. For example, the Axion 840 delivers a 151kW/205hp rated output that climbs to a boosted 177kW/240hp from 15km/hr and during pto work; as an aside, the flagship Axion 850 model (193kW/260hp max boost) is not available as a CMATIC version and only lists in Hexashift 24F/24R semi-powershift format.

For more up-to-date farming news click here and subscribe now to profi and save