Krone previewed its most powerful SPFH so far at a farm near Berlin, Germany, yesterday. Called the Big X 1180, it produces a maximum output of 1,156hp.
The flagship of a new four-model range, which also includes the recently-launched Liebherr V8 powered Big X 680, 780 and 880, the new top model is believed to be the most powerfully produced commercially available agricultural machine.
The major change is in the engine department where the 1,078hp MAN 24.24-litre block in the Big X 1100 has been swapped for the slightly more powerful Liebherr V12 Stage V engine. The 1180 shares much of the rest of spec with the 880, but then with larger pulleys are belts.
Other new features across all four models includes independent rear wheel suspension, automatic shearbar adjustment and a new corn conditioner called OptiMaxx. New options include the EasyLoad automatic filling system, which uses camera-based 3D image analysis to automatically fill a trailer.
Three pre-series Big X 780s and an 880 have been in the UK this season. The Big X 700 and 770 are currently the most popular models and Krone UK expects the new 780 to take over as the best-selling model.
The first opportunity to see the German manufacturer’s new flagship forager is likely to be at LAMMA in January, and all four new models, which replace the Big X 700, 770, 850 and 1100, are available to order now. Big X 1180 prices are expected to start from around £485,000. More details in the next issue.
