In anticipation of the upcoming sales season, Claas is getting a head start by unveiling some of the new products set to make their public debut at Eima 2026.
Leading the way in terms of market potential are the expansion of the “Volto” tedder series and, above all, the launch of the new “Axion 8 Cmatic” and “Arion 6 Cmatic” series tractors in the medium- and high-horsepower segments
“He who has time should not wait,” goes a famous proverb. It urges timely action rather than putting things off until tomorrow, as favorable circumstances might change. Indeed, it is a piece of wise folk wisdom reminding us that waiting can be risky and that seizing opportunities on the fly is the secret to not wasting one’s potential.
Claas has embraced this philosophy as well; it is no coincidence that, last July, the German manufacturer gave an early preview of new products—set to make their public debut this November at EIMA 2026—that will expand its lineup for the upcoming sales season.
Taking center stage is the expansion of the “Volto” tedder series and, above all, the debut of the new high- and medium-horsepower “Axion 8 Cmatic” and “Arion 6 Cmatic” tractor ranges. The latter, in particular, had been eagerly awaited since the preview of the flagship “Arion 6.190 Cmatic” model at Agritechnica 2025; the German manufacturer had already begun selling this model alongside the established “Arion 600” series during the first half of the current year.
The series is now rounded out by two additional models—the “Arion 6.140 Cmatic” and “Arion 6.160 Cmatic”—which also feature the new design identity Claas introduced for its conventional tractors last November in Hannover with the “Axion 9 Cmatic” series and the aforementioned “Arion 6.190 Cmatic.”
All three models share the same six-cylinder engines sourced from DPS (Deere Power Systems). These 6.8-liter units deliver maximum power outputs ranging from 145 hp for the entry-level “Arion 6.140 Cmatic” to 185 hp for the high-performance “Arion 6.190 Cmatic,” with the mid-range “Arion 6.160 Cmatic” producing 165 hp. Notably, the flagship “Arion 6.190 Cmatic” includes the “CPM” (Claas Power Management) function, which provides an extra 20 hp during PTO operations or road transport.
The units operate in conjunction with the “Cmatic” transmission—a continuously variable unit of original Claas design featuring the new “Auto Load Anticipation” function, which predictively optimizes engine speed and transmission ratios based on an adaptive algorithm and efficiency maps for the engine, transmission, hydraulics, and auxiliary systems. The load-sensing hydraulic system delivers up to 150 liters per minute for the “Arion 6.190 Cmatic” model, and 110 liters per minute for the “Arion 6.140 Cmatic” and “Arion 6.160 Cmatic” versions; this system supplies four rear spool valves and the lift units, with the rear lift offering a maximum capacity of 8,000 kg and the front lift a capacity of 4,000 kg.
Operational comfort is enhanced by the “Proactiv” independent front axle suspension and the four-post cabs, which feature new premium seats—incorporating massage functions, semi-active suspension, and climate control—alongside the “Cmotion” multifunction lever, operable with just three fingers.
The latter enables direct control of all onboard functions via the 12-inch “Cemis 1200” touchscreen monitor; this also serves as the interface for ISOBUS implement control and Claas digital systems, including the “Cemos” assistance system. Designed to support the operator during daily tasks, “Cemos” suggests real-time adjustments to working components to optimize machine performance based on operating conditions.
Standard equipment also includes a new infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, designed to enhance operator comfort. Meanwhile, productivity is boosted by the integration of the “Auto CSM” function into the “GPS Pilot CEMIS 1200” guidance system; this function automatically triggers customizable headland management sequences. The “GPS Pilot CEMIS 1200” system also allows for advance planning of guidance lines based on field boundaries via the “CLAAS connect” platform; these can then be sent to the tractor as a work order or shared directly with other machines in the field.
To further optimize operational efficiency, the system incorporates the new “Auto RefLine” function. This automatically detects the most suitable or logical reference line based on the tractor’s position and direction of travel, switching between lines without operator intervention; the system automatically adjusts trajectories when transitioning to headland lines or during operations involving variable angles and geometries.
A generational leap
An evolution of the “Axion 800” models—which enabled Claas to consistently rank among the top ten most registered high-horsepower tractors in Italy each year—the new “Axion 8 Cmatic” series represents a genuine generational leap in terms of technology and automation compared to its predecessors.
For this very reason, the “Axion 8 Cmatic” series will be the subject of an in-depth feature in the magazine’s next issue; however, it is worth noting now that the new series comprises three models—the “Axion 8.240 Cmatic,” “Axion 8.270 Cmatic,” and “Axion 8.290 Cmatic”—replacing the five models that made up the “Axion 800” series.
A further difference compared to the latter models is the discontinuation of the “Hexshift” full powershift transmission and the exclusive adoption—across all versions—of the “Cmatic” continuously variable transmission (CVT). This system also incorporates the “Auto Load Anticipation” function and operates using planetary gear sets; the mechanical component is managed via electro-hydraulic clutches that effectively simulate powershift behavior, ensuring uninterrupted torque delivery to the wheels during gear transitions.
The engines remain unchanged—6.7-liter, six-cylinder Fpt units—but their maximum power ratings have increased; the new series tops out at 313 hp with the flagship “Axion 8.290” model, thanks largely to the “Dynamic Power” system. This system intelligently distributes available power among all consumers and automatically reduces output during partial-load conditions.
This feature is part of the “Cemos Auto Powertrain” management system, alongside the dynamic “Auto Droop” function. The latter automatically adjusts power delivery based on the load required by the task at hand, ensuring minimal energy consumption and the lowest possible fuel usage at all times.
Claas, the efficient face of haymaking
Alongside the launch of the new “Axion 8 Cmatic” and “Arion 6 Cmatic” tractor series, Claas has also expanded its “Volto” tedder lineup. The flagship “Volto 1100 T/Ts” and “Volto 1300 T/Ts” models are now joined by seven new mounted and trailed versions, featuring working widths ranging from 6.60 meters to 10.80 meters.
These new models also benefit from the exclusive “Max Spread” system; thanks to a rearward mounting of the 9.5 mm thick tines, the individual elements operate at a 29.3-degree angle. This ensures optimal crop turning by maintaining a vertical or horizontal position relative to the direction of travel for 33 percent longer than conventional solutions.
The result is a nearly linear flow of material between the rotors, favoring both particularly gentle forage handling and a wider, more uniform distribution across the field.
Furthermore, the spreading angle can be adjusted to 12, 16, or 18 degrees without tools by using the pivot pins on the rotors; this is facilitated by the “Permalink” finger coupling system, which ensures reliable power transmission under all operating conditions and is maintenance-free (with the obvious exception of the PTO shaft). This system also allows the spreading arms to fold 180 degrees, achieving the most compact transport position possible.
A new, compact trapezoidal support frame keeps the center of gravity of these three-point mounted tedders close to the tractor, helping to reduce the required lifting force, while the use of “Clk” hydraulic stabilizer arms on mounted models ensures smoother, more precise tracking—translating in practice to higher working speeds and reduced operating times.
Title: Tractors and hay tedder: Claas previews its new Eima products
Translation with Google
