The working height has also been increased with these latest Claas Scorpion handlers capable of working to lift heights of between 6m and 8.8m.

There is now a new larger Scorpion range of machines, the 9055, 7055 and 7044 models while the smaller end of the market is catered for by the Scorpion 7035, 7030 and 6030 models.

Claas has developed a new frame concept for the handlers. This claimed to allow them to lift heavier loads as the pivot point in the frame of the machine is lower than in the past. With the boom lowered, it is fully flush with the frame giving it good stability and better operator visibility. The new frame also allows the use of larger tyres, up to 600/55 - 26.5 tyres on the larger machines.

Claas claims to have redesigned the entire loading system on the machines. The hydraulic cylinders are fitted with end of travel damping, which lowers any shock impacts on the loader. The loader arm is fitted with a new stabiliser system to minimise vibration damping. In automatic mode, this system is automatically activated when the machine exceeds 7km/hour forward speed.

Within the cab, the right dashboard and joystick have been redesigned. The rotary switch to select the steering modes is also changed so that it can be clearly switched by pressing a button.

The joystick, which is built into the driver’s seat on the larger models, is used to select 13 functions. There is a new feature called Snail which gives a speed from 0 to 7km/hr, Tortoise which gives from 0 to 15km/hr and Hare which gives from 0 to 40km/hr.

If the driver limits the forward speed, the machine can operate at slightly increased engine speed to make fuller use of the hydraulic power. These three driving ranges can be changed on the move under full load by just pressing a button.

Claas has introduced what is calls a ‘Smart Handling’ system for the machines. This gives four operating loads for the telescopic arm. These are bucket mode, stack mode, vertical mode and manual mode. The Smart Handling system allows the loader’s drop rate to adjust to the weight of the load and its angle. The higher and heavier the load, the lower will be the drop rate.

The machines have an overload protection system that can be by-passed in some situations for up to 60 seconds for certain applications like filling silage pits.

There is a new automatic bucket return position system and this can be stored in the machine for quicker loading cycles.

The machines have boosted hydraulic power, either 140 litres/min or 187 litres/min for the larger machines. There is a new depressurised unit on the end of the telescopic arm to allow for easier attachment connection.

Claas is using new generation Deutz engines in the Scorpion telehandlers. The larger models have a 4.1-litre engine delivering 156hp and use a diesel particulate filter and a diesel oxidation catalyst system. The smaller machines use a 3.6-litre 122hp engine and a maintenance free diesel oxidation catalyst system.