Behind the scenes: Weeks of preparations and instructions

A true open-air laboratory, the Le Mans track represents an essential vector of innovation, because the extreme constraints of endurance – race duration and high mileage. But every adventure must be properly prepared. At CLAAS, prior to the race, the task was to bring together 25 identical machines that meet the requirements of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) and, for the technical trainers at the CLAAS FRANCE Academy in Ymeray, to train more than 70 drivers in handling the agile seed green telehandlers.

Prior to the test days, the SCORPION assisted the scrutineering of the race cars – the technical control and conformity including the weighing of the cars. Agro-equipment students from the local Agricultural High School of Rouillon then helped to transport and place the 21 out of 25 SCORPION along the 13.626 km track. The students then also fitted all machines with FIA WEC* approved hooks and lifting bars. During the test days, previous races and finally the Le Mans 24 hours day & night, the CLAAS technical assistance team gave instructions to drivers to ensure the best utilisation of the machine. And that is exactly how it was. “Our SCORPION telehandlers have proven as efficient, agile, reliable and easy to handle machines”, resumes Dr. Martin von Hoyningen-Huene. “In this way, they have met the same requirements that demanding farmers and contractors place on our machines.”

Some of the race-proven SCORPION will be returning to farms, while others will be supporting upcoming races such as Classic Days (July 6 and 7), Porsche Sprint Challenge (September 20-21) and the “24 Heures Camions” truck race (September 27-28).

*Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile - World Endurance Championship

CLAAS successfully supports “24 Hours of Le Mans” race with HVO-driven SCORPION telehandlers