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Spring 2026 Edition


 

As the temperatures rise, Harvest Times kicks off this spring with a heart-warming new docuseries, "CLAAS: Made for More." Aired earlier this year on RFD TV, the three-part program tells the story of how this family-owned company was built, its expansion into a global manufacturing giant, and its influence in North America. Other articles highlight the company's latest exploits at the Nebraska Tractor Test Lab, tell the story of a TRION 740 owner in Illinois, discuss the benefits of CLAAS connect and the advantages of CLAAS Annual Inspection Program. It's a great read you won't want to miss.

 

“CLAAS: Made for More” 

Docuseries Brings the CLAAS Story to Life

Viewers of the popular agricultural network, RFD-TV recently had the opportunity to see the story of CLAAS unfold in a new three-part docuseries titled “CLAAS: Made for More.” Aired from January 21 to February 4, the series offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s largest agricultural equipment manufacturers—tracing its journey from a small family enterprise to a global leader in agricultural innovation.
 

 

Hosted by beloved broadcaster Kirbe Schnoor, the series takes viewers on an international tour that highlights the people, technology, and values that have defined CLAAS for more than a century. From the company’s origins in Germany to its continued growth in North America, each episode explores how family ownership, engineering excellence, and a deep connection to agriculture have shaped the CLAAS story.

 

Throughout the series, Schnoor travels across Germany, France, and throughout the United States and Canada to meet the individuals who make the CLAAS network thrive. Conversations with family leadership and global executives provide insight into the company’s vision and long-term commitment to agriculture. At the same time, visits with production teams, dealers, and farmers illustrate how CLAAS equipment supports professional producers in the field every day.

 

 

The program also highlights the company’s growing presence in North America. From advanced combine production to expanding dealer support and training initiatives, the series showcases how CLAAS continues to invest in the region while adapting its equipment and services to the unique needs of North American agriculture.

 

For those who missed the original broadcast on RFD-TV, the full docuseries is now available online through the CLAAS of America channel on YouTube, making it easy for dealers, customers, and fans of agricultural innovation to watch at their convenience. 

 

 

Whether you are a longtime CLAAS customer or simply interested in the history of agricultural innovation, “CLAAS: Made for More” provides a compelling look at the people, passion, and progress behind the brand—and the reason CLAAS continues to be made for more in fields around the world.

 

Small in Size. Big on Fit.

Todd Widholm’s take on the TRION 740

The class-seven TRION 740 strikes an ideal balance of power, efficiency, and advanced technology for today’s operations. With 435 hp, it’s thoughtfully designed to deliver exceptional performance where it matters most—maximizing productivity while keeping operating costs in check.

Growers – regardless of their farm size – all deal with the same challenges. Narrow harvesting windows, challenging weather conditions and frequent labor shortages. For farmers like Todd Widholm, that means every hour in the field matters—and the combine must be ready to perform day after day.

 

Widholm relies on a CLAAS TRION 740 combine to keep his harvest moving efficiently. After running the machine through demanding Midwestern harvest conditions, he’s found it delivers the balance of power, simplicity, and reliability that many small- to medium-sized farms need.

 

“This combine fits our farm well. It has the capacity we need without being overly complicated.” For Widholm, that combination has made the TRION 740 a dependable partner during the busiest weeks of the year.

Right-Sized Performance for Corn and Soybeans
 

Across the U.S. Corn Belt, many operations harvest between 1,000 and 3,000 acres of crops each year. For farms of that size, the challenge is finding equipment that offers modern harvesting technology without stepping into the size and cost category of the largest machines.

 

That’s exactly where the TRION 740 fits.

 

With 435 max horsepower and the ability to run large corn and draper heads, the combine provides the capacity needed to harvest high-yield corn and soybeans efficiently.

 

For Widholm, that productivity shows up where it matters most—in the grain tank.

 

“The machine handles our crops well. It keeps a consistent flow through the combine and does a good job with grain quality.”

 

Designed to Keep Harvest Moving
 

One of the key strengths of the TRION 740 is its hybrid threshing system, which combines the APS tangential threshing unit with a single-rotor separation system. This design accelerates crop flow early in the process, helping maximize throughput while maintaining low grain losses.

 

The result is steady harvesting performance even when conditions change throughout the day. For operators like Widholm, that means less time making adjustments and more time harvesting.

 

“Once it’s set, the combine does its job. That consistency helps us stay productive during long harvest days.”

 

Simple Operation, Professional Results
 

Another advantage of the TRION platform is its operator-friendly design. Modern technology and automation are integrated in a way that help operators maintain optimal performance without adding unnecessary complexity.

 

Automated adjustments and intelligent crop-flow management help keep the machine running efficiently while reducing the workload on the operator. That simplicity has been one of the biggest benefits for Widholm.


“The controls are straightforward, and it’s easy to get comfortable running the machine.”
 

Reliability When the Crop Is Ready


Every farmer knows that when the crop reaches ideal moisture, there’s no time for downtime.

 

Reliability is essential, especially during peak harvest when machines often run long hours each day. The TRION 740 was designed to deliver durable performance and minimal maintenance interruptions, helping operators stay in the field when conditions are right. For Widholm, that dependability has proven itself season after season.


“Harvest is too important to deal with downtime. The TRION has been a reliable machine for us.”

 

Built for Real Farms


Across the corn and soybean belts producers are searching for combines that blend modern harvesting technology with practical day-to-day usability.

 

For operations that want solid capacity without jumping up to largest combine classes, the TRION 740 offers a compelling solution.

 

For Todd Widholm, the value of the machine becomes clear each fall.


“It’s a combine that fits farms like ours. It has the performance we need to get the crop out efficiently.” For Widholm, that dependability has proven itself season after season. “Harvest is too important to deal with downtime. The TRION has been a reliable machine for us.”

 

Smart Harvesting with CEMOS AUTOMATIC


One of the features Todd Widholm values most on his CLAAS TRION 740 combine is CEMOS AUTOMATIC, an intelligent machine optimization system that helps operators get the most out of every acre.

 

Traditionally, optimizing a combine meant constantly adjusting rotor speed, fan speed, and sieve settings throughout the day as crop conditions changed. That process often required an experienced operator—and valuable harvest time.

 

CEMOS AUTOMATIC simplifies that process by continuously monitoring the combine’s performance and automatically adjusting key settings to maintain optimal harvesting efficiency.

 

For Widholm, that means the combine is always working at peak performance, even as field conditions change. “CEMOS takes a lot of the guesswork out of setting the combine. It helps keep everything dialed in while we focus on harvesting.”

 

The system analyzes crop flow, grain quality, and losses in real time, making small adjustments to threshing, separation, and cleaning systems to maintain the best possible balance of throughput and grain quality.

 

For small- to medium-sized farms, that technology delivers a major advantage.

 

Why It Matters


CEMOS AUTOMATIC helps operators:

  • Maintain maximum throughput in changing crop conditions
  • Reduce grain loss and damaged grain
  • Improve fuel efficiency and machine productivity
  • Simplify operation for less experienced operators

 

Just as importantly, it demonstrates how CLAAS advanced harvesting technology is now available on mid-size combines like the TRION 740—not just the largest machines in the field.

 

For farmers like Todd Widholm, that means better results with less time spent adjusting the machine. “It’s impressive technology. The combine is constantly optimizing itself so we can keep moving.” 

 

Watch his story on video!
 

“Flying Colors”

XERION 12 Series Passes the Test—and Raises the Bar at NTTL

Recent third-party testing at the Nebraska Tractor Testing Laboratory (NTTL) put the CLAAS XERION 12 Series through its paces—and the results speak for themselves. All four models were tested on the dyno and the track, then stacked up against comparable high-horsepower 4WD tractors.

While each model held its own in its class, a few consistent advantages showed up across the entire XERION 12 lineup—advantages that matter when you’re covering serious acres and running long days.

 

Cab and Driving Comfort

 

When your “office” is perched atop a 500+ horsepower chassis, comfort isn’t a luxury—it’s part of staying productive and safe. It’s also one of the first things operators notice when they step into a XERION 12 Series.

 

The difference shows up both in the numbers at NTTL and in the operator’s seat itself. Unlike most competitors, the XERION 12 Series uses a solid frame rather than an articulated design. Steering happens at the wheel hubs instead of the center pivot, which translates into a more stable, predictable ride—especially when stopping with heavy implements behind you.

 

That stability pays off in real-world situations: packing silage along bunker walls, running grain carts, or maneuvering in tight yards. Add in multiple steering modes, and the tractor adapts to the job instead of the other way around.

 

Then there’s the CMATIC CVT transmission, which eliminates the need for shifting and simplifies operation for less-experienced drivers. While many competitive tractors rely on powershift designs, the XERION’s full CVT delivers maximum power at any speed—not just within fixed ranges. On the test track and in the field, that means smoother operation, easier control, and more consistent power under heavy loads.

 

And when it comes to noise, less is more. Across all models, the XERION 12 Series posted cab noise levels much quieter than the competition—as quiet as 60.1 decibels at low speed (XERION 12.590) and 67.8 decibels at its loudest (XERION 12.650 TT) -- something you’ll appreciate when trying to communicate with your team in the field.
 

Pulling and Lifting Performance

 

Big tractors are built to handle big loads—and this is where the XERION 12 Series really separates itself.

 

On the track, the pulling performance of the XERION 12 TERRA TRAC models really excelled. The XERION 12.650TT and 12.590TT both pulled an impressive 56,793 pounds at 2.4 mph. When conditions get tough, extra pull can make the difference between finishing the job or fighting through it.

 

For most farmers, 3-point lift capacity isn’t a huge deal. For others, it’s critical. If you’re one of the latter, the 3-point hitch capacity exceeded 24,000 pounds across the XERION 12 lineup, delivering 14–26% more lifting capability than comparable machines. That’s not just a number—it’s the flexibility to handle larger implements without compromise.

 

PTO and Hydraulic Capacity

 

Today’s implements demand serious power—and the XERION 12 Series delivers.

 

PTO torque on the TERRA TRAC models reached up to 2,135 lb-ft, as much as 80% higher than comparable John Deere 9RX models. That kind of torque keeps high-demand equipment running smoothly, even under load.

 

Hydraulics are just as important, especially for large air seeders and planters. On wheeled XERION models, hydraulic flow reached up to 24% more than the competition in the same horsepower class. Simply put, it’s built to keep up with the biggest tools in your lineup.
 

From the Track to the Field

 

Strong test results are one thing—but what matters is how that performance translates in the field.

 

The XERION 12 Series stands out because it does both. The combination of a solid frame, intuitive steering, stepless CVT, and a quiet, comfortable cab makes it one of the easiest high-horsepower tractors to operate—especially over long hours.

 

Pair that with its proven ability to pull, power and lift today’s largest implements, and it’s clear why more large-scale operators are taking a closer look at the XERION 12 Series.

 

The numbers back it up. The experience confirms it.

 

The only question is—will it earn a spot in your operation?
 

Five Reasons Why CLAAS connect is Worth the Setup:

Check out the CLAAS digital platform

Modern farming demands information, efficiency, collaboration, and fast access to support. That’s why CLAAS created CLAAS connect - a digital platform designed to give CLAAS equipment owners a single place to manage their machines, access service information, review operational data, and connect with their dealer support network.
 

For owners of CLAAS equipment, signing up for the free CLAAS connect service provides immediate benefits that make managing your fleet easier and more productive.


1. One Digital Home for All Your Equipment


CLAAS connect empowers farmers with a centralized platform to efficiently manage their entire fleet. You can easily register all your CLAAS machines for instant access to essential details, service history, and operational data. The platform also allows you to add non-CLAAS equipment for a comprehensive fleet overview, helping you keep track of your operation in one place.


For CLAAS machines, CLAAS connect offers advanced features such as real-time mapping and documentation through a subscription - making it easy to visualize your equipment and record important operational information. Access everything you need from your computer, tablet, or smartphone, and enjoy streamlined management that keeps your farm running smoothly.


2. Instant Access to Parts and Service Information


Downtime during planting or harvest is costly. CLAAS connect makes it easy for owners to find the information they need quickly by providing direct access to essential resources. Through the platform, operators can use PartsDoc to identify and order parts for their CLAAS machines, consult the Lubricant Advisor to optimize maintenance routines, and access operator manuals and technical documentation all in one place.


These tools help you prepare for service needs and work more effectively with your local CLAAS dealer. With streamlined access to parts catalogs and maintenance information, you can minimize downtime and keep your operation running smoothly.


3. Better Machine Management and Insights


CLAAS connect helps owners gain deeper insight into CLAAS machine performance and usage. When connected with compatible systems, operators can monitor machine data, review operational metrics, and better understand how their CLAAS equipment is performing in the field.


These insights can help optimize machine settings, improve harvesting efficiency, and support better decisions about machine utilization across the operation.


4. Direct Connection to Your CLAAS Dealer


CLAAS connect strengthens the partnership between equipment owners and their dealer support teams. Through the platform, owners can communicate more easily with their local dealer, share machine information, and streamline service coordination.


When technicians have access to machine information ahead of a service visit, they can diagnose issues faster and arrive better prepared, helping reduce downtime when every hour counts.


5. It’s Free—and Designed to Grow with Your Operation


The core CLAAS connect platform is completely free for CLAAS equipment owners. Once registered, users gain immediate access to a wide range of digital tools designed to support their machines.


Additional features, such as mapping and documentation, are available as subscription services for CLAAS machines only. As CLAAS continues to expand digital services and connected machine capabilities, CLAAS connect will remain the central platform where new tools and features become available - ensuring owners stay connected to the latest technology.

 

Get Started Today:


Registering for CLAAS connect takes only a few minutes and provides immediate value for managing your CLAAS equipment. Whether you operate a single machine or manage an entire fleet, CLAAS connect helps keep your machines, information, and support network connected.
 

For owners of CLAAS equipment, it’s a simple step that can make every season run more smoothly.

 

Get CLAAS connect

 

Six Reasons to Participate in the CLAAS Annual Inspection

Plus up to 6,000 More . . .

When the season slows down, the best operators don’t. They shift gears—from running hard in the field to getting ready for the next push. That’s where the 2026 CLAAS Annual Inspection Program comes in: a practical, proactive way to protect uptime, performance, and your bottom line—while putting real dollars back in your pocket.

 

This year’s program brings an added incentive: 5% back on all eligible CLAAS OEM parts installed during a qualifying inspection, up to $6,000 per machine. That’s not just a tune-up—it’s an investment that pays.

Here are six reasons to make it part of your off-season plan:

 

1. Stay Ahead of Wear—Before It Becomes Downtime


Harvest and planting windows don’t wait. Annual inspections catch wear points early—belts, chains, bearings, knives, rotors—before they turn into in-season failures. It’s the difference between a planned shop visit and an unplanned shutdown when timing matters most.

 

2. Maximize Performance When It Counts


Whether it’s a high-capacity combine or a forage harvester pushing tonnage, peak performance starts with proper setup. Dealer technicians know your machine inside and out, ensuring your equipment is dialed in and ready to deliver factory-level performance from day one.

 

3. Put Experienced Eyes on Your Machine


CLAAS-certified technicians bring a trained, unbiased perspective. They’re not just looking for what’s broken—they’re identifying what’s about to be. That insight helps you prioritize repairs and make smarter maintenance decisions across your fleet.

 

4. Turn Off-Season Time into In-Season Confidence


The off-season is your best opportunity to address issues without pressure. Scheduling inspections ahead of the rush means better turnaround times, better parts availability, and one less thing to worry about when the weather turns.

 

5. Protect Resale Value and Longevity


Consistent, documented maintenance keeps your equipment in top condition—and protects its value. Whether you plan to run your machine for years or trade up down the road, a well-maintained unit always stands stronger in the market.

 

6. Get Paid Back for Doing What You Should Already Be Doing


Here’s where “6,000 more” comes into play. The 2026 CLAAS Annual Inspection Program offers:

  • 5% rebate on eligible CLAAS OEM parts installed during a qualifying inspection
  • Up to $6,000 per machine
  • Eligible parts purchases ranging from $100 to $120,000 per serial number (within a 12-month period)
  • Rebate issued on a pre-paid card (available as a virtual card or physical card)
     

 

It’s a straightforward way to reduce your maintenance costs—while ensuring the job is done right by your dealer.

Program Details at a Glance:

 

Eligible Equipment:

  • LEXION combines
  • TRION combines
  • JAGUAR forage harvesters
  • XERION, AXION, and ARION tractors 

     

Eligible Parts:

  • CLAAS OEM parts installed by the dealer as a direct result of the annual inspection
  • Parts from subsequent repairs or breakdowns are not eligible

     

Program Guidelines:

  • One inspection submission per machine serial number every six months
  • Rebate based on CLAAS suggested list price at time of inspection
  • CLAAS machinery wholesaled by entities other than CLAAS of America are not eligible for this program.

 

Make It a Habit—Not a Hail Mary


The best operations don’t rely on luck—they rely on preparation. The CLAAS Annual Inspection Program is built for professionals who understand that uptime isn’t accidental. Schedule your inspection with your local CLAAS dealer and head into harvest season knowing your equipment is ready to perform—because you made the time to make it right.

 

Six smart reasons. Up to 6,000 more. That’s a return worth planning for.