Landpower New Zealand’s product manager, Dave Knowles, says the Axion 900 is a new generation of tractors “purpose-engineered to enable man and machine to work productively for hours on end”.
“Comfort is often the furthest thing a buyer thinks about when selecting a new tractor,” he says. “Ironically, they’ll have plenty of time to think about it afterwards.”
Large tractors often run 24/7 for weeks on end, and here the Axion 900 shines, he says.
Further, optional front axle suspension can provide an even smoother ride. “Everything about the cabin and its operating systems is designed to make a working day productive and as comfortable…. Once you’ve driven an Axion for a day or two, you’ll never want to go back to an ordinary tractor.”
The four-pillar cab has a one-piece windscreen and convex rear window for all-round visibility. The cab is mounted forward of the rear axle, good for comfort. Large panoramic doors help access and visibility.
The Axion 900 has the Claas electronic on-board information system (CEBIS) developed first for the Claas Lexion and Jaguar harvesters. “CEBIS monitors and controls all of the tractor’s key functions,” Knowles says. The 210 mm colour screen is mounted on the driver’s seat armrest and is adjustable to allow its position to be fined-tuned to suit individual drivers.
“A glance gives the operator a simple and concise summary of the status of all operating systems. It’s incredibly simple to use. The intuitive workflow enables just about any operator to understand and begin working with the system right away.”
All of the main controls needed to operate the tractor are built into the CMotion multi-function lever integrated in the right armrest. Up to 20 functions – such as direction of travel, driving range, hydraulics, rear linkage, headland management, auto steering, transmission mode and cruise control – can be adjusted with just three fingers, says Knowles.
“The operator also has direct access the hydraulic controls, speed ranges and cruise control.”
A number of GPS steering systems can be fitted. Creature comforts include seat options, adjustable steering column, active climate control and a refrigerator box.