New multi-power JAGUAR from CLAAS

CLAAS has developed a unique new engine output control system for its top-end JAGUAR forage harvesters which enables the engine to automatically change between 11 different power output levels depending on the load.

The development of the new DYNAMIC POWER engine control system for the JAGUAR 980 and JAGUAR 970 is a result of the move to these models being powered by just a single engine, instead of two previously, in order to comply with the latest emissions regulations.

One of the big advantages of the twin engine system on these two JAGUAR models was the ability if required to run on just one engine for road transport or in light crops in order to save fuel, and only engage the second engine when full power was required.

The new DYNAMIC POWER engine control system has been designed to take this benefit a stage further, by allowing a single engine to operate at 11 different power outputs, so enabling even greater efficiencies whilst still maintaining maximum output from the forage harvester.


Also when combined with the GPS steering, automatic spout control and cruise control systems that are also available for JAGUAR forage harvesters, this not only reduces that operational stress imposed on the operator, but ensures that the whole harvesting team can maintain optimum output efficiency.

Instead of the twin engines previously used on these two models, the range topping JAGUAR 980 is now powered by a single MAN V12 engine whilst the JAGUAR 970 utilises a MAN V8, both of which achieve optimum engine load at 1800rpm.

Using DYNAMIC POWER, as the load on the engine varies, for instance when working in lighter crops, or in lower yielding parts of a field and on the road, the control system automatically recognises this and will alter the engine power output accordingly over 10 power steps.


On the JAGUAR 980, the power output ranges from 272hp up to the maximum of 884hp in 10 steps, whilst on the JAGUAR 970 the 10 steps are over a range from 272hp up to 775hp.

By being able to automatically change power output as the load on the engine changes, this ensures that the engine can maintain its optimum engine load of 1800rpm, when it will be at its most economical, so saving a considerable amount of fuel.

In addition to the 12 volt electrical system used on the main electrical circuits, both the JAGUAR 980 and 970 now also include a 24 volt system used for starting the engine.

For cooling, both JAGUARs are fitted with two large radiators, one above the other for even cooling of the hydraulic, charge air and coolant systems. The radiators are cleaned by a rotary screen and for additional cooling around the engine, a cover in the top of the engine bay automatically opens when the forager is running.

Tougher corn cracking

In 1999, CLAAS led the way in on-board milling of the forage crop with the development of the Corn Cracker and today this CLAAS development is seen as essential when harvesting maize and other crops, such as whole crop.

For 2012 CLAAS has developed a new larger diameter MULTI CROP CRACKER that is designed to comfortably handle the high throughputs that can be achieved with top-of-the-range JAGAUAR 980 and 970 forager harvesters.

Compared to current corn crackers, in order to handle higher throughputs the new MULTI CROP CRACKER features a more rugged design, with twin bearings throughout and double springs on the front roller. In addition the design allows the rollers to be quickly and easily changed, for instance to those with a different profile for more aggressive cracking or harvesting whole crop.