Fendt unveils new series of straw walker combines

 A new entry-level straw walker combine series has joined the Fendt fleet in the 185hp to 260hp sector, replacing the former 5185 E and 5225 E models.

The new Corus 500 series comprises is identical to Massey Ferguson’s July-launched Activa and comprises three machines – the 518 (185hp), 522 (225hp), and the 526 (260hp).

The smallest in the range, the Corus 518, comes equipped with a 4.9-litre four-cylinder Agco Power engine, while its larger siblings, the 522 and 526, are fitted with 7.4-litre, six-cylinder blocks.

See also: New engine and more power for revamped Fendt 700-series

For the first time, Fendt has fitted these entry-level machines with an electro-hydrostatic drive, which helps to control the speed intelligently, dependent on whether the operator selects field or road mode.

In road mode, the engine speed of the Corus is lowered in order to save on fuel consumption, while, in field mode, the engine can be operated at full speed, depending on the demand.

Cab changes

Those familiar with the previous 5225 E model will recognise the Corus cab, which remains largely the same.

However, there have been a number of revisions, such as an improved joystick that allows control of the speed and the header.

Similarly, the concave and the sieves can now be controlled directly from the cab, and there are two optional cameras that provide an overall view of the machine.

Header options and grain tanks

It is worth noting that, for the first time in this segment, the Powerflow and Freeflow headers will be available on all of the Corus 500 models, giving working widths of up to 7.6m.

Similarly, Agco’s Multi Crop Separator (MCS) and threshing system is also available as an option. This has been taken from the L-series, and aims to separate as much grain as possible before the crop reaches the straw walkers.

Tank capacity for the Corus 518 is 5,200 litres, while the larger 522 can be equipped with a 6,500-litre tank, which the 526 comes with as standard.