Front-attached implements requiring a great deal of power are run off the front PTO shaft which takes its power directly from the drivetrain of the engine. It is oil-cooled as a standard feature and with a 1¾” splined shaft, it allows for a high torque transfer whilst also ensuring a very high degree of efficiency – especially in continuous operation.

Even during gear changes, the flow of power is uninterrupted, plus, the coupling can even be actuated under load. The power take-off shaft’s rotational speed (up to 1000 rpm) can be simply and precisely set. It is thus possible to work both comfortably and powerfully at the same time. The front power take-off shaft delivers up to 160 kW while at the mechanical rear power take-off shaft, as much as 220 kW is readily available.

The optional rear-axle auxiliary steering available on the models from the U 423 to the U 530 serves to reduce the turning circle by a further 20 percent. Accordingly, the vehicle’s manoeuvrability also benefits from this in operations during which every centimetre counts. Four types of steering are available: normal steering, all-wheel steering, manual steering and offset track steering (so-called “crab steering”). This variant can help counteract downhill force. When reversing, only the rear wheels steer.

Excellent hydraulic performance which is more precise than ever before: the working hydraulics control implements precisely and without jerky movements. With this in mind, the fully proportional hydraulics system increases efficiency in daily operations. The working hydraulics allow for two positioning movements to be carried out at the same time – simply by using the multifunction joystick. Further functions can be set via the steering wheel buttons. Larger trailer tipping cylinders can also be filled with up to 30 litres of hydraulic oil to draw on as required.

The four-cell working hydraulics and communal hydraulics in accordance with the EN 15431 norm that are used on the implement carrier feature two circuits. Circuit I controls up to eight implement adjustments with a system pressure of 200 bar (32 l/min) over two to four dual-operation valves; alternatively it drives hydraulic motors at the lower output range. When combined, circuits I and II (32 plus 55 l/min) can now mobilise an impressive 35 kW at up to 240 bar. Positioning movements and the powering of hydraulic motors can be carried out independently of one another.

The engines are also used for braking: the strong premium engine brake reduces mechanical wear and tear on the brakes and makes a great contribution to economic efficiency.

The exhaust gas aftertreatment system uses BlueTec 6 technology which has already proven its worth in daily use over many millions of kilometres in our heavy-duty mass-production engines. In the exhaust gas aftertreatment unit, the SCR catalytic converter reduces the nitrogen oxides to a minimum. And the diesel particulate filter prevents almost any soot particles from escaping.