Updated Feb. 15, 2024

While New Holland was launching its CR11 combine at Agritechnica, Case IH announced it would be introducing its “biggest combine ever produced,” the AF Series, in 2024. The new combine is set to be announced on Feb. 6. 

The press release announcing the coming introduction on Nov. 13, 2023, listed these features:

  • More Power: Up to 775 hp, 24% more than previous models.
  • Larger Grain Tank: Holding up to 20,000 Litres.
  • Superior Unload Rate: 210 Litres/sec.
  • Longer Rotor: 50% more separation to process high yielding crops
  • Larger Fuel Tank: A 25% increase in fuel tank size.

  • New Cross Flow Plus Cleaning System: 32% larger than previous models.

One Case IH and New Holland dealer who described it as “the worst kept secret in farm equipment,” confirmed the new red introduction is the same machine as the CR11.

The CR11 won a Gold Innovation Award from Agritechnica, and has close to zero grain loss, higher throughputs and more automation that cuts down on the total cost of harvesting. It has a 775 horsepower C16 engine, 2-by-24 inch rotors, a 567-bushel grain tank and a 6-bushel per second unload rate.

AF11 on Display at National Farm Machinery Show 

During the National Farm Machinery Show, Feb. 14-16, in Louisville, Case IH displayed the recently unveiled AF11 and the next generation corn head, designed to match its capacity,

The AF11 sets the bar in maximizing time in field, Case IH says. To maximize capacity of the AF11, Case IH is introducing the C516 corn head, offering improved performance with a swift, clean harvesting solution. 

“We know that farmers are looking to pick corn faster, cleaner and with as little downtime as possible,” says Leo Bose, harvesting segment lead for Case IH. “When paired with an Axial-Flow combine, like the AF11, this durable corn head will deliver maximized capacity and throughput.”

The C516 corn head is designed with runtime in mind. It boasts the largest cross auger in the industry for maximized throughput, independent drive lines that allow for row unit protection, and overall weight reduction for improved flotation and reduced soil compaction. The C516 corn head and AF11 will be available only in North America. 

The AF11 brings together runtime advancements through speed and technology to maximize in-field productivity in this 775 hp machine. By coupling Case IH’s first-ever dual rotor, the AFXL2, with an active and dynamic cleaning system, the AF11 delivers industry-leading capacity.

“We recognize growers have an increasing amount of ground to cover while facing unpredictable harvest windows and labor shortages. With the AF11, Case IH addresses these variables head-on,” says Bose. “We see this machine as a way to drive capacity, bring state of the art technology and bottom-line benefits for our customers, while also providing the reliability that customers have come to expect from Case IH.”

The AF11 builds upon Axial-Flow strength and heritage, providing matched capacity from header to spreader. The speed and throughput are delivered with consistent crop flow, reduced grain loss and radar-controlled residue management. The AF11 boasts a 567-bushel grain tank and a 6-bushel-per-second unload rate, leading stats for a Class 10+ combine. Plus, it delivers improved fuel efficiency and a large fuel tank to keep runtime at a maximum.

“Our product development process, which is centered around farmers, identified the need for matched capacity, speed and throughput,” adds Bose. “The AFXL2 dual rotor technology drives that capability to harvest more in less time.”

Drew Baker, a Canadian farmer, is looking to increase productivity and efficiency as harvesting windows narrow and input costs increase. Baker sees the AF11 as a way to revolutionize his farm amid those harvesting challenges.

“I would say [the AF11] makes us look differently at our future options. If we can cut our [grain] losses, do more in a day, burn less fuel and lose less out of the back of the combine – that’s a real advantage,” said Baker, who farms just outside of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The AF11 is the first in the AF series and will offer a number of top-of-the-line technology-focused features, including Case IH’s combine automation solution, Harvest Command. 

Case IH offers a suite of precision technology and connectivity products that not only simplify harvest operations, but also solve ongoing issues, such as labor and operating windows by opening doors to less experienced labor, and help an operation improve its ROI through shared analytics and diagnostics.

“The AF11 is offering technology-driven efficiencies to growers,” adds Bose. “It’s about elevating control – even if the farmer isn’t in the driver seat. We’re providing technology that can optimize machine settings in real-time to navigate even the toughest conditions harvest can throw your way.”

The AF11 will only be available in North America and more information about specifications and pricing will be released at a later date.

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