AGCO/Fendt has made a name for itself in the electrification of agriculture. For many years, Fendt has been developing practical solutions for the efficient use of electrical propulsion systems. The Fendt e100 Vario now becomes the first practical, battery-powered tractor which can be used in normal operation for a full working day without the need to recharge.
Fendt e100 Vario: The battery-powered compact tractor
AGCO/Fendt has made a name for itself in the electrification of agriculture. For many years, Fendt has been developing practical solutions for the efficient use of electrical propulsion systems. The Fendt e100 Vario now becomes the first practical, battery-powered tractor which can be used in normal operation for a full working day without the need to recharge.
The reduction of CO2 emissions is central to all our futures, and agriculture is no exception. Many agricultural enterprises generate power from renewable sources, which is financially attractive if used on the farm itself. High-capacity battery technology is now available on the market, and is ideal for use in compact tractors. The ever-growing need to reduce noise and exhaust emissions is also a driving force behind the development of electrical systems.
Fendt e100 Vario
Against this background, AGCO/Fendt has launched the Fendt e100 Vario, a practical, all-electric compact tractor with 50 kW power output, which can operate for up to 5 hours under actual operating conditions. The energy source is a 650 V high-capacity lithium-ion battery with a capacity of around 100 kWh. The battery is charged either with 400 V and up to 22 kW via a standard CEE outdoor socket, or by a supercharging option with direct voltage. With a standard CCS type 2 plug, the battery can be recharged up to 80% in just 40 minutes. In addition, energy can be recovered thanks to the use of an electric motor.
Fully compatible
The Fendt e100 Vario allows the use of conventional as well as electrified implements. The electric tractor is fitted with two AEF-compliant power interfaces for electrical equipment. A short-term boost of up to 150 kW for the implements can be provided by the battery.
A standard PTO connection is also available, as well as the normal hydraulic supply to implements. Therefore, the Fendt e100 Vario can be used with existing equipment with no additional caveats, but is also equipped to reap the benefits of using electrical implements.
Precise and dynamic control is enabled thanks to the electrical drive. The maximum torque for the ground drive and PTO drive is supplied from a standing start. Safety is guaranteed by an insulated design and continuous, electronic system monitoring.
Innovative thermal management
The efficiency of the battery-powered tractor is increased by a completely new, energy-efficient type of thermal management. A regulated, electrical heat pump performs the task of air conditioning the cab as well as the battery and electronics. Energy management, including the tractor’s battery information, can be monitored via smartphone. In addition, comfort functions, such as pre-heating in winter or air conditioning in summer, can be easily controlled in advance when connected to the mains supply.
Benefits and applications
The battery-powered tractor can significantly reduce CO2 emissions. If renewable energy generated on the farm is used, the machine can be operated with a net zero carbon footprint and very cost-efficiently. Maintenance work and costs are reduced, for filter and oil as well as many components involved in conventional technology are no longer needed. Consumables such as engine oil, AdBlue or diesel are a thing of the past.
The Fendt e100 Vario is low-maintenance, energy-efficient, quiet and emissions-free. Regardless of whether it is used in a stable, on a farm, in the forest, or by local councils, the flexible concept brings benefits.
The power needed to operate the tractor can be supplied by renewable energies, such as biogas, solar power, or wind power, therefore making a significant contribution to combating climate change. At the same time, the high-capacity battery can store excess power and feed it back into the grid.
For local councils, there really is no better option than this battery-powered compact tractor. Thanks to its quiet and emissions-free operation, the Fendt e100 Vario can be used for a wide variety of applications in urban developments and residential areas.
The Fendt e100 Vario will be used for the first time in 2018 in limited numbers, initially on selected farms and in local municipalities.
