30 Years of Fendt Vario Transmission
30 Years of Fendt Vario Transmission
A success story about pioneering spirit, courage and passion for technology
In the 1990s, Fendt revolutionised tractor construction with drive technology that will change agriculture forever: the Vario transmission. In 1995, the Favorit 926 Vario was presented as the world's first large tractor with steplessly variable drive. This innovation creates a global success story with many significant milestones. Today, the steplessly variable transmission is considered the standard in the industry. But the original from Fendt
is still the original. Here is where we tell its story.
is still the original. Here is where we tell its story.
Awakening
Awakening
From a bold vision to a milestone in agricultural technology
Even though we are celebrating the 30th anniversary of Vario technology today, its history began decades earlier. The idea of a steplessly variable transmission arose in the 1950s with the “System Allgaier project”.
Fendt design engineer Hans Marschall drew inspiration from this and was passionately committed to the further development of this vision. However, the original hydrostatic concept with internal power branching proved to be unsuitable for tractor construction and was discontinued in 1967.
Marschall, however, did not let go of the vision of steplessness, and in 1972 he found decisive impulses at the Hannover Messe through slanted axis units with a large pivot angle and high pressures. On his own initiative, he developed initial concepts further and later convinced Fendt decision-makers, above all Dr. Hermann Fendt and later Prof. Stroppel, of the idea. At the beginning of the 1980s, the Tristat prototype was the first functional Vario transmission to deliver promising results.
In 1987, a small development group with three Fendt employees began to bring the concept to series production. The three faced the great challenge of developing completely new hydrostats, valve and control technology. At this time, there are simply no suitable components on the market. Instead of many mechanical elements, the team now relied on high-performance hydrostats with high efficiencies, which were further developed together with a partner and achieved up to 97 % efficiency. At the same time, problems such as noise generation were solved and new control concepts were integrated that enable comfortable driving.
After successful test bench trials, a top-secret test was initially carried out at a large-scale company in the Czech Republic, until 1995 at AGRITECHNICA the 260 hp Fendt Favorit 926 Vario was presented as the first series tractor with the ML 200 stepless transmission.
The first milestone in our success story. And a model, which caused quite a stir from the beginning...
Fendt design engineer Hans Marschall drew inspiration from this and was passionately committed to the further development of this vision. However, the original hydrostatic concept with internal power branching proved to be unsuitable for tractor construction and was discontinued in 1967.
Marschall, however, did not let go of the vision of steplessness, and in 1972 he found decisive impulses at the Hannover Messe through slanted axis units with a large pivot angle and high pressures. On his own initiative, he developed initial concepts further and later convinced Fendt decision-makers, above all Dr. Hermann Fendt and later Prof. Stroppel, of the idea. At the beginning of the 1980s, the Tristat prototype was the first functional Vario transmission to deliver promising results.
In 1987, a small development group with three Fendt employees began to bring the concept to series production. The three faced the great challenge of developing completely new hydrostats, valve and control technology. At this time, there are simply no suitable components on the market. Instead of many mechanical elements, the team now relied on high-performance hydrostats with high efficiencies, which were further developed together with a partner and achieved up to 97 % efficiency. At the same time, problems such as noise generation were solved and new control concepts were integrated that enable comfortable driving.
After successful test bench trials, a top-secret test was initially carried out at a large-scale company in the Czech Republic, until 1995 at AGRITECHNICA the 260 hp Fendt Favorit 926 Vario was presented as the first series tractor with the ML 200 stepless transmission.
The first milestone in our success story. And a model, which caused quite a stir from the beginning...
1995
Fendt Favorit 926 Vario: The first series tractor with steplessly variable transmission
It looks good. With its edged hood, striking green side panels and large-scale cab with panoramic panes, the Favorit 926 Vario characterised the typical Fendt design of the late 1990s. The first generation came with a steplessly variable transmission, powerful MAN engine and suspended front axle for completely new driving comfort.
The heart beats to the rhythm of Vario:
- Type: MAN 6-cylinder in-line engine with turbocharger and intercooler
- Cubic capacity: 6.87 litres
- Performance: approx. 260 hp (192 kW) at 2,250 rpm
- Max. torque: approx. 1,090 Nm at 1,400 rpm
- Fuel tank: about 370 litres of diesel
- Transmission: stepless Fendt Vario transmission (power branched, 2 driving ranges)
- Drive: four-wheel drive (4WD) with switchable front-wheel drive
- Maximum speed: 50 km/h
- Turning circle: approx. 13 m
First appearance at AGRITECHNICA 1995
With its first appearance at AGRITECHNICA in 1995, the Favorit caused an enormous sensation and quickly became a crowd magnet at the trade fair. Until this time, it had never been so crowded at the Marktoberdorf stand. Trade press and visitors – and also the previously sceptical competition – were impressed by the completely new, steplessly variable Vario transmission. Everyone could feel that a piece of history of agricultural technology was being written here.
Innovation
Innovation
The market success began with the series production of the 926 – numerous milestones to follow
When the first 900 Varios were on the fields in 1996, the response was overwhelming. Farmers were enthusiastic about the new lightness and efficiency of the stepless driving, while the trade press talked about a milestone. Competitors who initially ridiculed the concept, or at least viewed it sceptically, now had to quickly follow suit and initiated their own developments. The success of the 900 series lead to further series and accelerated the market penetration of the Vario technology. It soon became the industry standard. But Fendt kept on delivering – with real Vario originals that raised the bar year after year. And they were always surprising.
Fendt 400 Vario
Fendt 400 Vario
The four-cylinder models take off
In 1999, the 400 series marked the introduction of Vario technology into lower power ranges with the ML 90 Vario transmission. This brought modern features such as joystick control and front axle suspension to the four-cylinder 100-hp class. The developers based them on the 700 frame to efficiently use assembly, tools and design, which enabled a uniform operating concept across all series. Starting with the 409, 410 and 411 models, stronger variants such as 412 to 415 were successively added. The 415 was considered the top model from 2006 and is known as “the GTI among tractors”. The unique driving comfort and the simple, intuitive usability also convinced older farmers. In the meantime, the 400 had successfully established itself in the performance class up to 150 hp and is now considered a cult model. In 1999, Fendt has now achieved 3 complete Vario series in a row – another milestone.
1999
Fendt 900 Vario Gen2
Fendt 900 Vario Gen2
From Bavaria to the Big Fields - Vario conquers America
At the end of the 1990s, the Fendt 900 Vario Gen2 ventured the first step across the Atlantic and brought German engineering from Marktoberdorf to the farms of North America. Among the conditions there – long working hours, large areas and changing soil conditions – the new technology offered American and Canadian farmers clear advantages in terms of fuel consumption, but also in handling. The rims of the Fendt 400, 700 and 900 Vario models were initially painted silver for the new sales regions, because according to customer feedback, this colour fit better with the North American market. In addition, this uniform silver coating initially also facilitated the joint storage of twin tyres of AGCO's sister brands. Only in 2007, were the Fendt typical "terra red" rims introduced in North-America. The farmers were impressed by quality and technical superiority of the machines. But the right market penetration would take some time. Only with the Row Crop capability with gauges of 60 inches could the Vario tractors start to make their real advance in the mid-2000s on the American continent.
Fendt Evo
Fendt Evo
The pioneering spirit strikes again
A system vehicle with steplessly variable drive – that was the dream of some experts from the Fendt Sales and Fendt Agricultural Technology departments. And so the concept study Evo 828, which was initially developed as top secret, was presented at AGRITECHNICA. As the successor to the Xylon and with technology from the 700 Vario series, it combined stepless drive with flexible system rooms, an extended frame construction and the comfortable two-person cab, which made it particularly interesting for the municipal sector. At the trade fair, the Evo proved popular with features such as a top speed of 65 km/h and four-wheel brakes. A customer survey at the time showed interest, but the rapid development of standard tractors and changing conditions meant that the concept had no chance on the market. What remained was a milestone in Fendt's history of innovation and a permanent place for the Evo among the Vario highlights.
Fendt 936 Vario
Fendt 936 Vario
Black Beauty redefines real size
Almost exactly ten years after the introduction of the world's strongest standard tractor at the time, a new drumbeat followed. And what drumbeat it was. The Fendt 936 Vario became an absolute eye-catcher as “Black Beauty” at the AGRITECHNICA 2005. A bold black design, celebrated by customers and press and awarded with design awards. Technically, it set new standards with 360 hp, in-wheel suspension, 60 km/h top speed, new cab and giant tyres. Customers and contractors were enthusiastic about tractive power, agility and transport strength. The 936 Vario was not just opening the door to international markets such as North America. The public attention given to Black Beauty remains unforgettable – whether as an eye-catcher on the streets of Hamburg, in a test with Auto-Bild magazine alongside sports cars, or with a festival bonnet full of autographs in Wacken.
2005
Fendt 300 Vario
Fendt 300 Vario
Stepless in the compact mid-range
The Fendt 300 Vario continued the successful 300 series. The new series combined proven operating concepts with the single-stage Vario transmission, which was also being used in this performance class up to 120 hp for the first time. The 300 thus laid the foundation for steplessly variable Vario technology in lower power ranges. Initially, the models 309 to 312 were equipped with Deutz four-cylinder engines, later followed the 313 and Eco-Power generation with SCR technology and a modern operating concept. The 300 Vario was convincing with its high manoeuvrability and easy handling, which made it particularly popular in grassland and smaller farms. It was less popular with the workshops – simply because you encountered it far too rarely.
Fendt 820 Vario
Fendt 820 Vario
A compact powerhouse becomes a cult model
In 2006, the Fendt 820 Vario was presented as a top model and closed an important gap between the 700 series and the large tractors. With 205 hp in a compact design, it brought a completely new level of performance to the upper mid-range. With its own weight of only 7 tonnes, high payload and agility, it was particularly convincing for contractors and achieved up to 50% market share there. Under the bonnet was an efficient 5.7-litre Deutz engine with very low fuel consumption, combined with new operating concepts such as TMS (Tractor Management System) and VarioTronic with memory functions for implements and work processes. Despite criticism of the rather small cab, the 820 became a cult model, which was convincing with its reliability and high resale value – high prices are still paid today for used models.
2006
Fendt Trisix
Fendt Trisix
A giant on six wheels
In the meantime, the 50,000th Vario tractor was rolled off the production line in Marktoberdorf – a real celebration and occasion for a white special model of the 312. The greater sensation, however, was caused by a study of impressive calibre: the Trisix Vario. Three axles, six wheels and more than 500 hp caused a sensation at AGRITECHNICA 2007 and amazed the trade press and the public. Designed to deliver enormous performance with minimum ground pressure, it combined two coupled Vario gearboxes, innovative axles and a new type of tyre pressure regulation system. With the 1,360 litre diesel tank and an unladen weight of 19 tonnes, the giant was defining new standards in terms of size, efficiency and endurance. The Trisix was not only a technical highlight, but also inspired the later Fendt 1000 series, which took on many of the revolutionary components. For Fendt fans and connoisseurs, it remains an impressive symbol of innovation, performance and visionary design.
2007
100,000 Vario
100,000 Vario
A milestone in gold
In 2009, despite the economic crisis, Fendt presented a special eye-catcher at AGRITECHNICA: the Fendt 211 Vario, which was presented in a special golden finish. The model marks two milestones: As the 100,000th Vario tractor, it was a true anniversary model. At the same time, the 200 series was the last to be completely converted to the steplessly variable Vario transmission. In this way, Fendt was finally saying goodbye to shift and synchronous transmissions and was fully relying on Vario. Especially for the Alpine region, the 200 Vario proved to be a successful model: easy to handle, manoeuvrable, with a powerful three-cylinder common rail engine and easy operation. With this compact but all the more important milestone, Fendt had succeeded in switching the entire fleet to steplessly variable transmissions within just 14 years – a standard in the industry that is still unique today.
2009
Fendt 200 V Vario
Fendt 200 V Vario
Stepless driving conquers the vineyards
The development of a narrow-gauge tractor with Vario transmission was a real challenge – after all, the extremely narrow design leaves little room for technology. With the smallest ML 70 Vario transmission, the ingenious solution was found. The extremely short design of the ML 70 enabled a level cab floor without transmission tunnels. This made getting started easier and at the same time increased driving comfort to a whole new level. Winegrowers in particular also appreciated the increased safety and efficiency on steep slopes, as they could work without having to shift gears or interrupt the power transfer. With the new operating concept on the right armrest, the narrow-gauge tractor offered the same comfort as large tractors. In 2009, the model celebrated its premiere at SIMA in Paris, causing great enthusiasm and receiving the first of numerous awards. Customers from Italy even travelled specifically to secure chassis number 1.
Fendt 724 Vario
Fendt 724 Vario
The legendary powerhouse with panoramic cab
The next major milestones in terms of performance, visibility and efficiency were set by the completely redesigned Generation 4 of the 700 Varios. The VisioPlus cab continued offering an unrivalled panoramic view for all types of work. In addition, there was the performance increase of up to 240 hp in the top model 724 Vario. This included the SCR engine technology, which provided up to 10% diesel savings. The AdBlue injection saved 7% of the operating costs.
2011
Fendt 500 Vario
Fendt 500 Vario
A little one makes it big
The new plant in Marktoberdorf opened its doors in September 2012. A joyous occasion – especially because the first tractor that rolled off the assembly line was a very special one: the Fendt Vario 516 from the new Vario series. With 160 hp, it caused a direct sensation, as it competed as a four-cylinder against the established six-cylinder class. Thanks to revised combustion technology, electronic engine control and comfortable cab suspension, the 516 succeeded in achieving smooth running and noise levels like the six-cylinder engine. In practice, it was impressive with quiet running, driving comfort and efficiency, even at 50 km/h with reduced speed. As the “little brother of the 700”, the 500 brought modern large-scale tractor technologies to the mid class and thus became a successful model in Europe and beyond.
2012
Broad perspective
Broad perspective
Large machines conquer the fields with VarioDrive technology
A completely new generation of tractors was not only opening the next chapter in the success story of Fendt Vario. This generation was also opening the door to the world's largest markets. The new large tractors, equipped for the first time with the innovative VarioDrive drive, were built for worldwide use and were up to all challenges. The VarioDrive technology transfers full power to the ground, regardless of size or operating conditions. Customers, press and competitors see this as a turning point in the high-horsepower segment. With this strategy and full VarioDrive drive at the back, Fendt was gradually conquering the global market.
Fendt 1000 Vario
Fendt 1000 Vario
A giant conquers the world markets
With the introduction of the completely newly developed top series over 500 hp, Fendt was taking a step into a new dimension in standard tractors. Presented for the first time in 2014 at the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle, the “giant” immediately attracted worldwide attention. Technically, it brought a real revolution with the 12.4 litre six-cylinder MAN engine, new hydraulic system, revised chassis and the second generation of the Vario transmission with VarioDrive. Particularly challenging in the development of this series was the balance between European requirements and the needs of large companies in North and South America. A balancing act that the designers mastered with flying colours. At AGRITECHNICA 2015, the unmistakable 1050 Vario was a celebrated crowd magnet. It received numerous awards and quickly became – in the truest sense of the word – a fixture in international markets.
2014
Fendt 900 Vario Gen6
Fendt 900 Vario Gen6
Successful expansion of VarioDrive technology
With the introduction of the 900 Vario Gen6, the next large tractor would follow in 2020 and would close the gap between the previous 900 series and the big brother in terms of technology and performance. While the 1000 relied on maximum power, the more compact 900 scored with its versatility. The Gen6 not only runs on the latest VarioDrive technology, but also has the innovative FendtONE operating concept on board for the first time. This makes it not only a top performer over large areas, but also impressive in road transport and confined spaces with unprecedented agility. From the very beginning, the 900 Vario Gen6 has stood for future technology that perfectly combines power, precision and comfort.
2020
Fendt 700 Vario Gen7
Fendt 700 Vario Gen7
You dreamt it. We built it.
The Fendt 700 Vario Gen7 marks a major step in the further development of the popular Fendt series. For the first time, the 700 series with up to 300 hp reaches a completely new level of performance, thus moving closer to the large models without losing its manoeuvrability and versatility. With VarioDrive, FendtONE and state-of-the-art assistance systems, the Gen7 brings technologies from the top series to the medium performance class. For many customers, the versatile all-rounder with premium technology is a tailor-made dream tractor par excellence. It is the world's best-selling Fendt model and therefore not only a favourite of farmers, but also a strategically important heart of the Fendt fleet.
2022
Fendt 600 Vario
Fendt 600 Vario
A completely new series – naturally superior
The Fendt 600 Vario marks the entry into a new performance class with a four-cylinder engine between 150 and 200 hp. It complements the portfolio between the proven 500 and the globally successful 700. Farmers appreciate the combination of compactness, versatility and state-of-the-art technology on the 600, which makes it ideal for mixed farms, grassland and agriculture. This makes it not only a completely new model, but also a real milestone for the future of the middle tractor segment. The popularity of the 600 series was also evident at AGRITECHNICA 2023, where it won the “Farm Machine 2024” award in the mid-range category and also took home the “Audience Choice Award”. The combination of performance, comfort, efficient consumption values and modern technology makes the new addition naturally superior – and quickly a bestseller.
2023
Fendt e100 Vario
Fendt e100 Vario
The future drives steplessly electric
The Fendt e100 Vario is the first all-electric tractor to write history and marks an important milestone in the development of sustainable agricultural technology. It combines quiet, emission-free power with the well-known precision and performance that distinguishes a true Vario. With the electric series tractor, the very own Fendt pioneering spirit once again shows itself. It is almost symbolic of innovation, sustainability and the courage to break new ground. The trade press particularly praises the practicality and the forward-looking technology of the e100 Vario. Farmers and municipalities can also be quickly convinced by an environmentally friendly tractor that is both flexible and cost-efficient. Many see the e100 Vario not only as a technical innovation, but also as a symbol of progress and responsibility towards the next generation.
VarioDrive for all
VarioDrive for all
5 new series and the largest portfolio of tractors ever
With five new series and the largest tractor portfolio in Fendt's history, we are proud of 30 years of Vario. The heart of all current models is the VarioDrive, which continues the legendary Vario technology – a technology that has revolutionised the work of farmers like no other. What once began as a courageous idea is now more than just a transmission. Vario is a symbol of Fendt's innovative strength. An indispensable companion that makes everyday life in the fields easier, more precise and more efficient and is an indispensable part of modern agriculture. But the pioneering spirit does not end here: In the future, Vario technology will merge even more with digital intelligence, automation and sustainable drives. The 5 new Fendt Vario 2025 series not only represent diversity and innovation, but also the promise to support farmers in their daily work with state-of-the-art technology. A promise that endures – yesterday, today and tomorrow.
2025
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