In September 2017, AGCO/Fendt introduced the Fendt e100 Vario, the first practical battery-powered tractor that, under normal workloads, can be used for a full working day without recharging. The relentless demand for this e-tractor from many towns and districts shows the enormous interest in alternative types of drive. At Fendt's open-air stand, FGL. 810/5, the Fendt e100 Vario is showcased as a set of equipment for winter work.
The reduction of dust particles and CO2 emissions is central to all our futures, and agriculture is no exception. There is always work to be done, including maintaining green spaces, parks and paths, as well as cleaning and winter services; we just need to do it emission-free and as silent as possible.
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 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. 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.
At IFAT 2018, the Fendt e100 Vario is demonstrated with a Vario snow plough at the front and a Kugelmann D 301 three-point spreader.
The spreader has a 300-litre filling capacity and is electrically powered through the 700 volt interface.
