Battery-powered tractor the way to go, say manufacturers

The Fendt e100 Vario is the first practical, battery-powered tractor which can be used in normal operation for a full working day without the need to recharge, claims the AGCO/ Fendt tractor manufacturer.

Their claims are backed up by an Agritechnica 2017 silver medal winner for innovation awarded by a judging panel of independent scientists, researchers, farmers and consultants.

The Fendt e100 Vario can be used with existing equipment and attachments, but is also equipped to reap the benefits of using electrical implements.

This battery-powered tractor is a world first, using the powertrain of a 50kW Vario model, but replacing the combustion engine, the exhaust, air and fuel systems and the radiator, with a battery block, a compact electric motor, and the necessary electric control system.

Innovation judges say the 100kWh, high-voltage battery charges quickly, and stores enough power to work for four hours at an average workload.

They say the exhaust-free and very quiet machine is ideal for use in buildings, but also for transport work in cities.

Many agricultural enterprises around the world generate power from renewable sources (such as biogas, solar power, or wind power), which is even more financially attractive if used on the farm itself.

This tractor’s battery pack can also serve as intermediate storage for farm-generated power, before it is fed back into the grid.

The 650 volt high-capacity lithium-ion battery is charged either with 400 volts and up to 22 kW via a standard outdoor socket, or by a supercharging option with direct voltage.

With a standard plug, the battery can be recharged up to 80% in 40 minutes.

The electric tractor has two 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. Safety is guaranteed by an insulated design and continuous, electronic system monitoring.

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 heating in winter or air conditioning in summer, can be easily controlled in advance.

If renewable energy generated on the farm is used, the machine can be operated with a net, zero-carbon footprint, very cost-efficiently.

Maintenance work and costs are reduced, because the fuel and additive, and filter and oil, as well as many other components involved in conventional technology, are no longer needed.

The Fendt e100 Vario will be used for the first time in 2018 in limited numbers, initially on selected farms and in local municipalities.