Farm Tender

Fendt's battery powered Tractor

This idea won an innovation award at Agritechnica 2017, Hanover, Germany

Electric bikes and cars have increasingly arrived on the market, but the technology has not been available for commercial vehicles so far. This is attributed to the challenge of developing high-performance battery technology that suits the needs.

This battery-powered tractor is a world first and was developed to serve in a wide range of applications. Using the powertrain of a 50kW Vario model, it replaces the combustion engine, the exhaust, air and fuel systems and the radiator by a battery block, a compact electric motor and the necessary electric control system.

The 100kWh, high-voltage battery charges quickly and stores enough power to work for four hours at an average workload. An innovative thermal management system that comprises a heat pump ensures the cab temperature is controlled efficiently. The battery pack can also serve as intermediate storage for farm-generated power.

The modification does not affect the tractor’s suitability for taking on any type of implements. The exhaust-free and very quiet machine is ideal for use in buildings, but also for transport work in cities.