Tractor manufacturer Fendt has announced that it will finally begin production of its electric tractor, the Fendt e107V, in 2024. The company has made modifications to its factory in Germany to accommodate the production of the electric tractors, which will initially be available in limited numbers in Germany, Norway, and the Netherlands.
The Fendt e107V is a narrow-track tractor with an outer width of 107 centimeters. It is designed for use in vineyards, hence the ‘V’ in its name. The broader model, the 200P series, will not be released at this time, as Fendt believes that the narrow-track tractor is more practical and fuel-efficient for the intended market.
The electric tractor is powered by a 700-volt electric motor, with power options ranging from 50 kW to 66 kW. It features a Vario ML70 transmission and a lithium-ion battery pack located under the hood. The tractor can be charged using the same plugs as electric cars and has a range of approximately four to five hours on a single battery charge.
One interesting feature of the Fendt e107V is the ability to choose the power output of the electric motor. This allows users to tailor the tractor’s performance to their specific needs. The tractor can be charged using a fast charger, which can charge the battery from 20% to 80% in just 40 minutes, or a 22 kW alternating current charger, which takes four hours for a full recharge.
Despite being an electric tractor, the Fendt e107V retains the Vario transmission found in its diesel counterparts. This allows the electric motor to drive the four wheels, power take-offs, and hydraulics without the need for separate electric components. The tractor also features a start-stop system, which ensures that the electric motor only starts running when a driving direction is chosen.
Fendt has made significant improvements to the e107V compared to the prototype that was tested in 2019. The production model now uses certified components, making it compliant with all regulations. The driving experience of the electric tractor is similar to that of a diesel variant, with the main difference being the absence of the diesel engine rumble.
The introduction of the Fendt e107V marks a significant step forward in the adoption of electric tractors in the agricultural industry. While the initial production will be limited, it is expected that the demand for electric tractors will grow as farmers become more aware of the benefits they offer, such as lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact.
However, the higher price tag of the electric tractor, which is expected to be 50% to 100% more expensive than a standard diesel tractor, may be a deterrent for some farmers. It remains to be seen how quickly the market will adopt electric tractors and whether Fendt’s limited production will be able to meet the demand.
Overall, the Fendt e107V represents a significant milestone in the development of electric tractors and demonstrates Fendt’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the agricultural sector. As more farmers embrace the benefits of electric tractors, it is likely that other manufacturers will follow suit and introduce their own electric models in the coming years.