The 310 X-Tier E-Power backhoe
John Deere is working towards introducing more battery-electric and electric hybrid machinery and in the future the company will offer E-Power machines utilising battery solutions from Kreisel electric. Source: Timberbiz
“As we continue to introduce battery-electric and electric-hybrid solutions to the market, we aren’t just designing a new way to fuel your fleet. We’re also focusing on building an electric infrastructure through innovative and forward-thinking technology,” said Ryan Campbell, president, Worldwide Construction & Forestry and Power Systems.
“That means expanding our efforts to provide customers with optimal dealer support, jobsite data and charging solutions aimed to increase the electric presence in the construction space around the world.”
Offering a hybrid solution, E-Drive machines feature an electrified drivetrain with an engine as the primary power source. In addition, E-Drive machines enable better fuel economy, improved powertrain component life and stronger pushing power on the job than traditional models.
The John Deere electrification/hybrid journey began in 2013 with the introduction of the 644K Hybrid wheel loader, which has since evolved into today’s 644 X-Tier. The 644 X-Tier is notable for its robust performance with its combined E-Drive and Power Shift transmission system. In addition, the 944 X-Tier wheel loader is newly rebranded from the 944K Hybrid to align with the John Deere performance tiering strategy.
Other new E-Drive machines are the 850 X-Tier dozer which will accompany the 850 P-Tier model in the future.
The 744 X-Tier E-Drive wheel loader, features an electric variable transmission, provides improved performance with increased fuel efficiency.
In 2021, John Deere tested and showcased the 310 X-Tier E-Power electric backhoe. In 2023, the 310 X-Tier E-Power backhoe model will enter the next phase of development.
John Deere is also developing electrification infrastructure solutions to address the energy replenishment challenges faced by battery electric vehicles in off-road production environments.
A John Deere electrification ecosystem will offer a wide array of solutions to address needs for charging, data and connectivity, machine support, and financial services. The charging ecosystem will include a range of solutions for overnight and fast charging.
All John Deere machines and charging stations will use common automotive style charging connections, helping to simplify the re-charge process for electric equipment.
In addition, John Deere is developing new features, such as an Operations Centre specific to battery-electric equipment to help customers monitor usage remotely and manage work while charging their equipment with confidence and ease.
“By 2026, John Deere aims to offer its customers a variety of electric construction equipment solutions, including 20+ electric and hybrid- models, helping to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry,” Mr Campbell said.
