Gold for Deere transmission

By: Andrew Hobbs

Date: 24.10.2019

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The transmission developed with Joskin for John Deere’s 8R large tractor range is Agritechnica’s top innovation for 2019

John Deere and Joskin Group won a gold medal in the Agritechnica Innovation Awards

John Deere has won the only gold medal for innovation awarded ahead of the Agritechnica expo, to be held in Hannover, Germany from November 10-16.

Developed in Germany for use on its 8R large tractor range, the eAutoPower transmission uses two electric motors as a continuously variable actuator – designed to not only supply the drive of the tractor, but also providing up to 100kW of electric power for external consumption.

Another 39 innovations were recognised with a silver medal – including three more from John Deere and some from Agco, CNH Industrial and Lemken among others. Read about the winners here.

The system is the first continuously variable transmission with a split between electrical and mechanical operations, as well as allowing for the hydro unit, for the pump and motor, to be completely dispensed with.

While step-less transmissions with a hydrostatic-mechanical power split have been used in agricultural tractors for over 20 years, up until now an additional generator has also been needed for electric drives with a higher power requirement - such as John Deere electric drive planting units.

This electrical integration results in improved transmission efficiencies and reduced maintenance costs, the Agritechnica judges say, with the surplus power flows generated at certain operating points able to be used to improve overall efficiency.

Deere has capitalised on this by teaming with Joskin, which collaborated with the company to develop a slurry tanker with two electric drive axles.

"The results in practical use include, among other things, higher traction, reduced slip and improved track guidance on side slopes," the judges say.

John Deere’s Australian arm has confirmed local dealers will be advised of a production date for the eAutopower transmission system in coming months.

The Agritechnica Innovation Awards are judged by a panel of independent panel of agricultural scientists, researchers, consultants and primary producers appointed by the DLG (German Agricultural Society).