John Deere presents hybrid and electric options

John Deere 145X-Tier E-Power excavator concept. (Photo: John Deere)

John Deere is showcasing both its latest E-Drive hybrid construction machines and its E-Power concept vehicles at the ConExpo-CON/AGG exhibition in Las Vegas, US. 

The company’s alternative power equipment options, which include the 145 X-Tier E-Power excavator concept machine, have been designed to offer high levels of productivity and to be more environmentally friendly. They are being exhibited at the stand of parent company Wirtgen alongside machines from its Kleemann, Hamm and Vogele brands. 

Ryan Campbell, president, Worldwide Construction & Forestry and Power Systems, said, “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.

“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.”

Aiming to “meet the diverse needs of customers”, John Deere’s E-Drive hybrid models feature an electrified drivetrain with an engine as the primary power source and recently upgraded powertrain components that provide a longer lifespan than previous versions. 

Among them is the 850 X-Tier dozer and the 644 X-Tier wheeled loader - an evolution of the 644K model introduced in 2013, which incorporates the combined E-Drive and Power Shift transmission system for better fuel economy.  Also on display is the 744 X-Tier E-Drive wheeled loader. The model is fitted with an electric variable transmission for improved performance with increased fuel efficiency. 

According to John Deere, its E-Drive machines offer “stronger pushing power on the job than traditional models”.

Visitors to John Deere’s stand can also see the manufacturer’s E-Power machines, which are said to provide “lower daily operating costs, lower jobsite noise, and zero tailpipe emissions.”

E-Power machine line-up comprises the 145 X-Tier E-Power concept excavator model, the 244 X-Tier E-Power compact wheeled loader and the 310 X-Tier backhoe loader.

First tested and showcased in 2021, John Deere’s 310 X-Tier backhoe us currently due to enter the next phase of development later this year, and the company says it has big plans to increase its environmentally friendly offering.

John Deere 310X-Tier E-Power backhoe. (Photo: John Deere)

“As a leader in the construction industry, John Deere is committed to helping decrease contributions to climate change and is uniquely positioned to deliver both economic and sustainable value to its customers through advanced technology and solutions,” said Campbell.

“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, starting with the nine electric or hybrid electric John Deere and Wirtgen Group machines on display at this year’s CONEXPO/CON-AGG.”