For the first time in the 150-200 hp class, Fendt is presenting a compact and manoeuvrable 4-cylinder 600 Vario tractor, with high performance and payload at a low power-to-weight ratio and central tyre inflation system from the factory. An electronic system architecture that grows with the customer, offers the full scope of FendtONE onboard and offboard.
With four models (Fendt 614 Vario, 616 Vario, 618 Vario and Fendt 620 Vario), the new series occupies the from 149 to 209 hp (110 – 154 kW) power range according to ECE R120. For the first time, Fendt DynamicPerformance (DP) added-performance concept is available for all models in the 600 series. DP releases up to 15 hp of additional performance on each model via demand-based control exactly when it is needed. For example, the top model Fendt 620 Vario achieves a maximum output of up to 224 hp thanks to DP. The extra power concept is not tied to driving speed or special operating tasks. It functions purely dynamically – even when carrying out stationary PTO work or, depending on the operating conditions, during tillage.
Designed for global requirements, the development of the Fendt 600 Vario focused on a flexible, manoeuvrable and powerful overall package. The Fendt 600 Vario is characterised by a low power-to-weight ratio with a high power range, manoeuvrability as well as a high payload and a drive concept that combines permanent traction, soil protection and low wear for the first time. In addition, there is the optional 60-inch track width for row-crop use and optimum conditions for front loader use.
Exclusively for Fendt, the completely, newly developed 4-cylinder 5 litre AGCO Power CORE50 engine enters the market with the Fendt 600 Vario series. Exhaust gas after-treatment takes place via a diesel oxidation catalytic converter (DOC), diesel particulate filter (DPF) and with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) without exhaust gas recirculation. It meets all required emission standards worldwide. In Europe, this is the Stage V emissions standard. The CORE50 engine is also prepared for alternative fuels, such as HVO, to operate with lower CO2 emissions in future. There are also maintenance-free hydraulic tappets built into the engine. The first engine oil service occurs at 500 h, so the initial 50 h interval has been omitted. The newly developed, single-stage Fendt VarioDrive transmission is made up of the engine and the matching VarioDrive drive train.
Fendt VarioDrive refers to a completely new generation of continuously variable transmission technology. The foundation is the single-stage drive train with independent control of the front and rear axles. The transmission continuously measures the slip on all four wheels and sensitively regulates the power output. For the first time, Fendt VarioDrive combines the four key functions of maximum tractive force, simultaneous ground protection with minimum wear and manoeuvrability. Dynamic control prevents wheel slip, with maximum traction regardless of the surface. The drive train eliminates the need for manual switching when changing between field and road operations. In this way, VarioDrive automatically combines maximum tractive force, high ground protection on any surface without distortion, loss of performance or tyre wear.
High variance for global requirements
Numerous tyre options are available for the Fendt 600 Vario up to a diameter of 1,950 mm at the rear. The standard equipment of the Fendt 620 Vario model includes 650/65 R42 tyres.
The 60-inch gauge is common in North America, Australia and South Africa. Row crop farming is common in these areas. For the first time in this performance class, Fendt is offering the Fendt 600 Vario as a 60-inch (row-crop) version for all models in the series. For row-crop use, both single and twin tyres are available from the factory. The narrow stub axle with an external width of 2.50 m is also becoming increasingly important in Europe due to mechanical weed control, flexible track selection and dual tyres. Equipment for mechanical weed control now places high demands on the tractor. The new duo wheel hub is a coupling system for dual wheels that enables the transmission of higher forces. With the duo wheel hub, power is transmitted safely via the axles and no longer via the rims. In addition, there is the flexible track selection in single mode and the combined use of the central tyre inflation system on the entire twin system. The track width adjustment at the front and rear is conveniently carried out via so-called spacers (intermediate pieces).
More details of the Fendt 600 Vario will follow shortly. The new tractor will be on display during the upcoming Agritechnica tradeshow and can be ordered onwards, with series production starting in Summer 2024.