Page 18 - Vol.37-No.1 issue

AGRICULTURE MACHINERY

JOHN DEERE JOINT TESTS ITS FIRST ELECTRIC-

POWERED BACKHOE WITH NATIONAL GRID

John Deere, a leading manufacturer
of construction equipment, and Nation-
al Grid, an electricity, natural gas, and
clean energy delivery company serving
more than 20 million people throughout
the Northeast, will joint test an electric
backhoe concept. The John Deere devel-
oped, battery-powered, electric vehicle
design – referred to as E-Power – will
target the ease of operation and perfor-
mance level of the diesel-powered, 100
HP 310L Backhoe. The design is intend-
ed to provide substantially lower daily
operating costs, lower jobsite noise, en-
hanced machine reliability, and zero tail-
pipe emissions.
“We are excited to work with National
Grid, a leader in promoting clean ener-
gy solutions, to test the John Deere elec-
tric backhoe design in real-world condi- ed to lead to subsequent electrification Khan, President, National Grid, US. “We
tions,” said Jason Daly, global director, testing and design refinement.” are excited to work with John Deere to
production systems, technology and The testing period will enable National take an important step in electrifying our
marketing, John Deere. “John Deere is Grid to expand its use of electric equip- company vehicles, which could be revo-
committed to developing innovative, ro- ment on jobsites, reaffirming its commit- lutionary for our industry. Decarbonizing
bustly tested, and reliable equipment for ment to leading the industry in the use of transportation remains a challenge in
our customers, unlocking measurable clean and resilient energy solutions. the journey to net zero and we’re hope-
value through the incorporation of smart “National Grid is one of only two en- ful that bringing on more electrified
technology solutions in our machines. ergy companies in the US to add elec- heavy-duty vehicles and equipment will
This project is another stepping stone in tric backhoes to their fleets,” said Badar help us make significant progress.”
our backhoe innovation journey, intend-
Circle 20 on enquiry card
KUBOTA UNVEILS LATEST VERSION OF B1

COMPACT TRACTOR

Kubota has unveiled the latest version is available with a choice of 18 and 24hp This is also a tractor that’s a breeze
of the highly popular B1 compact tractor, proven Kubota E-TVCS engines. The to maintain – the bonnet lifts clear, side
featuring a new development that will straightforward mechanical transmis- guards come away and the front grille
make it even more versatile. sion offers three forward speeds in each comes out to give all-round access to the
This adaptable little workhorse is in- of three ranges while highly effective engine.
creasingly finding favor with specialist power steering improves maneuverabil- “The mid-ROPS options will make the
fruit and vegetable growers, smallhold- ity in tight yards and sheds. Bevel gear B1 series, which already punches above
ers, and nurseries and now benefits from four-wheel drive keeps productivity up its weight, a real favorite for specialist
an all-new folding mid-ROPS option. in tough conditions, its design also en- farming or anyone who needs versatile
The ROPS is positioned in front of the hancing ground clearance. power in a compact package,” com-
operator platform, providing essential There’s no end to the tasks that can be ments Phil Catley, Kubota Key Account,
protection for fieldwork, but folding accomplished with the B1 series, which and Groundcare Product Manager.
flush with the bonnet when working in has a category 1 rear linkage and op-
a height-restricted situation. This reduc- tional mid-PTO for a mower deck on the
es the overall height of the tractor to a 18hp B1181 model. The LA213 front load-
maximum of 1.41m, ideal for accessing er can also be specified for the B1181 to
polytunnels, greenhouses, or low build- tackle materials handling jobs around
ings. It also avoids any interference with the farm or nursery.
rear-mounted implements, and folding Operator comfort is ensured by a
is a simple matter of removing two pins roomy platform with easy access when
at the base of the ROPS frame. frequent climbing on and off a tractor
A number of other improvements have is required. There’s a fully rubber cov-
been made to the B1 series tractor, which ered deck, clear control layout with lever
guides, and handy cup holder.
16 Vol. 37 No. 1 Circle 21 on enquiry card