STEYR Hybrid Drivetrain Konzept

Evolution throughout innovation

Top-efficiency ahead

STEYR unveils the latest stage in its ‘KONZEPT’ development, with the release of details concerning the Hybrid Drivetrain Konzept following on from the display of the original ‘KONZEPT’ tractor at Agritechnica 2019.

The Hybrid Drivetrain Konzept has been created from the diesel/electric hybrid knowledge gained following the development of the STEYR KONZEPT tractor.

It shows where we are heading, especially in terms of transmissions and features which may find their way into tractors in the future: exactly as STEYR has been doing throughout its 75-year history.

The benefits of an electric drive system

A key research focus has been on the benefits of electric drive systems with the potential to power a lightweight, high-horsepower tractor delivering fuel consumption advantages averaging 8%. These benefits also mean new levels of driving experience and performance.

It eases the return to the top travel speed, which we can now achieve up to 25% faster than with a conventional transmission. It is also much more efficient at retaining as much as possible of its maximum travel speed when driving uphill. This is mainly driven by applying super capacitor technology, which enables us to boost the tractor’s power when there is greater demand. The same is true when working in the field with implements to cover peak load in high draft applications.

Reduced turning radius, faster turns

Compared to a conventional tractor of the same wheelbase fitted with the same tires, the turning radius is cut by around 1.5 metres, which is especially beneficial during headland turns.

Electric power for implements, more productivity

Transferring electrical power to the implement wheels can help the tractor-implement combination as a whole to gain additional traction, and potentially allow a bigger implement to be used than might otherwise be possible with the size of tractor.

Tractive efficiency, minimized front axle slippage

With differential front/rear torque vectoring, we are able to direct torque to the front or rear as required and enable both axles to work at their optimum. This means we have created a variable, on-demand 4wd system. This minimises the usual front axle slippage seen on a conventional tractor working with a soil-engaging implement – and as a result it reduces fuel consumption and soil damage too.

Brake retarder, maximum safety and reduced brake wear

This enables the tractor to maintain a constant speed when travelling downhill. In fact, the brake retarder, in combination with S-Brake, can significantly reduce the need for braking, even with a heavy load on a trailer. Benefits include reduced brake wear and enhanced safety. Furthermore, the brake retarder is used to recharge the super capacitors mentioned before.