A new engine architecture, concept immersion-cooled Kreisel Electric (Kreisel) batteries, and a remote monitoring and diagnostic services solution for OEM equipment were just a few highlights of the John Deere Power Systems (JDPS) booth at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023.
Over 139,000 industry experts from across the globe came together in Las Vegas to explore the future of the construction industry. JDPS joined John Deere Construction and Forestry in a shared booth space to showcase its latest powertrain innovations.
"We're looking at a sustainable future. Within that future we know it is going to take multiple options," said Nick Block, global director of sales and marketing for John Deere Power Systems. "It starts with making our current engine designs more efficient as well as providing next generation engines that deliver more sustainability for [our customers]."
An up-close look at industrial engine advancements
For the first time ever, the three flagship engines of the Next Generation Engine (NGE) lineup were on display at CONEXPO-CON/AGG. This powerful, high-performance engine lineup features the JD4, JD14, and JD18.
When developing its NGE platform, JDPS consulted leading equipment manufacturers to learn more about which engine improvements were at the top of their lists. The result is a new engine architecture that leverages the best of John Deere technologies to deliver new levels of reliability, durability, flexibility, and serviceability along with a lower operating cost for a wide array of heavy-duty applications.
The latest addition to the Next Generation Engine product portfolio is the JD4, which made its debut at CONEXPO-CON/AGG. Ideal for industrial applications, the JD4 offers improved engine reliability and uptime and increased auxiliary power. The JD4 will be compatible with EU Stage IIIA — Stage V emissions standards through common interfaces. The engine is low-NOx-ready with planned external cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a single overhead cam shaft valve train. The JD4 engine is also compliant with U.S. EPA Final Tier 4 and EU Stage V with no EGR.
"What we're focused on showcasing with our engine lineup in addition to our batteries is what we're doing to prepare customers for the future," Block said.
We're looking at a sustainable future. Within that future we know it is going to take multiple options. It starts with making our current engine designs more efficient as well as providing next generation engines that deliver more sustainability for [our customers].
An electric presence
Along with its NGE lineup, JDPS also had new concept Kreisel batteries on display at the show. In 2022, John Deere acquired majority ownership in Austrian battery technology provider Kreisel. Since then, John Deere and Kreisel have worked together to expand the production capacity of Kreisel and accelerate the development of the company's innovative battery technology.
In addition to the 63 kWh Kreisel KBP63 battery that was displayed at bauma 2022, three new concept Kreisel batteries were on display at CONEXPO-CON/AGG, including 20 kWh and 40 kWh power options.
"The 63 kilowatt hour is a great starting point, but it is quite large and some form factors of vehicles need more packaging flexibility," said Preston Moore, electrification product manager for John Deere Power Systems. "That's where these other form factors come in. Being able to fit the battery to the vehicle, get the packaging, and ultimately get the right capacity of battery onboard equates to the right amount of runtime for the customer."
John Deere also had a number of concept charging platforms on display to illustrate the company's ongoing commitment to bringing versatile charging solutions to market. Just as important as building out a diversified battery portfolio is developing a reliable charging ecosystem that can be scaled and sized to meet operating conditions on a variety of job sites.
"We will come out with a full ecosystem and a full suite of charging solutions for our customers," Moore said.
Learn more about the electric future of John Deere and the innovative battery technology of Kreisel.
Making connections
Show attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the John Deere telematics solution for OEM equipment, John Deere Connected Support™.
Enabled through John Deere remote monitoring and diagnostic services, John Deere Connected Support helps to keep OEM equipment in peak operating condition through proactive equipment health monitoring: triggering predictive alerts to dealers so they can manage parts replacement and schedule maintenance to improve customers'; uptime. With no subscription fees, and backed by a robust service network of more than 9,000 service dealer locations across the globe, John Deere Connected Support builds on the company's commitment to superior customer support and service.
To see a full recap of the latest powertrain innovations that were on display at CONEXPO-CON/AGG, check out this video