POWERTRAIN
The new ZF Terra+ generator module integrates a 50 or 70 kW electric motor
in the transmission housing with no additional space requirement. The system
offers another step toward ag tractor electrification, the company said.
COMBINING MECHANICAL
AND ELECTRIC
ZF develops systems that move another step toward ag tractor electrification
Global powertrain component specialist ZF has developed a new continuously variable
transmission (CVT) for agricultural
tractors. The ZF Terramatic transmission range is designed to combine the
advantages of the company’s existing
Eccom and S-Matic series of CVTs
while offering additional efficiency
and simpler maintenance.
The new range is designed for tractors with self-supporting transmission
housings, and their modular design concept allows it to be matched to a variety
of engine models, the company said.
The rear axle interface is equivalent to
that of the ZF T-7000 transmission.
The transmission’s hydrostatic unit
incorporates a swashplate pump and
bent axis hydraulic motor. All Terramatic
units are equipped with an onboard
pre-wired electronic control unit.
ZF said the Terramatic units can
all be serviced through a cover
plate that holds the hydrostatic unit
inside and allows access of major
subassemblies without dismantling
the tractor.
In a nod toward the future, ZF
said the new transmissions are
hybrid ready, due to the possibility
of integrating the new ZF Terra+
generator module. The system is
based on an electric motor avail-
able in two sizes: 50 or 70 kW con-
tinuous output power in generator
mode; and 85 and 120 kW short-
term boost power. Depending on
the application, the electric motor
section has a neutral installation
space claim, as it is fully integrated
in the transmission. This also allows
for ealier integration of a separat-
ing clutch for the decoupling of the
generator/hybrid module from the
