Engine builder Deutz is ready to incorporate electric and hybrid engines into construction and farm equipment. Nevertheless Deutz is convinced that diesel engines will remain the only option for heavy-duty traction. Manitou, manufacturer of telehandlers, is the first one to use the so-called E-Deutz hybrid engines.
Deutz made its entrance into the market for electric and hybrid engines public during a spectacular event, called Electrip, last week in Cologne, Germany. Investors, journalists and future clients were invited to witness the offical launch of electric and hybrid engine technology by Deutz.
The company estimates that in 5 years from now electric and hybrid engines will have a market share of 5 to 10%. Historically Deutz is one of the largest suppliers of diesel engines for agriculture and construction use. Its engines can be found in – amongst other brands – machines made by Fendt, Deutz-Fahr, Manitou and – back in the day – Renault.
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In order to acquire the knowledge and expertise in the field of electric engine technology and battery management, Deutz invested € 70 million in the take-over of Torqeedo in 2017. With this take-over Deutz is, it says, “buying 5 years worth of development time”.
Torqeedo leads the market for electric ship engines in the power range of 0,5 to 100 kW (136 hp). Torqeedo was founded in 2005 and employs 150 people. 80.000 of its systems are being used in shipping worldwide, turnover in 2017 amounted to € 25 million.
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Deutz’ and Torqeedo’s engineers have in a short period of time developed a modular programme for hybrid drive, called E-Deutz. Depending on its application the most fitting diesel engine, electric engine and battery can be combined within this modular system. E-Deutz also offers 100% electric drive.
Manitou is the first manufacturer to use E-Deutz drive components. Its first prototypes (1 fully electric, 1 hybrid) have been completed. The date of the market launch is not yet known.
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