3 minute read
John Deere Power Systems: Nick Block, Director, Global Marketing & Sales
New technologies and control solutions will provide continued improvements in performance and emissions reduction capabilities.
responses provided by Nick Block, Director, Global Marketing & Sales, John Deere Power Systems
Diesel, Electric & Other Power Alternatives
How, if at all, do you see the role of diesel engines evolving in the coming years?
There are still many opportunities for continued advancements in diesel engines. From the technology side, we’ve leveraged new catalyst technologies and emissions control calibrations to enable the downsizing of aftertreatment. Our newest aftertreatment solutions deliver greater package flexibility and offer easier installation while providing significant reductions in size and weight. We will continue to focus on improving overall package size, reducing overall engine weight and integrating new generations of electronic control systems.
One trend that will continue to evolve in the next few years is less reliance on physical sensors. This is because engine control units continue to become more advanced and enable greater engine control and diagnostics performance. Furthermore, engines will become smarter and more capable, not only in terms of lower emissions or higher power, but by being more reliable to run in the way applications demand.
What alternative fuels do you foresee entering the heavy equipment industry in the next 5-10 years?
We believe biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel to be the most viable alternatives to diesel fuel for heavy-duty off-highway engines. John Deere engines operate efficiently using ultra-low sulfur diesel as well as biodiesel blends. It’s the right thing to do from a long-term economic standpoint, as well as environmental, energy-security and rural-development standpoints.
The primary advantages of both biodiesel and renewable diesel are their renewability. As renewable energy sources, biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel can help reduce dependence on petroleum imports. Biodiesel (B100) is nontoxic, biodegradable and suitable for sensitive environments.
In addition, we are exploring ethanol as another potential renewable fuel option for our off-highway customers. Ethanol enables up to a 40% reduction in net CO2 emissions from heavy-duty diesel engines. It is also widely available and can offer a high-efficiency, liquid alternative fuel option.
How will electrification—or other alternative energy/power systems— continue to advance in the heavy equipment industry?
John Deere is well-versed in the integration of electrical generators and/or motors, power electronics, and mechanical drivetrain interfaces. With more than 2 million operating hours of proven performance in the field, John Deere electric drivetrain components are available in multiple configurations to help OEMs implement electric and hybrid drive systems in their off-highway applications.
Implementing alternative power systems like drivetrain and electric solutions in off-highway equipment will depend on being able to optimize an overall power solution—balancing mechanical, hydraulic and electric power systems and cost. That is why we’ve focused on providing scalable, flexible and modular solutions to generate and deliver the variety of power solutions needed in off-highway applications.
Data, IoT & Connectivity
What will be the best use cases for the Internet of Things (IoT) and data in the coming years?
The John Deere Smart Industrial strategy is designed to unlock new value for customers and help them become more profitable and sustainable, while simultaneously revolutionizing the agriculture and construction industries through the rapid introduction of new technologies.
As a part of this strategy, we utilize IoT and machine performance data to develop new solutions, particularly for our dealers and customers through John Deere Connected Support™. The technology in the Connected Support suite of tools has empowered a shift from reacting to problems after they occur in the field to a proactive approach of anticipating and preventing machine downtime. |
Head to the Web
Visit www.oemoffhighway. com/21723062 to watch our video interview with Nick Block for more insights on engine and heavy equipment industry trends.
