Fendt has launched a limited edition 900 Vario model to mark production of 50,000 900 series. 30 years on from the first 900 Vario, the latest anniversary model features an engraved ’50,000’ door sill, embroidered floor mats with an anniversary logo, super comfort seats trimmed in titanium leather and an anniversary badge on the chromed bonnet.
“This special edition 900 Vario is limited to 300 models which are available to order from Fendt dealers now. The 900 Vario was unveiled at Agritechnica in 1995 and was the world’s first tractor to feature continuously variable, power-split transmission. Since that launch it has proved remarkably popular worldwide for a wide range of applications,” says Fendt’s Ed Dennett.
The anniversary model reflects on some of the past models, with paintwork reminiscent of the 2005 Design Line. Four colourways have been released, including the trademark black that led to the 2005 model being christened the ‘Black Madonna’, steel blue, black/red and nature green.
“The 900 has long been the tractor of firsts. A true pioneer, it was the first to feature the electronically controlled fuel injection system and the first to benefit from Fendt’s Vario Terminal. The subsequent 2003 model was the first Fendt operated with the new Tractor Management System (TMS) which electronically linked the engine and transmission and automatically adjusted the revs to match the power requirement,” says Mr Dennett.
2005 saw the launch of the 936 Vario with a Deutz 360hp engine, independent wheel suspension, a new cab and a class-leading 60km/h top speed. The fourth generation that followed in 2010, increased power output to 390hp from a 7.8 litre Deutz engine. This model was the first to be fitted with VarioGrip, a revolutionary onboard air system to regulate tyre pressure from the cab.
“Innovations like VarioGrip have kept the Fendt 900 Vario one step ahead over the 30 years it has been manufactured. VarioGrip was Fendt’s way of demonstrating a commitment to providing powerful tractors that could reduce soil compaction and fuel consumption,” adds Mr Dennett.
In 2013, the fifth generation of the 900 Vario was fitted with another new Deutz power plant, this time with steel pistons and two turbo chargers of different sizes, along with a new intercooler which replaced the previous turbo charging system. For many, the new reversible fan was a game changer because it helped the engine breathe in dusty environments which significantly reduced downtime.
“The 900 Vario has always transcended agriculture to be a valuable machine for other industries like construction and forestry. Its versatility, economy and power have offered a perfect mix and it has won countless awards for its innovation,” says Mr Dennett.
The current sixth generation, on which the special edition is based, was released in 2019. It took the latest single mode VarioDrive with four-wheel drive from the larger 1000 series, and the range topping 942 has 415hp provided by a 9.0 litre MAN engine. Two years later, the operating system was updated to run the now widely used FendtONE system which has transformed workflow between office and tractor.
“It is a fitting mark of appreciation that Fendt has chosen to recognise the importance of the 900 Vario with this new 50,000 limited edition model. Demand will be high and we expect the 300 tractors will find their owners very quickly,” concludes Mr Dennett.
