John Deere and Liebherr Collaborate on Engine Development

February 9, 2017

Ryan Gehm

John Deere Power Systems and Liebherr Machines Bulle SA announced on February 8 an agreement to jointly evaluate engine technologies, designs and development processes that may assist future product development for both companies. The collaboration will target specific horsepower and displacement ranges, but potential engines and other output associated with this collaboration are not being detailed at this time, the partners noted.

Both companies expect the collaboration to accelerate the time from engine concept to first production on any particular engine project. JDPS and Liebherr Machines Bulle produce engines that power John Deere and Liebherr equipment, as well as machines manufactured by other equipment manufacturers.

“Because of the capabilities each [company] brings, and the long-standing, positive working relationship, it makes sense for our two companies to join technical efforts in areas of engine technology and architectures, component sourcing strategies, and best practices related to engine development and manufacture,” Mike Weinert, John Deere Power Systems vice president responsible for engine engineering and manufacturing, said in the announcement.

“Markets and customer needs are always evolving, meaning the engines that our respective companies need must also change,” Rudolf Ellensohn, managing director at Liebherr Machines Bulle responsible for the diesel engines business unit, said in the announcement. “This collaboration between John Deere Power Systems and Liebherr enables the two companies to gain leverage in numerous areas such as pooling engineering resources, tooling costs, and supplier development.”

Additional announcements are expected as the partnership progresses, the companies said.