Suitable for opencast mining operations, equipment manufacturer John Deere launched its 944 X-Tier wheel loader to the African market towards the end of February.

The wheel loader is designed to meet the rigorous demands of its customers’ operations, offering features and benefits that enhance productivity while reducing environmental impact – evidenced by what John Deere claims is a CO₂ emissions reduction of up to 31 kg an hour compared to traditional drive machines. Over 30 000 hours, John Deere reports that this equates to about 930 000 kg less CO₂ emitted.

The 944 X-Tier is designed with John Deere’s hybrid-electric E-Drive system, which combines a John Deere 13.5 ℓ engine with advanced electric drive components, enhancing power delivery and fuel efficiency.

These reductions are achieved through advanced technologies such as selective catalytic reduction and diesel particulate filters, resulting in cleaner exhaust emissions and a significant decrease in pollutants that contribute to smog and respiratory issues.

The 944 X-Tier is equipped with a Final Tier 4 engine, meeting the stringent Environmental Protection Agency emissions standards, achieving an 80% reduction in nitrogen oxides compared to other tiers.

John Deere construction and forestry Africa and the Middle East sales manager Griffiths Makgate explains that the E-Drive system enables the 944 X-Tier to burn 13% to 33% less fuel compared to conventionally driven wheel loaders in typical applications, significantly reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

In addition, the 944 X-Tier is equipped with exclusive features designed to increase productivity and reduce operating costs, such as a traction control system that automatically limits torque to any wheel when slippage occurs, eliminating runaway wheel spin and increasing tyre life.

A coast control feature enables operators to adjust the machine’s deceleration aggressiveness, extending service brake life.

Further, since the 944 X-Tier does not contain major components like axles and a transmission, those components will not need to be rebuilt or replaced like on a conventional-drive loader.

In terms of servicing and maintenance, John Deere reports that a mid-life event for the 944 X-Tier, in the 18 000-hour to 20 000-hour range, costs about 50% to 60% less than rebuilding a traditionally-driven equivalent machine.

The electric drive components on the 944 X-Tier are backed by an eight-year/20 000-hour warranty.

“This extensive warranty reflects the trust we have in the 944 X-Tier advanced technology and our dedication to providing unparalleled support to our customers,” says John Deere construction and forestry Africa, Middle East and Southeast Asia customer product support manager Renico Lombard.