Fendt states that the 500 Vario range is an important part of its portfolio, with the mid-power sector representing a huge number of sales. The revamped 500 Vario brings down key features from the high-horsepower range, including the continuously variable VarioDrive TA 120 transmission that automatically and independently adjusts the power sent to each wheel.
This enables all-wheel drive, as well as the pull-in turn effect, which adjusts the speed of the front axle to pull the tractor round, resulting in a turning circle of 10.1m.
The use of the VarioDrive is also a key part of the Fendt iD low speed concept, which enables the AgcoPower Core 50 power unit to run at just 1,300rpm when travelling at 40kph, or at 1,600rpm at the 50kph top speed.
The four-cylinder engine offers a rated power of 164hp, increasing to 174hp with a rated speed of 1,900rpm. Max torque is 792Nm, available continuously between 1,200 and 1,500rpm. Pneumatic braking is fitted to the front and rear, with an electronic trailer brake assist system that monitors the behaviour of the trailer and tractor to avoid jack-knifing.
An electronic load-sensing hydraulic pump is fitted, with 110 litres/min available as standard, increasing to 155 litres/min as an option, with an independent steering pump producing 43 litres/min.
Up to five electronic remotes are available at the rear, with three mid-mounts and two up front as required.
The rear linkage has a lift capacity of 7,890kg, with 4,400kg available at the front. Thanks to uprated components throughout, the maximum permissible weight as increased to 11,750kg, meaning that it can now make full use of the linkage capacities.
It can also be fitted with the VarioGrip centralised tyre inflation system, as can every wheeled tractor range above the 500 in the Fendt range, using a two-cylinder, water-cooled compressor.