As part of the 2020 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, the Fendt factory network, made up of production sites in Marktoberdorf and Asbach-Bäumenheim, was awarded the title of «Advanced Lighthouse of the Fourth Industrial Revolution». Today Fendt is one of 44 companies worldwide that are members of the «Global Lighthouse Network».
Companies in the «Global Lighthouse Network» play a pioneering role in the fourth industrial revolution, since they’re able to adapt their production processes through digital data analysis, autonomous systems, or high flexibility.
Hans-Bernd Veltmaat, AGCO senior vice president and chief supply-chain officer
«The AGCO Fendt brand is the only agricultural-machinery manufacturer included in this outstanding network of global industrial companies, – said Hans-Bernd Veltmaat, AGCO senior vice president and chief supply-chain officer. – This award shows that, besides excellent developments, Fendt is also a leader in tractor engineering and can hold its own on an international level. Thanks to modern production and assembly equipment, as well as well-thought-out processes, Fendt and its sister brands in the AGCO group achieve high production flexibility and efficiency».
So that, in the future, the needs of an ever-growing population for food and energy can be met, machines and systems for agriculture need to work efficiently and profitably, and be flexible in use. Because of this, almost every tractor Fendt makes is unique in some way. So, for example, Fendt tractors stand out through the design of their hydraulic connections, various brake-system options, or special cab equipment. Efficient production of such a large number of equipment variants is only possible with the so-called VarioTakt system. This extremely flexible assembly system guarantees that all nine tractor series, with their 38 models, can be assembled in various configurations, to customer order, on a single assembly line.
The result: Fendt tractor production lets the company respond quickly and flexibly to current market demands. So, the «Global Lighthouse Network» jury’s decision confirms: «Fendt combines digital solutions with a well-thought-out assembly-line design. This means Fendt can produce nine tractor series – from 72 to 517 hp – even as a single unit».
(l. to r.) Eckart Gläser, AGCO/Fendt managing director of production, and Hans-Bernd Veltmaat, AGCO senior vice president and chief supply-chain officer
«Our goal is to produce 20,000 tractors by the end of this year», said Eckart Gläser, AGCO/Fendt managing director of production. – In Fendt’s entire history, this many tractors have never been produced before, so unique production methods are needed to build them quickly, flexibly and individually, to the customer’s requirements. And still with excellent quality. But even the best plant, the smartest logistics processes and the most modern machines are only effective thanks to Fendt’s employees. Our workers’ expertise, dedication, reliability and thoroughness, along with pride in our machines, are what turn a tractor into a true Fendt!».
About the Global Lighthouse Network
The World Economic Forum meets in Davos every year to discuss economic and political developments on an international level and give them new momentum. During these high-level meetings, the «Global Lighthouse Network» was created as a platform for exchange. It’s made up of 44 leading companies in the manufacturing sector. This network will discuss and develop new technologies, innovations, digital-transformation methods and “Industry 4.0”.
