New Holland unveils EV tractor prototype
CNH Industrial have revealed the New Holland ‘T4 Electric Power,’ a prototype EV tractor that they’re claiming is a first in the industry and the next step in the company’s alternative power innovation plan that already includes methane-powered tractors.
Following the launch of CNH Industrial’s multi award-winning ‘e-Source’ power pack – an external generator for electric farm implements – the next stage of transitioning EV technology to a tractor was the product of a concentrated effort between experts at CNH’s in-house operations in the USA and Italy. Input also came from Monarch Tractor, an electrified ag innovator based in California, who made this world-first result possible and halved the prototype’s development time.
While the T4 Electric Power wears New Holland branding in prototype form, commercial models will be sold under both the New Holland and Case IH brands.
“The T4 Electric Power is the ideal solution for lower horsepower operations,” said Marc Kermisch, Chief Digital & Information Officer, CNH Industrial. “It is suited to mixed farm, livestock, municipality, orchard and specialty applications. We know our customers are eager to adopt this type of product, so it makes perfect sense for us to continue our ag electrification journey with this platform.”
Commercial production of the T4 Electric Power is expected to begin at the end of 2023, with a broader product offering to follow.
Finer details: Power
The first-generation T4 Electric Power is described by CNH Industrial as belonging to the ‘utility tractor’ segment, with the following claimed performance measures.
Power
E-Motor peak: Up to 120hp
Max Torque: Up to 440Nm
4-wheel drive: Yes
Max Speed: 40km/h
Zero Emissions: Always
Depending on the usage, the tractor’s battery pack delivers up to a full day of operation and takes just one hour to reach 100% charge when using commercially available fast charging systems.
Electrical outlets on the tractor support daily farm tasks such as welding and drilling. It provides energy for electric implements and can also serve as a backup power generator for daily or emergency needs.
Traditional mechanical, hydraulic and PTO implements can also be used with the T4 Electric Power.
Finer details: Performance
In testing, CNH Industrial say the T4 Electric Power showed exceptional performance compared to a conventional diesel tractor. Its instant responsiveness made it more aggressive, efficient and with greater traction control, while smoother shuttling and gear shifts made it even more of a pleasure to drive. It also claims to reduce operating expense by up to 90%, thanks to eliminating diesel fuel costs and associated maintenance fees.
CNH Industrial say the prototype is quiet, too, with noise reduced by up to 90% and vibration also substantially dampened. Benefits of this include being able to meet stringent municipal noise regulations in built-up areas, operating freely at night and even improving livestock wellbeing, especially when working inside covered areas.
Finer details: Precision
What makes the T4 Electric Power tractor a world first are its autonomous features and automated capabilities. Together, these technologies provide what CNH Industrial say are leading solutions that support operators of all skill levels.
Sensors, cameras and control units in the tractor’s roof enable its advanced autonomous and automated features. These include the ability to remotely activate the tractor via a smartphone app, while a ‘Shadow Follow Me’ mode lets operators sync multiple machines to work together.
There’s also a 360-degree perception system that detects and avoids obstacles, while telematics and auto guidance keep all functions in check for operators.
A Fleet Management function lets the farm manager assign tasks to each piece of equipment and Implement Recognition ensures the tractor seamlessly links up with the required attachment. Finally, offboard digital services let farmers run the tractor from anywhere, at any time, while monitoring its performance and battery level.
T4 Design
Styling for the T4 Electric Power prototype is the product of CNH Industrial’s global design team and features New Holland’s familiar Clean Blue colour that’s also present on the T7 Methane Power LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) tractor that was launched in the USA last year. An illuminated leaf emblem and signature taillights give the T4 what’s claimed to be a clear visual distinction against conventional diesel tractors.
The production version of the T4 Electric Power will join the New Holland T7 Methane Power LNG and T6 Methane Power tractors in an alternative power source portfolio that further demonstrates CNH Industrial’s commitment to sustainably advancing agriculture for farmers worldwide.
