Electric propulsion and autonomous vehicles have become a hot topic in the agricultural industry, attracting the attention of both established tractor manufacturers and start-ups. Recently, at the Agritechnica trade fair, several start-ups showcased their prototype electric tractors, signaling significant progress in the development of electric propulsion and autonomous technology in the agricultural sector.
One notable trend observed at the trade fair was that these start-ups chose to build their electric tractors from scratch, rather than simply replacing the engine of an existing tractor with an electric motor. This approach offers more freedom in terms of battery placement, a critical consideration for fully electric vehicles. The battery pack must be able to replace a 50 to 60-liter fuel tank, and finding the optimal space for it remains a challenge.
One such example of a start-up taking a fresh approach is the Technical University of Munich’s TUMtrac. This study model, developed by a team of eight researchers, aims to explore the technical capabilities and possibilities of a fully electric tractor. The TUMtrac was put to the test last fall, where it was used for tasks such as sowing wheat, cultivating, and tipping.
Another start-up, Tadus, has created the E-Tractor based on the Doppstad Systra. This electric tractor retains the diesel engine, which drives a generator to power the vehicle. While the E-Tractor has undergone extensive testing, if it goes into production, it will be a completely new build. Tadus has partnered with Baumüller Anlagen-Systemtechnik for the development of this electric tractor.
Onox, a project by German start-up Raumideen, has designed an electric tractor that closely resembles a standard agricultural tractor, with the exception of the omission of a diesel engine. The designers have focused on enabling quick battery exchanges, and the Onox is designed for 50 kW power with 3kWh of energy per battery pack. While it is still a prototype and has not been tested yet, it showcases the innovative ideas emerging in the electric tractor space.
Notably, American company Monarch Tractor has fully redesigned an autonomous electric tractor. This e-tractor, being built in California, has caught the attention of industry giant CNH Industrial, leading to a partnership between the two companies.
While the benefits of electric tractors are evident, there are still challenges that need to be overcome. Both start-ups and established manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development to find solutions. Full electrification seems to be a viable option for tractors under 100 horsepower, particularly for tasks on and around the farmyard, where the tractor is not constantly under heavy load and recharging is easily accessible.
As the agricultural industry moves towards a more sustainable and autonomous future, the development of electric tractors holds great promise. These start-ups are pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities, paving the way for a greener and more efficient farming sector.