Flagged up as the ideal solution for mixed and livestock farms, the T4 Electric Power all-electric light utility tractor prototype can also work autonomously. Commercial production is expected to begin at the end of 2023 when it will also be available as a Case IH tractor. More models are planned for the future.
Finished in the same ‘Clean Blue’ colour scheme, illuminated leaf emblem and signature taillights as the T7 Methane Power LNG featured over the weekend, both tractors were previewed at CNH Industrial’s Tech Day in Phoenix, USA.
The result of joint work between engineers at Burr Ridge (US) and Modena (Italy), collaboration with CNH’s strategic partner Monarch Tractor is said to have halved the T4 Electric Power prototype’s development time.
Producing a peak power of 120hp, maximum torque of 440Nm and a top speed of 40km/hr, the battery is said to deliver up to a full day of operation, taking just one hour to reach 100% power when using a fast charger.
The T4 Electric Power’s roof houses sensors, cameras and control units. Detecting and avoiding obstacles, these allow the tractor to operate autonomously.
Electrical outlets support daily farm tasks such as welding and drilling. Doubling as a backup power generator for daily or emergency needs, the outlets also power electric implements. Traditional mechanical, hydraulic and pto implements can also be used.
In tests, the electric prototype is said to have shown exceptional performance compared to a conventional diesel tractor. Providing greater traction control and smoother shuttling and gear shifts, the saving in diesel costs and maintenance is said to reduce operating costs by up to 90%. The tractor is quiet, too, reducing noise levels by up to 90% and vibration is also dampened.
It is possible to remotely activate the tractor via a smartphone app. The Shadow Follow Me mode lets operators sync machines to work together and implement recognition ensures the tractor links up with the required attachment. Offboard digital services allows the tractor to be run from anywhere, at any time, while monitoring performance and battery level.
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