New Holland continues to develop its methane-powered tractor and brought the second generation prototype to SIMA 2015, in Paris last week. Flagged up as a working tractor, and 100% methane-powered, the unusual version of the company’s T6.140 retains the standard diesel engine. It is fed by methane gas stored in nine separate tanks (total capacity 50kg), which provide sufficient capacity for half a day’s normal operation. Integrated into the overall design, New Holland says the tractor maintains the same visibility and ground clearance as the standard model. Speaking at a press conference, New Holland top man Carlo Lambro says the ultimate objective is a sustainable future where farms develop their own energy. His vision is that farms will generate methane through renewable biomass produced from a biogas plant. When using bio-methane, the company says the tractor’s carbon impact is virtually zero, and cost savings between 25% and 40% can be achieved when compared with conventional fuels. “The latest prototype produces 80% lower CO2 emissions than a standard tractor,” says Mr Lambro. Previewed at the 2013 Agritechnica, the burning question now is when the tractor will go into production? Mr Lambro reckons it can take 3-5 years to bring a new tractor to the market. “There are no serious issues to face but we are still reviewing the market potential.” The message is clear. Interested punters may still have to wait a couple more years. In the meantime, this latest prototype has returned to Italy for further evaluation work on a farm near Turin.
Advertisement