At its Tech Day in Phoenix, Arizona, CNH Industrial revealed the New Holland T4 Electric Power – the industry’s first all-electric light utility tractor prototype with autonomous features
A concentrated effort between CNH’s team of experts in the US and Italy along with their collaboration with strategic partner Monarch Tractor – an electrified Ag innovator based in California, made this world-first result possible.
This product milestone is the latest development in CNH’s strategic plan for electrification. It follows the launch of the multi award-winning e-Source power pack – an external generator for electric farm implements.
“The T4 Electric Power is the ideal solution for lower horsepower operations. 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,” explained Marc Kermisch, chief digital and information officer, CNH Industrial.
This first-generation battery electric light vehicle belongs to the utility tractor segment with commercial production expected to begin at the end of 2023 with a broader product offering to follow.
Depending on the mission profile, the tractor’s battery pack will deliver up to 24 hours of operation. It takes just one hour to reach 100% power when using commercially available fast charging systems. The tractor’s electrical outlets support daily farm tasks such as welding and drilling. It also doubles as a backup power generator for daily or emergency needs and provides energy for electric implements. Traditional mechanical, hydraulic and power take off implements can also be used.
In testing, the T4 Electric Power showed exceptional performance compared to a conventional diesel tractor while also reducing operating costs by up to 90% for customers. In addition to this, noise was reduced by up to 90% and vibration was also substantially dampened. This allows for nighttime operation, and improves livestock wellbeing, especially when working inside covered areas such as barns.
What makes this tractor a world first are its autonomous features and automated capabilities. Together these technologies provide leading solutions that support operators of all skill levels.
The T4 Electric Power’s roof houses sensors, cameras and control units which enable its advanced autonomous and automated features. Farmers can remotely activate the tractor via a smartphone app. Shadow Follow Me mode lets operators sync machines to work together. A 360-degree perception system detects and avoids obstacles. Telematics and auto guidance keep all functions in check for operators. Fleet management lets the farm manager assign tasks to each piece of equipment; while implement recognition ensures that the tractor seamlessly links up with the required attachment. Moreover, offboard digital services let farmers run the tractor from anywhere, at any time, while monitoring its performance and battery level.
