CNH Industrial reveals electric tractor prototype with autonomous features

CNH Industrial has revealed the New Holland T4 Electric Power – the industry’s first all-electric light utility tractor prototype with autonomous features – at its Tech Day in Phoenix, Arizona, USA.

This product is the latest development in CNH Industrial’s strategic plan for electrification. The prototype is a New Holland Agriculture brand, while the commercial model will also extend to the Case IH Brand.

“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,” said Marc Kermisch, Chief Digital & Information Officer, CNH Industrial.

Green utility tractor
Commercial production of this first-generation battery electric light vehicle, which belongs to the utility tractor segment, is expected to begin at the end of 2023 with a broader product offering to follow.

The zero-emission New Holland T4 Electric Power¸ which develops peak e-motor power of up to 120hp and max torque of up to 440 Nm, has a max speed of 40kph. Depending on the mission profile, the tractor’s battery pack delivers up to a full day of operation. CNH Industrial says 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 doubles as a backup power generator for daily or emergency needs. And it provides energy for electric implements. Traditional mechanical, hydraulic and Power Take Off implements can also be used.

Performance
In testing, the T4 Electric Power showed exceptional performance compared to a conventional diesel tractor. Its superb responsiveness makes it more aggressive, efficient and provides greater traction control. Smoother shuttling and gear shifts are other highlights and the company claims it “also reduces operating costs by up to 90% for our customers, thanks to eliminating diesel fuel costs and associated maintenance fees.”

Noise is reduced by up to 90% and vibration is also substantially dampened, says CNH Industrial. 

High on automation 
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. Implement recognition ensures the tractor seamlessly links up with the required attachment. And offboard digital services let farmers run the tractor from anywhere, at any time, while monitoring its performance and battery level.

CNH Industrial’s global Design Team has styled the company’s alternative power portfolio. The T4 Electric Power features the New Holland Clean Blue colour – also present on the new T7 Methane Power LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) launched at Tech Day. Their illuminated leaf emblem and signature taillights mark a clear distinction from the aesthetics of conventional diesel tractors.

The T4 Electric Power joins the New Holland T7 Methane Power LNG and T6 Methane Power tractors for an alternative source portfolio.

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