CNH Industrial rolled out its first electric tractor prototype with autonomous features, the New Holland T4 Electric Power.
Hailed as the industry’s first all-electric light utility tractor prototype with autonomous features, the T4 was developed between the CNH team in the U.S. and Italy-based Modena, and in conjunction with collaboration with California-based Monarch Tractor.
Commercial production is expected to begin at the end of 2023 with a broader product offering to follow.
The T4 will offer a peak output of 120 hp and be available in 4-wheel drive. Maximum road speed will be 40 kph. Battery charging takes an hour on commercial fast-charging systems, and one charge should last a “full day” of operation. Noise is also reduced 90 per cent over traditional models.
The prototype also comes with sensors, cameras and, control units which enable its autonomous and automated features, including remote activation of the tractor via a smartphone app. Shadow Follow Me mode lets operators sync machines to work together, while a 360-degree perception system detects and avoids obstacles.
The tractor is equipped with telematics and auto guidance, fleet management, and implement recognition. Digital services let farmers run the tractor from anywhere, at any time, while monitoring its performance and battery level, the company says.
It follows the launch the 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,” says Marc Kermisch, Chief Digital & Information Officer, CNH Industrial.
