CNH Industrial 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.
A concentrated effort between their team of experts in the USA (Burr Ridge, Detroit) and Italy (Modena) was able to halve this prototype’s development time thanks to the collaboration with their strategic partner Monarch Tractor – an electrified Ag innovator based in California. In conjunction with Monarch’s disruptive technology, the company’s in-house expertise and resources made this possible.
This product milestone is the latest development in their strategic plan for electrification. The prototype presented is branded New Holland Agriculture, while the commercial model will also extend to their Case IH Brand. 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,” explains Marc Kermisch, Chief Digital & Information Officer, CNH Industrial.
The finer details: Power/ Performance / Precision
This First-Generation Battery Electric Light Vehicle belongs to the utility tractor segment. Commercial production is expected to begin at the end of 2023, with a broader product offering. No price has been announced. Contact your local dealer to let them know your interest, as a waitlist for purchase may result. California tax incentives will pay for more than half the retail cost. Monarch is sold out through Sept. 2023.
Power
E-Motor peak: Up to 120hp – Max Torque: Up to 440Nm
4-wheel drive: Yes – Max Speed: 40 kph – Zero Emissions: Always
Depending on the mission profile, the tractor’s battery pack delivers up to a full day of operation. Using commercially available fast charging systems takes just one hour to reach 100% power. 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 and efficient and provides greater traction control. Smoother shuttling and gear shifts make driving even more of a pleasure. It also reduces operating costs by up to 90% for our customers, thanks to eliminating diesel fuel costs and associated maintenance fees.
And it’s quiet. Noise is reduced by up to 90%, and the vibration is substantially dampened. This respects stringent municipal noise regulations, allows for nighttime operation, and improves livestock well-being, especially when working inside covered areas such as barns.
Precision
Its autonomous features and automated capabilities make this tractor a world-first. 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, enabling 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 our alternative power portfolio. The T4 Electric Power on display features the New Holland Clean Blue color – also present on the new T7 Methane Power LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) launched at Tech Day. Their illuminated leaf emblem and signature taillights distinguish them from conventional diesel tractors’ aesthetics.
The T4 Electric Power joins the New Holland T7 Methane Power LNG and T6 Methane Power tractors for an alternative source portfolio demonstrating CNH Industrial’s commitment to sustainably advancing agriculture for the world’s farmers.