Electric Tractors Enter Mainstream Agriculture with Full-Size Models, Case IH & New Holland Unveil 75hp Tractors

In a significant stride toward sustainable farming practices, the agricultural industry is witnessing the commercial launch of battery-powered electric tractors. This revolutionary development comes on the heels of the Farm Progress Show in the United States, where 55kW (75hp) models were unveiled to the public.

What sets these electric tractors apart is their full-size build, complete with a cab and the same equipment one would expect from a diesel-powered tractor of equivalent power. Case IH Farmall 75C Electric and New Holland T4 Electric Power are spearheading this transition, boasting telematics, connectivity features, and even autonomous capabilities to make the lives of farmers easier.

One of the standout features of these electric tractors is their autonomous capabilities, allowing them to pass through gateways without an operator onboard. Furthermore, they feature a 'follow-me' function, enabling an operator on foot to guide the tractor without needing to climb aboard.

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These groundbreaking models are the result of an exclusive technology licensing agreement between CNH Industrial and Monarch Tractor. Monarch Tractor, a US-based startup founded in 2019, was established with the goal of developing electric tractors with autonomous functionalities. While Monarch already offers its open-platform 50kW (70hp) Mk-V electric tractor in the US, CNH's Case IH and New Holland models integrate Monarch's technology into existing Farmall platforms.

The new electric tractors retain familiar elements such as four-wheel drive, a reliable 12x12 transmission with electric power shuttle, multiple rear- and mid-mounted remote hydraulic valves, and a full-size cab. The only noticeable difference, aside from their green credentials, is the presence of charging and electric tool power sockets adjacent to the left side of the cab.

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Under the hood, these tractors house a lithium battery pack with a maximum capacity of 110kWh, offering 95kWh of usable capacity to generate 55kW (75hp) for propulsion and hydraulic power, with 48kW (65hp) available at the power take-off (PTO).

On average, these electric tractors are estimated to run for approximately four hours on a single charge, depending on the tasks they're assigned. However, New Holland engineers believe that for yard and less demanding field work in agriculture and horticulture, this runtime is sufficient, particularly if a midday top-up can be scheduled between routine chores. For lighter duties, the tractors may even extend their runtime to as much as eight hours.

Notably, in North America, these electric tractors will be offered under both the Case IH and New Holland brands, complete with a loader option when the order book opens early next year.

With these electrified, full-size tractors, the agricultural industry is taking a giant leap toward sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices. As farmers increasingly embrace the benefits of electric tractors, we can anticipate a greener, more efficient future for agriculture.

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