New Holland Agriculture Launches World's First Accessible Farm Tractor for Individuals with Lower Limb Disabilities

In a historic leap forward, New Holland Agriculture, a prominent brand under CNH Industrial, has introduced an extraordinary innovation to the agricultural world – the TL5 'Acessível', the world's first-ever accessible farm tractor. Crafted at the cutting-edge manufacturing facility of New Holland in Curitiba, Brazil, this groundbreaking tractor is meticulously designed to empower individuals with lower limb disabilities, enabling them to confidently engage in independent agricultural work.

Responding to a critical need for inclusive solutions, the TL5 'Acessível' represents a monumental stride towards equality and autonomy for individuals with disabilities. The 2019 National Health Survey conducted jointly by the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics unveiled that Brazil is home to approximately 17.3 million individuals, accounting for 8.4% of the population, who grapple with varying forms of disabilities. Astonishingly, among these, around 7.8 million individuals contend with lower limb disabilities. Furthermore, an estimated 2.9 million people with disabilities reside in the country's rural landscapes.

Eduardo Kerbauy, Vice President of New Holland Agriculture for Latin America, emphasized the brand's unwavering dedication to inclusion: "Inclusion's cornerstone is granting individuals with disabilities, including those who toil in rural settings, the autonomy to carry out their tasks independently." Kerbauy reaffirmed New Holland's status as a comprehensive brand catering to the diverse needs of farmers, spanning from small-scale to large-scale operations.

The journey to realize the remarkable TL5 'Acessível' began with the conceptualization of a prototype tractor, initially unveiled at prominent agricultural exhibitions in 2020, where it garnered widespread acclaim from both the public and the media. The ultimate manifestation of this concept materialized through a collaborative effort involving Elevittá, an innovative mobility company, alongside Arteprima and Senai from São Leopoldo (RS).

A pivotal facet of the tractor's development journey encompassed the active involvement and insights of a real New Holland customer who relies on a wheelchair for mobility. Flávio Mazetto, Director of Product Marketing for New Holland Agriculture for Latin America, underlined the integral role of customer engagement in shaping a product that addresses genuine needs and upholds safety standards.

In realizing the commercialization of this accessible tractor, New Holland seized upon the opportunity presented by the Brazilian government's 'Rota 2030' (Route 2030) financing program. This initiative facilitates financial backing for innovation projects that foster social inclusion. Built upon the robust foundation of the TL5 tractor platform, which boasts over two decades of progressive development, the TL5 'Acessível' stands as a testament to technological evolution.

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The TL5 'Acessível' is available in three versions, boasting 80, 90, and 100 horsepower capacities. Designed with versatility and durability in mind, this groundbreaking tractor caters to the requirements of small, medium-sized, and family-run farms. Its applications span an array of tasks including soil preparation, planting, lime spreading, silage production, mowing, spraying, loader operations, and more.

Central to the tractor's innovative features is a lifting platform and a joystick mechanism that facilitate seamless entry and exit for the operator. The operator seat and controls have been meticulously adapted to ensure user-friendly operation while preserving ergonomic excellence. Moreover, the tractor is engineered to be operated by individuals without reduced mobility, rendering it a versatile asset on any farm.

Aligned with New Holland's commitment to enhancing customer experience, the brand is developing a telematics solution for the complete TL5 range. This cutting-edge technology will empower farmers to monitor their tractor's vital information through the MYPLMCONNECT fleet management platform, offering real-time insights into movements and operational data.

To facilitate the acquisition of the groundbreaking accessible tractor, Banco CNH Industrial, in collaboration with New Holland and its extensive dealership network, is set to provide customers with attractive financing options. These options complement existing government financing avenues provided by the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES).

Paulo Máximo, Director of Commercial Marketing for New Holland Agriculture for Latin America, encapsulated the significance of this innovation: "With the launch of this accessible tractor, we want to empower people. It is not just a question of making new technology available in the agricultural machinery market, but also enabling people with disabilities to return to their occupations with independence."

The TL5 'Acessível' tractor stands as a pioneering testament to New Holland's commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and innovation. It ushers in a new era of opportunities, enabling individuals with disabilities to actively contribute to the agricultural sector, fostering a more equitable society and sustainable farming practices.

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