The objective of the project “Hybrid Electric Tractor for the Agriculture of the Future” concerns the study, design, development, and both bench and field testing of new electrified technologies for the hybridization of tractors. In particular, the focus was placed on two target applications: medium-sized tractors, with power ranging from 200 to 450 hp, and “special” tractors designed for work in orchards and vineyards, with power ranging from 57 to 120 hp. The expected and measured outcomes relate to improvements in performance, functionality, and comfort for the end user.

Through this project, hybrid technology, together with an innovative serial-parallel architecture, was successfully developed and integrated into three medium-sized tractor prototypes and one special tractor prototype, with the aim of extending the identified benefits within the agricultural sector.

The subsequent phases of the project development foresee advanced engineering activities, with a 360-degree approach to the project, including the technical feasibility of the final product and the commercial feasibility that would allow for its industrialization.

Some of the main advantages of tractor hybridization in this project, measured in the field and directly perceived by the end user, can be summarized as follows:

1. Fuel consumption reduction of up to 16% for operations with standard towed or mounted implements, and up to 35% for operations with electrified implements.
2. Noise reduction of 30% compared to current products on the market.
3. Enhanced dynamic response of the tractor during torque transients, resulting in faster field operations, with up to 30% improvement in dynamic response during load peaks.
4. Additional wheel torque for traction effort, i.e., 20% more than the nominal power.
5. Improved maneuverability with E-Steering, resulting in a 15% improvement in turning radius.
6. Improved maneuverability with E-Shuttling, resulting in a 30% reduction in the time required for shuttling maneuvers, with enhanced comfort.

The project, under the Steyr brand, was awarded the prestigious Silver Medal for Innovation at Agritechnica 2023, a long-standing reference event for the agricultural sector.

Thanks in part to this project, CNH continues on its path of innovation and exploration of new technologies, from hybrid to electric and alternative fuels, with the goal of making its machines increasingly sustainable and productive, promoting sustainable agriculture and contributing to the reduction of emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

With financial support from the European Union – ERDF, PON Enterprises and Competitiveness 2014–2020, for an amount exceeding 500 million euros.