MACHINERY

New Holland reveals alternative power prototype tractors

LNG and electric-powered prototype tractors have been demonstrated by New Holland in the US.

Staff writer

This article is 2 years old. Images might not display.

The T7 Methane Power Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) tractor, the T4 Electric Power tractor and new autonomy systems were displayed at the CNH Industrial Tech Day event, held in Phoenix, Arizona earlier this week.

The two-day event was organised by CNH Industrial to demonstrate the progress the company has made in precision technology and New Holland's Road to Carbon Neutral Farming project which aims to provide machines running on non-diesel fuels while working on various approaches to reduce farming's carbon footprint.

The T7 Methane Power LNG tractor is the world's first LNG tractor. New Holland says with its LNG power solution, it will more than double the autonomy of its current methane products due to liquefied methane delivering four times as much fuel storage capacity when compared to using compressed gas (CNG).

With a 201kW (270hp) model, the T7 Methane Power LNG delivers the same power and torque as the equivalent diesel tractor.

Carlo Lambro, brand president New Holland Agriculture, said: "This prototype shows the world that our commitment to sustainability is here to stay. We believe the best solution currently available on the market to lower emissions and costs is natural gas - especially biomethane.

"This premiere complements New Holland's existing T6 Methane Power and CNH Industrial's wider alternative power portfolio."

The T7 Methane Power LNG features a patented active temperature-controlled fuel system. It incorporates a stainless-steel cryogenic tank that is moulded to match its diesel counterpart, maximising space and effectively storing liquified methane on board the tractor.

The system has a self-supporting vacuum space that insulates the fuel within and reduces the tank's thickness. Once out in the field, the tanks' active temperature control ensures that the engine runs smoothly.

The T7 Methane Power LNG can be powered by Liquefied Biomethane sourced from livestock manure and slurry.

The second major innovation unveiled at the event is the industry's first all-electric utility tractor prototype with autonomous features - the T4 Electric Power - developed by CNH Industrial's team of experts in the USA and Italy with the collaboration of Monarch Tractor.

The tractor's battery offers run times of up to one full day of use, and it can be recharged in just one hour with fast charging systems. The machine can also be used as a backup power source for other devices and machines, or to provide energy for implements.

 

 

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the farming sector, brought to you by the Kondinin team.

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the farming sector, brought to you by the Kondinin team.

editions

Research Report: Cordless Impact Wrenches (July 2025)

Six battery-powered impact wrenches were bench tested in this month's Research Report, focusing on their ability to get nuts done up and undone.

editions

Research Report: Mouse Bait Applications (June 2025)

Mice remain a significant issue for cropping regions and the June Research Report, supported by an investment from the Grains Research and Development Corporation, brings together the latest research and practical recommendations for bait spreading and machinery performance to help growers improve mouse control strategies.

editions

Research Report: Farm Labour (May 2025)

Farm labour, whether temporary, casual, contract or permanent staff, is an essential part of agriculture. This Research Report provides insights to help better source and manage one of the farm’s most valuable assets – its people.

editions

Research Report: Sheep Yards (April 2025)

This month's Research Report includes more than a dozen case studies of new sheep yard builds and renovations from around the country. There are plenty of ideas to make the handling of stock more efficient and stress-free.