Massey Ferguson develops high-pressure storage tanks for hydrogen tractor
Tractor manufacturer Massey Ferguson is developing high-pressure hydrogen tanks for its future hydrogen tractor. The prototype is expected to be ready in 2026.
Massey Ferguson, a subsidiary of Agco, which is also the parent company of tractor brands Fendt and Valtra, states that it is working on developing a hydrogen tractor in Beauvais (France). The goal is to provide a cleaner alternative to a diesel engine. According to the tractor manufacturer, hydrogen storage is crucial for hydrogen-powered machines.
Technical challenges
The hydrogen must be compressed under high pressure to store sufficient fuel in the tanks. Therefore, the manufacturer is working on developing storage tanks capable of holding hydrogen under high pressure (up to 700 bar). This presents several technical challenges, including material costs, the weight of the tanks, and the safety of using hydrogen.
Arhystote
To tackle these challenges, the manufacturer is participating in a collaboration with French companies united under Arhystote, Massey Ferguson states in a press release. This collaboration has received €4.4 million in funding from the French government as part of an energy transition initiative.
High pressure resistant, yet also lightweight
Hydrogen is highly suitable for heavy vehicles such as tractors. However, using hydrogen requires new technologies, particularly in the area of hydrogen gas storage. Traditional fuel tanks cannot be used, as this gas must be stored under high pressure. This means that the storage tanks must be strong enough to withstand the high pressure while also being lightweight and safe.
Building on existing technology
Massey Ferguson is basing its hydrogen tractor prototype on the design of a conventional mid-range diesel tractor, such as the MF 6S. “This engine concept significantly reduces development costs because it is based on a familiar design,” says Frédéric Cavoleau, Vice President of Engineering at Agco’s Beauvais facility. He continues: “Additionally, the cooling, transmission, and hydraulic systems remain largely the same as those in diesel engines, while the newly developed hydrogen tanks are seamlessly integrated under the cab.”
Prototype ready in 2026
Massey Ferguson has set an ambitious goal. The prototype hydrogen tractor is expected to be completed in 2026.
