Claas targets electric loaders and hydrogen engines for sustainable farming
Claas is advancing sustainable farming with clear solutions: fully electric powertrains for smaller vehicles like telehandlers and hydrogen engines as a promising alternative for heavy-duty machines. These innovations aim to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of agricultural operations.
The agricultural sector faces increasing pressure to adopt cleaner, more sustainable technologies without compromising performance. Claas is tackling this challenge with a dual focus: electric drives for lighter vehicles and hydrogen-powered engines for heavy machinery.
As part of a €5.1 million research project funded by Germany’s Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Claas is collaborating with industry leaders such as Deutz, Mahle, and Liebherr. The project explores hydrogen engines’ potential to deliver robust, efficient, and low-emission performance in agricultural machines. Tests include real-world trials with hydrogen-powered vehicles and extensive material studies to ensure durability under demanding conditions.
Waste oils and fats
In addition to hydrogen, Claas also supports alternative fuels like HVO diesel. HVO, or Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, is a renewable diesel substitute made from sustainable feedstocks such as waste oils and fats. It offers up to a 90% reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to traditional diesel and is already approved for use across the entire Claas product range.
Claas is also investing in fully electric solutions. The Scorpion telehandler, showcased as a concept at Agritechnica 2023, represents the company’s vision for battery-powered equipment tailored for farmyard tasks.
“Decarbonisation requires the right technology for the right application”, explains Dr. Martin von Hoyningen-Huene, Chief Technology Officer at Claas. “Electric drives are ideal for lower-power applications, such as around the farm, while hydrogen and sustainable fuels are essential for high-performance machinery.”
Read more about electrification in agriculture
