Steyr shows hybrid powered concept tractor
At the Agritechnica show, Steyr launched a hybrid powered concept tractor, that is to offer a glimpse into the future of farming.
The concept tractor is designed by CNH Industrial’s Design Center and is centered around a modular hybrid electric drive, comprising a diesel engine, a generator and 5 electric motors, which are individually controlled.
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E-torque boost
The electric motors are networked to ensure power is directed exactly where needed, and an e-torque boost, fed from a central battery, supplies additional energy when operating at peak power.
This system is to result in highly efficient, electric continuously variable drive, with fewer moving parts – as the mechanical transmission and hydraulic components have been eliminated – to deliver optimal energy flow with reduced power losses.
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Large glazed windows with integrated cameras ensure better visibility and safety. – Photo: Mark Pasveer
A head-up display on the windscreen projects all key vehicle parameters for instant viewing. – Photo: Mark Pasveer
Hydraulics and PTO electrically driven
Energy can also be recovered and stored when travelling downhill. The concept vehicle can be charged via a standard charging socket. Tractor hydraulics as well as the PTO are electrically driven. Electrified implements can also be powered by either a high voltage (700V) or low voltage (48V) connector.
4 independent electric wheel hub motors are supplied with the precise amount of energy from the battery or generator according to their real-time requirements. This is to deliver optimal traction and precise steering.
4 wheel steering
According to Steyr, the use of wheel hub motors lowers the vehicle’s overall center of gravity, improving stability as well as maneuverability thanks to individual wheel torque deployment and 4 wheel steering.
The operator environment is enhanced thanks to individual wheel suspension for a smoother ride, and large glazed windows with integrated cameras are to ensure better visibility and safety.
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Tractor hydraulics as well as the PTO (power take off, used for powering mounted implements) are electrically driven. – Photo: CNHi
According to Steyr, the concept lays the foundations for the future of tractor design. – Photo: CNHi
Drone flies ahead of the tractor
A drone equipped with crop sensors flies ahead of the tractor during field work, transmitting real-time data back to the cab, meaning operating parameters can be modified based on actual field conditions.
A mobile, digital farm office empowers operators to undertake farm management directly from the cab thanks to an integrated display on the right-hand window. A head-up display on the windscreen projects all key vehicle parameters for instant viewing.
