A major manufacturer of agricultural equipment has unveiled what it says is the industry’s first all-electric utility tractor that includes autonomous features. New Holland Agriculture said the T4 Electric Power marks the launch of an entirely new product category for the 2024 model year: the “utility electric.”
The T4 is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack capable of delivering consistent power and torque for daily farm routines. New Holland officials said the tractor offers an average run time of four hours but that it can “easily” produce eight hours performing tasks with lower energy demand. Potential low-horsepower applications include hay and forage crops, vegetable fields, orchards, greenhouses, dairy and livestock operations, and mixed farm roles.
The T4 features a maximum energy storage capacity of 110 kilowatt-hours and 74 horsepower, along with four-wheel drive, a 12-by-12 transmission, and a clutchless power shuttle reverser. Its autonomous features include driver-assist technologies, live views and maps, and over-the-air software update capabilities.
The company said it can be recharged to 100% power in just one hour using a conventional fast-charging station but that it offers numerous potential recharging options, from the electrical grid and renewable energy systems to biodigesters.
New Holland officials said the vehicle could enable more resilient and sustainable farming while addressing critical industry issues, such as rising equipment ownership costs and chronic labor shortages.
Image Credit: New Holland