Manufacturers are building to a future where alternative fuel vehicles run alongside diesel. Electric vehicles may seem like a front-runner at the moment, but they aren’t likely to replace your whole fleet anytime soon — if ever. Electric-powered, high-horsepower tractors are still a long way off due to battery density, says Jon Gilbeck, global manager for construction equipment product management and electrification lead for John Deere.
“To give an example, consider our 8R tractor running at about 75% load over 14 hours. In order to do that with full battery electric, you’d have to have a tractor two times the size, two times the weight, and four times the cost of what it is today,” says Gilbeck.
While it might not be possible to run a 300 hp tractor off battery power yet, major manufacturers are getting their feet in the door on the technology.
Questions About Battery
Most customers in agriculture and construction are asking three questions when it comes to electric vehicles: How long is the battery going to last, how long is it going to take to charge, and how expensive would it be to replace the battery, says Zimin Vilar, construction and forestry battery electric platform manager for John Deere.
Denne historien er fra Mid-November 2023-utgaven av Successful Farming.
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Denne historien er fra Mid-November 2023-utgaven av Successful Farming.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
THE WOMAN BEHIND 'THIS FARM GIRL COOKS'
Coming up with quick, on-the-go meals is one of the many talents Deanne Frieders brings to the table.
HOW TO GROW A DOUBLE CROP OF CATTLE FEED
This Iowa farmer has perfected an annual system with four forage species that maximizes tonnage, resources, and feeding quality.
GOOD FENCES MAKE GOOD NEIGHBORS
The doctrine of title by acquiescence determines the legal boundary line between two properties and overrules the boundary listed in the deeds.
TIME WELL SPENT
Senator Charles Grassley reflects on careers in farming and government.
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This young farmer uses regenerative practices and diversification to set up his farm for the future.
THE MEXICO MAIZE
Navigating Mexico's ban of genetically modified corn.
NEVER TOO BUSY TO LEND A HAND
Between their cattle operation, crops, and off-farm jobs, Dean and Tillie Thompson have plenty to do, but they still find time to serve their community.
WHAT SHOULD THEY EXPECT?
Problem: Two parents are conflicted about meeting their kids' inheritance expectations.
TIPS FOR A SAFE HARVEST
Follow these steps to protect you and your machinery while in the field this autumn.
9 NEW DAIRY PRODUCTS
See the latest innovations displayed at World Dairy Expo.