Back from the positive field tests in Italy, Spain and in the United Kingdom, the innovative 100% methane powered New Holland prototype T6.180 tractor has been tested at the La Bellotta farm located near Turin by German customers as well as by the young farmers recently awarded in Brussels. Source: Stackyard
The T6 Methane Power Tractor Prototype is New Holland’s second generation T6.180 Methane Power tractor, which is a key element of New Holland Agriculture’s Clean Energy Leader strategy – launched 10 years ago to increase farming efficiency and sustainability.
It can be powered with methane or biomethane, and has been previewed and tested by some customers at the La Bellotta farm, located near Turin, which is the first pilot Energy Independent Farm.
Fitted with 9 tanks able to hold approx. 300 litres (52 kg) of methane and a 6 cylinder, 179 HP max power engine, the New Holland T6.180 Methane Power tractor was equipped with a ripper.
These tests reconfirmed the positive feedback received from testing in Italy, Spain and in the United Kingdom, which not only demonstrate the operational capacities of the tractor but also its qualities in fuel cost savings of 25 to 40% in comparison to diesel, and its sustainability with 80% less polluting emissions if compared to the equivalent diesel model.
If biomethane is used, the tractor’s global carbon impact is virtually zero.
In Italy the T6 Methane Power was tested with good results by the Maccarese farm near Rome to roll the fields before and after seeding.
In Spain, the tractor worked at the grape and olive producer Bodegas Torres, which has been committed to using alternative energies and reducing polluting emissions since 2008.
In the United Kingdom, the prototype was tested successfully by Wyke Farms in Somerset, which is one of the country’s biggest cheddar cheese producers and owner of a biogas plant, and by Worthy Farm, home to the famous Glastonbury music festival.
Overall, the tractor has clocked more than 100 hours of operation performing different activities: cultivation, road transport and work with a front loader.
Testing of the New Holland T6.180 Methane Power will continue at La Bellotta during July and August. In September the prototype will tour other European markets.
