Innovative Biogenic Hydrogen-Powered Tractor Unveiled in Austria
Key Ideas
  • Developed in collaboration between CNH and TU Wien, the FCTRAC hydrogen-powered tractor project aims for end-to-end sustainability, utilizing a BioH2Module for hydrogen production.
  • The tractor, with 95 kW power matching its diesel equivalent, features a fuel cell and electric drive systems powered by a high-voltage battery and compressed hydrogen storage.
  • The project received attention at the Austrian State Prize for Technology awards, highlighting its role in sustainable and climate-neutral mobility technologies.
  • Marco Lombardi, Head of Case IH and STEYR brands EMEA, expressed excitement about the project's impact on the industry and CNH's leadership in alternative fuel innovations.
The collaborative project between CNH's St. Valentin tractor plant and TU Wien in Austria has resulted in the unveiling of the innovative hydrogen fuel cell-powered STEYR FCTRAC tractor. This project was part of a national research initiative supported by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency and led by TU Wien's Institute of Powertrains and Automotive Technology. The tractor, based on a standard STEYR 4140 Expert CVT model, was designed to be sustainable from end to end, employing a BioH2Module to produce hydrogen from biogenic sources. The hydrogen production process is highly efficient, requiring only 15-16 kg of dry biomass to produce hydrogen equivalent to around 3.5 liters of diesel, with the only emission being water vapor. Despite its sustainable nature, the tractor matches the power output of its diesel counterpart, making it suitable for demanding agricultural work. With a 14 kWh high-voltage battery and a 400 V electrical system, the FCTRAC boasts 95 kW power. The fuel cell and electric drive systems replace the diesel engine, while a compressed hydrogen storage system and high-voltage battery take the place of the fuel tank. Marco Lombardi, representing Case IH and STEYR brands in EMEA, highlighted the project's recognition at the Austrian State Prize for Technology awards, emphasizing its importance in promoting sustainable and intelligent mobility technologies. He praised the project's embodiment of the industry's pursuit of a sustainable future and CNH's leading role in alternative fuel innovations, expressing anticipation for continued work on the project.
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