Hydrogen Fuel Cell-Powered Autonomous Tractor

Hydrogen Fuel Cell-Powered Autonomous Tractor Kubota has introduced the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell-powered autonomous tractor. The prototype was unveiled in Japan in September. The 100-hp tractor can run up to 12 hrs. on a single refill, producing power with water as the only emission. It uses a solid polymer fuel cell to convert compressed hydrogen into electricity. Refueling takes only minutes. The prototype measures 14.4 ft. long, 7.2 ft. wide and 7.5 ft. high. It has no cab or operator station and is designed for autonomous or remote operation. It uses cameras, sensors and AI to detect and stop when it encounters people or objects. Remote operation enables off-site supervision. Unlike most battery-powered tractors, it uses a single motor for drive implement power. The body of the tractor contains two large hydrogen storage tanks and the fuel cell. They ride above two electric motors. One is dedicated to the 4-WD and conventional drive system, and the other powers the PTO. Kubota introduced a manned hydrogen-fueled tractor in 2024. The autonomous version was introduced in Japan, where labor shortages are a major problem in agriculture. Kubota previously introduced the X tractor, a fully electric, autonomous concept. Agri Robo KVT, capable of operating independently or remotely, was another response to the problem. The company is working with Agtonomy, a U.S.-based company, to integrate autonomous features into diesel tractors for specialty crops. They’re also developing retrofit systems for partial automation. Future plans for the prototype include field demonstrations and verification of autonomous operation and hydrogen supply methods for agricultural use. The goal is to confirm its suitability for farming operations while advancing research and development. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Kubota Tractor Corporation, 1000 Kubota Dr., Grapevine, Texas 76051 (ph 888-458-2682; www.kubotausa.com).

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