Combining innovative technologies in a unique, sustainable and potentially zero emission package, Steyr has created the Steyr Konzept, encapsulating a future vision for agricultural machinery.
Unveiled for the first time at Agritechnica, this concept tractor, designed by CNH Industrial’s Design Center, is centered around a modular hybrid electric drive, comprising a highly efficient diesel engine, a generator and five electric motors, which are individually controlled. The innovative vehicle architecture offers a range of benefits, including enhanced operational flexibility and comfort.
Advanced Steyr hybrid technology
The Steyr Konzept’s electric motors are networked to ensure power is directed exactly where needed, and an e-torque boost, fed from a central battery, supplies additional energy when operating at peak power. This system results in highly efficient, electric continuously variable drive, with fewer moving parts – as the mechanical transmission and hydraulic components have been eliminated – to deliver optimal energy flow with reduced power losses. For even more efficient operation, energy can also be recovered and stored when travelling downhill.
When required, the concept vehicle can easily be charged via a standard charging socket. Tractor hydraulics as well as the PTO (power take off, used for powering mounted implements) are electrically driven. Electrified implements can also be powered by either a high voltage (700V) or low voltage (48V) connector. Four independent electric wheel hub motors are supplied with the precise amount of energy from the battery or generator according to their real-time requirements which delivers outstanding traction and precise steering.
Zero-emission operation
In pure electric mode, the Steyr Konzept enables zero-emission operation – in terms of both exhaust gas and noise, making it ideal for use in municipal environments as well as when working in proximity to livestock or in confined spaces on the farm.
Unsurpassed handling
The concept tractor’s superior handling comes courtesy of immediately available torque, which also ensures near-instantaneous vehicle response, perfect when working in variable conditions, such as when baling or conducting road transport. The use of wheel hub motors lowers the vehicle’s overall center of gravity, improving stability as well as maneuverability thanks to individual wheel torque deployment and four wheel steering. The operator environment is enhanced thanks to individual wheel suspension for a smoother ride, and large glazed windows with integrated cameras ensure better visibility and safety.
A mobile digital farm office
The Steyr Konzept features innovative precision farming technologies: a drone equipped with crop sensors flies ahead of the tractor during field work, transmitting real-time data back to the cab, meaning operating parameters can be modified based on actual field conditions.
A mobile, digital farm office empowers operators to undertake farm management directly from the cab thanks to an integrated display on the right-hand window. A head-up display on the windscreen projects all key vehicle parameters for instant viewing.
This study lays the foundations for the future of tractor design, thanks to a fresh look at the technical constraints through the three lenses of efficiency, sustainability and comfort.
