At Agritechnica 2025, New Holland is unveiling a hybrid full-size telehandler
prototype that redefines practicality in alternative-fuel farm equipment. This
breakthrough combines the autonomy and power farmers need—without the run-time
limitations of battery-only machines or the reliance on fossil-fuels of diesel models.
Its maximum lift height/weight figures of 7-9m/4.2t and industry-first
combination of electric and natural gas as power sources position it as the first
machine of its kind designed specifically for typical agricultural applications. It achieves
this without compromising lift c
apacity, height, power, or autonomy compared to a
typical mid-size farm handler.
Currently at a testing phase, the machine features an electric drivetrain connected
to a supplementary battery/electric power system. It operates fully electrically for
up to four hours on medium-heavy tasks and up to six hours on light-duty cycles. During
heavy-duty work, a four-cylinder F28 methane gas engine from FPT provides
supplementary power and simultaneously recharges the battery. Flexibility is further
extended through battery fast-charging.
The electric-methane configuration makes all-day independent operation possible
without refueling/recharging. Electricity generated on-farm via solar or anaerobic
digestion (AD) plants can also be used to recharge the batteries, for fully renewable
fueling. This also means that AD plants using farm-grown crops and waste can fuel their
own machine, using technology developed by Bennamann, in which CNH owns a majority
stake.
The 2.8-litre engine generates 75kW/100hp and operates at a fixed speed to minimize
fuel consumption while maintaining performance, helping to extend service intervals and
maximize efficiency. There is 84kW/112hp rated output available at the hydraulic
pump and 115kW/154hp rated available for traction. A 70kWh battery provides
electrical power in both hybrid – when the engine speed is maintained at its most
efficient working point – and full electric modes.
Field tests showed up to 70% saving in energy usage compared to diesel alternatives,
and 30% better performance, efficiency and autonomy than a comparable dieselpowered
vehicle during typical material handling operations.
The electric powertrain improves productivity: traction control operates independently
from attachment control, shuttling response is adjustable, and there are fewer moving
parts – which also reduce vibration and enhance both reliability and comfort. Operators
and those around the handler – including animals in livestock buildings – also benefit
from minimal noise and zero emissions.
“With this prototype, New Holland shows its continuous commitment to the “Clean
Energy Leader” strategy, building on our leadership in alternative fuel machines,” says
Marco Gerbi, New Holland T4 and T5 Tractor, Loader & Telehandler Product
Management. “Our aim is to help our customers boost farm productivity and profitability by broadening
our range of alternative fuel machines that do not compromise efficiency or productivity
yet help to minimize agriculture’s carbon footprint.”