Tractor energy storage

Can electric agricultural tractors be used as energy storage systems?

Similar to urban EVs, several energy storage systems such as batteries, ultracapacitors, and fuel cells can be used in electric agricultural tractors. This association ensures a stable power supply and quick response to demand (Melo et al. 2020).

Can a tractor battery sustain a continuous energy supply?

A typical characteristic of farming activities is that during specific periods of planting, cultivation, and harvest, the tractor has to work 10 h or more in a field. Thus, the onboard battery, even one with the highest energy density and largest technically feasible capacity, cannot sustain a continuous energy supply.

Why do we need an electric tractor?

An electric tractor can prevent ancient agricultural practices from generating nature degradation due to inadequate technologies, and allows an energy transition because this electric system avoids the consumption of fossil fuels.

What is onboard battery storage in a tractor?

Thus, the tractor's onboard battery has to enable it to cover the distance to and from the work area (transit phase) and perform the agricultural work at the crop fields. This onboard battery storage represents a challenge for an all-electric tractor as well as for any electric vehicle.

How to calculate electric energy cost of tractor operation per hour?

The electric energy cost of tractor operation per hour at an average power level was established as follows: (12) E E = A P L * H R E * P * e − 1 where P = electric cost per kWh in the grid; e = efficiency of recharging (84%, ); and EE= electric energy cost per tractor working hour (considering recharging by the grid).

What are the advantages of electric drives in tractor and agricultural machinery?

Incorporation of electric drives in tractor and agricultural machinery presents advantages in terms of increased energy efficiency and expanded functionalities. Higher efficiency means reduction in fuel consumption and subsequent decrease in CO 2 emission. New functionalities improve work quality and increase operator comfort.