(Farm Equipment/Cummins) Alternative power solutions such as hybrid, full electric, natural gas and hydrogen are piquing the interest of agricultural equipment manufacturers. Several tractor OEMs are working to perfect the concept of a full electric machine for instance. While these technologies do offer operational benefits, the cost impact means it will take time before they are widely adopted in the industry. The variation in machine types, duty cycles, load factors and operational factors means that one power source will not suit all. A range of solutions is needed, and diesel still has a strong role to play.
The diesel engine industry has made huge strides to significantly reduce engine emissions since regulations began in the 1990s. Today’s products that meet EPA Tier 4 Final are light years ahead of their predecessors in technology and capability. They are clean, efficient, reliable and flexible power sources suitable for the widest range of off-road equipment.