I’ve often heard that diesel tractors and other farming equipment are unlikely to ever be replaced by electric vehicles when I attend farmers’ gatherings. This appears to be based on beliefs about current battery efficiency and the huge amounts of power needed to run some of this equipment. But a lot of farming is done using smaller equipment like tractors and ATVs that require much less energy to run. Batteries are also increasing tremendously in efficiency, and so what we expect from them today is likely to be an underestimate of the amount of power they will be able to provide in just a few years.
Here are a couple of stories which discuss the growing use of electric tractors and battery-powered yard tools and the economic and health benefits that will result in the use of this new technology. For example, in addition to reduction in the emission of greenhouse gases, we will also experience much less noise and air pollution, improving human and animal health. The benefits are so great that some states and towns are now considering banning gasoline-powered tools altogether because of the reduction in noise and lower emissions.
Modern Farmer: Electric Tractors are Rolling Out in the Field. Here’s What That Could Mean for Farmers.
Yahoo News: States and towns consider banning gas-powered leaf blowers and lawn mowers
Driver-optional e-tractors promise to increase efficiency while cutting emissions. Photography courtesy of Monarch Tractor.
