NOVUM TECH

NOVUM TECH AND PARKER HANNIFIN: A CLOSE PARTNERSHIP FOR THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURAL ELECTRIFICATION

This lightweight tractor features an optional reversible driver’s seat. Equipped with a 40 kW electric powertrain, it retains the typical characteristics of isodiametric tractors, maintaining the same dimensions as the traditional version and being fully compatible with existing equipment.

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The goal was to electrify a combustion tractor while keeping costs manageable. This project faced the challenge of operating at low voltage, which inherently limits power output. Balancing cost efficiency with performance requirements was crucial. The team needed innovative solutions to ensure effective electrification without compromising on functionality.

Two motors NX8M are installed because of the low voltage: the first, at the rear and connected directly to the gearbox, manages traction. The second, located at the front and connected to the pump, manages the hydraulics for the implements and power steering, incorporating effective temperature management through natural and liquid cooling.

The dual-motor solution improves performance while controlling costs, maintaining optimal traction and hydraulic function. The electric tractor operates 7 dB quieter than its diesel counterpart, eliminates CO2 emissions, and is ideal for urban applications with reliable operational range.

A 100% Electric Tractor

BCS (Bonetti, Castoldi, Speroni), named after its founders, is an Italian industrial company specialized in the design and production of agricultural tractors, tillers, mowers and haymaking equipment. Federico Soresina, BCS product development and after-sales service manager, collaborated with Novum Tech to electrify a tractor using Parker Hannifin motors and pumps.

Novum Tech is a French start-up founded in 2020 in Goncelin, Isère, near Grenoble. It specializes in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries and the electrification of off- and on-road machines, both new and retrofitted, including agricultural, public works, materials handling and other special-purpose machines. Novum Tech is a Parker distributor partner, certified CMEC (Certified Mobile Electrification Center).

Mickaël Robert, CEO and CTO of Novum Tech, began electrifying the BCS tractor almost a year ago, resulting in the first 100% electric tractor, the e-Vanguard.

The Challenge

“One of the challenges of this transformation was maintaining a low voltage of 48 volts,” explains Mickaël Robert, which limited our power. The first prototype was completed after six months, followed by an equal duration of fine-tuning and the addition of features like an air-conditioned cabin. “Having the engine at the front facilitated integration,” notes Mickaël. Modifications were made to the hood while retaining the mechanical transmission, focusing on power regulation and temperature management of Parker NX8M motors, which are among the first used at these power levels. Novum Tech also adjusted the mechanical interface size on the traction motor. Romain Bernollin, Industrial Automation Sales Manager from Parker, emphasizes, “Modifications must not deviate too much from catalog products for better cost management.”

The Solution

Mickaël Robert states, “We decided to implement two NX8M motors due to the low voltage: one for traction and the other for hydraulics to manage tools and power steering. This provides more options than the internal combustion model, as a single motor would require higher voltage.” Romain Bernollin adds, “These motors are designed for maximum power density and can be cooled by natural convection. Performance can be enhanced with liquid cooling, which is necessary in some low-voltage applications, as seen in the e-Vanguard tractor.” The hydraulic pump associated with the hydraulic motor is also from Parker Hannifin: a PGP.

BCS is fully satisfied with the result and plans to electrify more machines: “We manufacture power tillers, professional mowers, and special machines for haymaking. We’re also working with Novum Tech to develop a tractor equipped with a third engine to simplify transmission,” notes Federico Soresina, BCS product development and after-sales service manager.

The Benefits

Close collaboration between Novum Tech and Parker Hannifin has resulted in a versatile tractor with various configurations: high for lowland work and low for mountainous areas to lower its center of gravity and prevent tipping. It can attach a wide range of implements to the PTO, with autonomy varying from a few hours for intensive work to a full day for towing a trailer. “In an urban environment, green services typically operate for a few hours a day on small surfaces, making the electric tractor ideal. A truck transports it from one location to another,” explains Federico Soresina.

Another advantage is the low noise level; the electric tractor operates at 7 dB lower than its internal combustion counterpart and 9 dB lower while driving. “One customer is particularly interested in this feature because his vineyard is next to a campsite.” Additionally, the absence of CO2 emissions makes it a preferred solution for greenhouse work, tunnel work, and enclosed areas. A model with hoops instead of a cab has been developed for greenhouses.