A Chinese company recently unveiled the country’s first-ever self-driving electric tractor. The Honghu T70 created quite a stir when it was showcased to the world, mainly because of its promises of capable farming operations that are free from the need of human intervention or control.
The Honghu T70 has several stellar highlights and provides an ample view of what the future of farming may look like. Powered by a lithium battery and a permanent magnet synchronous motor, the autonomous tractor is fully capable of carrying out a vast range of farming operations based on pre-work inputs set by the owner.
The Honghu T70 can put many out of a job. But then again, it can also massively ease farming operations. This is because the Honghu T70 is equipped with a dual-motor configuration. The first allows for vehicle movement while the other is deployed for farming-related activities. Additionally, the tractor is capable of operating entirely on its own with a run-time of up to six hours before requiring a charge.
The Honghu T70 is incorporated with several sensors and a control system that is powered by artificial intelligence (AI). This allows it to monitor soil conditions, crop health and ambient conditions in order to customize farming practices. It is also equipped with GPS technology which helps in allowing it to navigate fields entirely on its own.
China is the World’s largest electric vehicle (EV) market and has several firsts to its credit. But India isn’t too far behind. The country’s EV space is primarily powered by electric two and three-wheelers while there are several options for those wanting an electric car as well.
Manufacturers in the logistics and farming space too are bringing out all-electric models with companies like Tata Motors, Eicher, Ashok Leyland, Mahindra, Omega Seiki, Montra Electric, Sonalika and others offering options galore across sub-segments.
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