New Holland, the globally renowned agricultural machinery brand with deep Italian industrial roots through its integration into Fiat Group and CNH Industrial, has introduced the T6.180 Methane Power tractor to the U.S. market. This groundbreaking machine is the world’s first 100% methane-powered production tractor, following its initial debut in Europe. It is now available at dealerships, appearing at agricultural expos, and playing a role in sustainability research at Michigan State University. Designed as a cleaner alternative to diesel, the T6.180 matches the performance of its diesel counterpart while reducing running costs by 30% and cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 10% to 15%. Its innovative Fiat Powertrain (FPT) engine can run on both methane and compressed natural gas (CNG), the latter making it attractive to municipalities with access to CNG infrastructure. Importantly, the tractor is compatible with compressed biomethane, allowing farmers with biodigesters to become energy self-sufficient by generating their own fuel. Technically, the tractor retains the design of New Holland’s diesel T6 model but features gas injectors, spark plugs, and a maintenance-free three-way catalyst system, eliminating the need for complex diesel exhaust treatments like EGR and SCR. It also operates more quietly and with less vibration than diesel variants. The 6.7-liter, 6-cylinder engine delivers 175 max boosted horsepower and 126 PTO horsepower, and reduces particulate matter emissions by 98% when using biomethane. The tractor has a 49-gallon tank with an optional 71-gallon range extender mounted on the front, which visibly distinguishes it from diesel models. Although methane as a fuel isn’t new to New Holland—several prototypes were developed between 2013 and 2017—the T6.180 Methane Power represents the company’s first fully commercialized step into alternative fuel tractors in North America, with a strategic focus on biodigester-equipped farms and public sector applications. In May, the company donated one of these tractors to Michigan State University for a year-long trial, to be powered by the university’s own anaerobic digester—underscoring New Holland’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and its Italian-driven engineering leadership. (ICE HOUSTON)

Fonte notizia: www.equipmentworld.com