ITS Develops Electric Boat Tractor for Peatland Farming

Indonesian researchers at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) have engineered an innovative electric boat tractor specifically for peatland agriculture. This new machine promises substantial reductions in operational costs and energy consumption compared to traditional fossil fuel-powered tractors.

According to Prof. Bambang Sudarmanta, manager of the Science Techno Park (STP) Automotive Workshop team, the project was inspired by data indicating low productivity on Indonesia's peatlands. The team sought a solution to these challenges, resulting in the development of the electric boat tractor.

"Unlike conventional tractors, this vehicle is designed like a boat to move optimally on wet land without the risk of sinking," Bambang explained. The electrification system integrates flotation principles, agricultural mechanization, and electric power to boost land productivity. "This system will minimize soil structure degradation and support sustainable, low-emission agriculture," he added.

The tractor features a 10-kilowatt electric motor, an electronic display for real-time monitoring of battery status, temperature control, and voltage. It operates at an optimal voltage of 72 volts and 32 amperes, providing approximately 10 kW of power. With a 140 Ampere-hour battery capacity, it can run for 3 to 4 hours on a full charge. Initial tests suggest it can plow one hectare of land in about 56 passes with its 1.8-meter-wide plow. The team is continuing development, having recently added a cooling system to address overheating issues encountered during field trials.