New Holland: Pininfarina designs electric straddle tractor concept for vineyards

The concept was developed according to New Holland specifically for the requirements of the narrow vineyards that are typical for premium wine-growing regions such as Champagne, Médoc, and Burgundy. In these operations, high-quality wines are produced from grapes that are grown in rows less than one and a half meters wide, often on steep slopes and small vineyards. Under these conditions, the grapes are harvested by hand, and most of the work to care for the vines is carried out with a tractor that drives over the rows.

Pininfarina has developed a futuristic design with a comfortable and safe cabin. Kevin Rice, Pininfarina Chief Creative Officer, explains: “We developed the Straddle Tractor in a joint team with New Holland, a concept that offers a completely new experience. We have utilized our skills acquired over more than 90 years of car design to combine a unique and distinctive style with top performance, always putting people at the center. With New Holland, we have found a partner who shares our values and our innovation-oriented approach; we are confident that the new concept will be able to set the future direction for this sector."

The Design: Inspired by Champagne Flutes

According to Pininfarina, the design of the front section was inspired by the shape of a champagne flute - tall, wide at the top and tapering at the bottom. This is intended to allude to the premium winemakers who are to form the main customer base. The surrounding glass is designed to provide the operator with an excellent view of the vines and the surroundings. The shape of the cabin, which is inclined in the direction of travel, adds to the dynamics of the vehicle. The entire exterior design features flowing and dynamic lines inspired by automobiles. The exposed frame gives the vehicle a tool-like appearance. The interior, which is easily accessible thanks to the large single door and the rotating seat, offers a highly comfortable environment. The use of wood adds to the luxurious ambiance of the cabin and creates a connection to the wood of the wine barrels with which the customer works.

Carlo Lambro, President of the New Holland brand, stated:

“It is the result of New Holland's extensive experience in viticulture around the world, combined with the inspiring innovation of the legendary design house Pininfarina. It is a testament to New Holland's constant pursuit of developing new solutions to meet the specific needs of our customers, and it heralds a further expansion of our extensive portfolio - the most comprehensive in the industry.”

What does that mean?

Agriculture is also being electrified: this also applies to such specialized products as straddle tractors, with which grapes can be harvested electrically much more quietly than with combustion engines.