AUGA GROUP AB AUGA group officially launched its hybrid tractor, AUGA M1, for professional use from the first batch of production. Developed and assembled in Lithuania, the tractor is powered by biomethane and electric drives and is able to operate continuously for up to 12 hours. Compared to diesel-powered analogues, one such tractor reduces carbon dioxide emissions by up to 100 tonnes a year, AUGA group data shows.
According to the CEO, AUGA group received proposals to manufacture the first batch of tractors not only from Lithuania, but also from foreign manufacturers. But AUGA group was keen to ensure that these technologies developed in Lithuania would be assembled in the country as well. So for this first batch AUGA group chose the Rokiškis Machine Factory, which has many years of experience in the production of agricultural machinery.
Differences between the factory tractor and the conceptual model: During tests, AUGA group engineers found ways to reduce energy losses and boost the overall efficiency of the electric drive. They also managed to lighten the tractor's construction, resulting in lower energy consumption and less pressure on the soil during operation. The first production batch consists of three tractors.
Each includes different components. Serial production will use a combination of the technological solutions that showed the best results over this year's production tests. The factory version of the AUGA M1 hybrid tractor incorporates components from world-renowned manufacturers, such as a Ford internal combustion engine and a CLAAS cab.
AUGA group also updated the design of the AUGA M1 tractors. According to Kestutis Jušcius, this version of tractor's design will be the basis for further production. Unique solutions: Developed by Lithuanian engineers, the AUGA M1 hybrid tractor is unique for its solutions to problems that the agricultural machinery manufacturers have not managed to solve – achieving long hours of operation and convenient refuelling.
The AUGA M1 tractor uses a hybrid biomethane-electric fuel system. During the operation of the tractor, an internal combustion engine powered by biomethane generates energy and transmits it directly to electric motors that rotate the wheels. Under normal conditions which do not require high power, the tractor accumulates the generated energy reserve in its batteries.
The system does not waste energy under low-load conditions, uses a relatively small but efficient engine, and is capable of producing enormous power when needed.
