Which alternative drives and fuels will power tractors and other agricultural machinery in the future? As the end of fossil diesel draws closer, this is one of the key questions currently shaping the agricultural sector. Agritechnica 2025, taking place from November 9 to 15 at the exhibition grounds in Hanover, Germany, will provide answers.
At the world’s leading trade fair for agricultural machinery, manufacturers will present the latest production-ready and near-series developments, showcasing the state of the art in alternative drive systems for agricultural equipment. At the DLG Spotlight “Drive Experience,” visitors will be able to test drive such systems.
At Agritechnica 2025, visitors will encounter a wide spectrum of solutions, from engines powered by environmentally friendly liquid fuels to gas-powered systems and battery-electric drives. These technologies not only differ in energy source but also require rethinking machine architecture, infrastructure and energy logistics on farms.
Exploring the full range of alternatives
One approach under discussion is the continued use of diesel engines, enhanced through hybridization or electrification. While this can improve efficiency, it still relies on fossil fuels and offers limited CO2 savings.
A more climate-friendly option is operating diesel engines with alternative liquid fuels such as vegetable oil (P100), biodiesel, hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO), and synthetic fuels. Among these, HVO stands out as a drop-in fuel compatible with existing engines, though its availability is currently constrained by high demand in other sectors.
Looking further ahead, synthetic fuels produced from water and CO₂ using renewable electricity offer CO2-neutral operation but remain energy-intensive and costly to produce.
Gas and Electric Drive Systems
Internal combustion engines powered by gaseous fuels like methane and hydrogen are also gaining attention. However, their lower energy density and complex storage requirements pose challenges for practical use in agriculture.
Battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) are increasingly viable for smaller machines up to 130hp, such as compact tractors and loaders. These can be recharged during downtimes, making them suitable for certain applications. For larger machines, however, the energy demands, and battery weight remain prohibitive.
Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), which generate electricity from hydrogen onboard, offer another electric alternative. Yet, their complexity, cost, and infrastructure needs currently limit widespread adoption.
A variety of alternative drive concepts are under consideration for agriculture, but a universal solution like the traditional diesel engine is not (yet) among them. The current range spans from combustion engines using alternative liquid and gaseous fuels to battery-electric vehicles. In contrast, a conventional diesel engine powered by fossil diesel—even when supplemented with electric components—offers little benefit in terms of CO2 reduction.
Multi-fuel engines capable of running on fossil diesel, vegetable oil, or biodiesel—either pure or in any blend—are also being explored. Which technology or combination of technologies will ultimately prevail remains to be seen.
Alternative drives and fuels will be a key focus at Agritechnica 2025. This year, significantly more production-ready or near-series machines will be on display in Hanover than two years ago. Interest will be high, as political frameworks make the transition unavoidable in the medium to long term. For reasons of cost and practicality, farmers are likely to adopt one or two alternatives—provided the technologies are affordable or the additional costs are offset, for example through subsidies.
Agritechnica’s technical program includes alternative drives
At Agritechnica 2025, alternative drives and fuels will be a key focus. This year in Hanover, significantly more production-ready or near-series machines will be on display compared to the last edition.
The DLG Spotlight “Drive Experience” offers visitors an initial orientation. Here, interested farmers can experience alternative drive technologies live in action and, with prior appointment, even test them themselves. As part of the Drive Experience, the world’s leading trade fair will showcase innovative machines powered by electric, hydrogen, and hybrid drives. Visitors will learn how these sustainable drive systems offer efficiency potential and significantly reduce CO2 emissions.
Test drives will take place daily from 9:30 to 17:00 p.m. on the outdoor area next to Hall 26. Registration for test drives is available at the booths of participating exhibitors. More information on the Drive Experience is available on-site.
