NEW HOLLAND has received the prestigious Good Design Award for its methane powered 'concept tractor'.

The international panel of design professionals, leading industry specialists, design journalists and critics selected the machine, which "reimagines tractor design, reveals a connected future and pioneers alternative fuel technology in agriculture" from a record number of submissions from the world’s leading manufacturers and industrial and graphic design firms from over 47 countries.

The award recognises the most innovative and cutting-edge industrial, product, and graphic designs produced around the world, and the selection is based on the criteria of quality design of the highest form, function, and aesthetics a standard beyond ordinary consumer products and graphics. As a winner of the award, the Methane Powered Concept Tractor will feature in the Good Design Yearbook for 2018-2019.

New Holland brand president, Carlo Lambro, commented: “This prestigious award recognises New Holland’s innovative and pioneering approach to futuristic design – the use of technologically advanced materials to enhance the operating environment, the ultimate visibility of the fully glazed cab, the ergonomic, intuitive and connected operation provide a glimpse into New Holland’s vision for the future of tractor design. The Methane Powered Concept Tractor pushes the boundaries of alternative fuel and agriculture technologies to deliver a cutting-edge solution for sustainable and efficient farming.”

In the MPCT, CNH Industrial’s design team reimagines tractor styling with a fully integrated design approach where the hood, front and rear fenders, and the fuel tank create a flowing, stylish look. Wrap-around glazing provides 360-degree visibility, with a 20% increase in the glazed area compared to a standard tractor. The floating glass domed roof with fully integrated Precision Land Management receiver provides a completely panoramic design – an agricultural first. The interior of the cab offers a clutter-free operating environment, with all essential controls on the integrated armrest and additional parameters controlled through the interactive headliner display.

The tractor features a powertrain that uses an efficient combustion technology specifically developed for agriculture applications by FPT Industrial, a brand of CNH Industrial that has pioneered natural gas traction for more than 20 years. The six-cylinder NEF methane engine delivers the same power and torque as its standard diesel equivalent, together with up to 30% running cost savings and around 50% reduction in drive-by-noise.

In real field conditions, the methane powered concept tractor produces at least 10% lower CO2 emissions and reduces overall emissions by 80% compared to a standard diesel tractor. Its environmental performance further improves when fuelled by biomethane produced from crop residues and waste from farm-grown energy crops, which results in virtually zero CO2 emissions.