ZF presents eTERRADRIVE, a fully electric driveline solution for tractors up to 100 kW. For the first time, traction, power take-offs (mechanical PTO and working hydraulics), and rear lift are fully integrated electrically into one compact unit. Its modular design enables seamless integration across diverse vehicle platforms, while the space-efficient architecture allows for increased energy storage and extended operating times. Specifically engineered for battery-electric vehicle (BEV) architectures, eTERRADRIVE sets new standards in electric tractor driveline technology. Unveiled at Agritechnica 2025 in Hanover, Germany, the innovation has already earned ZF the prestigious DLG Systems & Components Trophy – Engineers’ Choice 2025, marking a major milestone in the journey toward zero-emission agricultural machinery.
Compact design for maximum flexibility
During the development process, particular emphasis was placed on a compact design that ensures maximum installation flexibility across various vehicle platforms and track widths. Its modular and compact architecture offers a widespread applicability – from speciality crops to municipal and conventional farming operations. Further, full compatibility with today’s tractor-implement interfaces simplifies integration into existing machine concepts.
Advanced electronics for demanding requirements
The electronic control architecture has been extended with a separate control unit (eDCU) that communicates with existing systems (TCU, VDC). Safety-relevant functions have also been integrated to meet high-voltage requirements in off-highway applications. This makes eTERRADRIVE not only powerful but also compliant and future-proof.
Next-generation electrification: eTERRADRIVE
Conventional electrified tractors are mostly based on hydrostatic CVT systems, where an electric motor replaces the combustion engine. While these systems are quick to implement, they involve high mechanical complexity, energy losses, and limited scalability. In contrast, eTERRADRIVE features two oil-cooled synchronous motors and an integrated planetary gear set. The result is improved operating efficiency, precise torque control and demand-based energy utilization.
More space for energy storage and longer operating times
ZF’s eTERRADRIVE delivers full functionality equivalent to conventional tractors – including energy recuperation at full performance. Its compact integration creates space for larger energy storage systems such as batteries or hydrogen tanks, enabling longer zero-emission operation.
Key Benefits
- Full working functionality with zero emissions
- Reduced mechanical complexity and lower maintenance
- Improved energy efficiency through recuperation and switchable auxiliary systems
- Scalable platform for future vehicle concepts
- Compatibility with existing interfaces and safety standards
With eTERRADRIVE, ZF offers a forward-looking system solution for the needs of modern agriculture, without compromising performance or functionality.
Award-winning innovation
Recognizing its pioneering approach to electrified driveline systems, ZF’s eTERRADRIVE has been honoured with the DLG Systems & Components Trophy – Engineers’ Choice 2025. This distinction underscores the innovative strength and practical relevance of ZF’s electrification approach for off-highway applications.
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