CSIR-CMERI Scientists Develop ‘Made in India Electric Tractors’

CMERI Scientists develop pure electric tractors. Source: PIB

West Bengal-based Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI) has now developed an indigenously developed fully electric tractor named for farmers. CMERI operates under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) of the Indian government. CMERI has named the electric tractor ‘CSIR Prima ET 11’. 

CMERI claimed that the electric vehicle was produced only with Made in India components. “Since the main purpose of the tractor is to cater to the demand of agriculture field application, it has been designed in such a way that its dynamics, weight distribution, transmission engagements, then lever and pedal position everything has been well designed and considered,” a media statement from the Ministry of Science and Technology said.

It also said that another unique point of the new technology is that it was crafted to make it more women-friendly. “For this, we have given special attention to ergonomics, for e.g.: All the lever, switches etc has been placed for an easy approach to the women. Further, to minimize the effort, many mechanical systems are being replaced with electronic switches for easy operations,” the statement said.

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The makers of the electric tractor said that the beneficiary farmers could charge the tractor using a conventional home charging socket. The electric tractor allows users to charge it within seven to eight hours. This tractor could also be used on the field for more than four hours. 

“The tractor is being designed with a robust and efficient transmission system by using the semi-synchronized type gearing system. The design helps to achieve the desired efficiency at minimal cost. The tractor is equipped with best-in-class hydraulic with a lifting capacity of 500 kg or more. It implies that the tractor can lift implements required for field operation and hauling operation,” the ministry said. 

The scientists at CMERI claimed that they used a Lithium-ion battery with Prismatic cell conformation. This electric tractor was launched by Union Minister for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh recently. 

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CSIR CMERI has a history in designing and developing tractors of various ranges and capacities. Its journey starts with the first indigenously developed SWARAJ Tractor in 1965, followed by a 35hp Sonalika tractor in 2000 and then a Small diesel tractor of 12hp Krishishakti in 2009 for small and marginal farmers demand.