Kubota launches electric tractor

Kubota Ushers in a New Era with Electric Tractor Innovation

Kubota – September 5, 2022

Kubota Corporation proudly proclaims its position as the pioneering Japanese manufacturer to introduce fully electric tractors to the market. Responding to Europe’s strong commitment to achieving carbon neutrality, Kubota will initially offer a select number of its compact, electric LXe-261 tractors (referred to hereafter as “LXe-261”). Beginning in April 2023, these innovative machines will be available through a long-term rental program specifically tailored for local European municipalities.

Aligned with its 2021 Environmental Vision, Kubota is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. As a key step in reducing CO2 emissions from its products, Kubota is actively investing in the advancement of electric, hybrid, fuel-cell, and alternative power technologies to forge a path toward decarbonized power sources.

Throughout Europe, compact Kubota tractors are already widely utilized by municipalities and public organizations for maintaining parks and managing green spaces. Increasingly stringent environmental regulations, such as the planned ban on diesel vehicles in Paris, France by 2024, are driving demand for alternative solutions. This has prompted local authorities to seek viable options like electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel-cell vehicles (FCVs). Responding to this evolving landscape, Kubota has been diligently researching and developing electric tractors, conducting thorough field trials within the city of Paris.

A significant hurdle in the development of electric tractors has been ensuring sustained operational endurance. The LXe-261 addresses this challenge with a high-capacity battery providing quick, one-hour recharging, and delivering an average of three to four hours of continuous performance. This allows for convenient midday recharging, enabling uninterrupted afternoon use after a morning's work, a feature informed by insights gained during the LXe-261 trials with local customers.

The LXe-261 not only delivers the power required for tasks like mowing and hauling within parks and natural reserves, but also maintains a compact footprint comparable to its diesel-powered counterparts.

Through the long-term LXe-261 rental program, Kubota will actively gather valuable customer feedback, identify real-world challenges, and gain crucial insights. This knowledge will be instrumental in advancing the development of environmentally responsible products and expanding its range of sustainable solutions.