Subsidies keeping wind, solar generation viable
OPINION: I recently wrote an open letter to the Prime Minister because at a recent Federated Farmers meeting, Chris Luxon told me wind and solar generation is not subsidised.
The tractor is a collaboration between Deutz AG and the Rostock University, using a converted standard diesel engine, and achieving big reductions in pollutants but with no loss in performance.
The prototype 5120C, which can also run on renewable natural gas, was first tested in September 2015, both parties claiming success and many insights into the development of gas engines.
They used a diesel powered Deutz TCD 3.6L engine, replacing its injection system with spark ignition, and adding seven tanks for CNG storage of 236L, most notably in the cab's rear C pillars. Researchers commented there was room to mount one further tank to take capacity to 316L (60kg) of CNG, which equated to around 77L of diesel.
Although this gives a shorter range than the diesel burner, CO2 emissions were down by up to 14%, NOx was reduced by over 90%, and particulates were reduced dramatically. Interestingly, the tractors already meet the yet-to-be-introduced Tier V emission levels, without the need for any Ad-Blue or diesel particulate (DPF) treatments.
