One of the most interesting aspects of full electric propulsion lies in its flexibility of installation. Traditional powertrains indeed impose rigid mechanical connections that limit layout possibilities. Electric propulsion, on the other hand, allows for a wider range of design schemes, also due to the possibility of distributing the machine’s power among multiple units onboard where it’s most beneficial.
“Onox” by Raumideen, telescopic loaders set the example
An example in this regard is the design layout of electric telescopic handlers, propelled by two motors, one for traction and one for operation that drives the hydraulics. It further facilitates the work of technicians to transmit energy to the motors through flexible connections, the cables, so to speak. Also, the possibility of eliminating or minimizing the transmission should not be overlooked, reducing it to a mechanical group with only two or at most three gears. If the future of low-power agricultural mechanization is full-electric, it is therefore expected that alongside current machines, new and unconventional proposals will emerge, such as the “Onox” tractor developed by the German startup Raumideen.
“Onox” by Raumideen, Designed for versatility
It is a vehicle structurally different from traditional tractors as it is built on a metal frame that supports a four-post cabin and integrates four electric motors inside, one for traction, two for powering the power take-offs, and the fourth for operating onboard hydraulics. The first is credited with a power of 50 kilowatts, approximately 68 horsepower, and a torque of 300 newton meters, the two that operate the power take-offs deliver 25 kilowatts each, approximately 34 horsepower, while the power of the third is unknown, but it provides an oil flow rate of 65 liters per minute. The latter powers up to four distributors, a rear lift with a capacity of 31 quintals and a front lift with 13 quintals, replaceable with a front loader with a capacity of 800 kilograms.
The traction is dual, and so is the steering, allowing a machine with a wheelbase of 220 centimeters and a length of almost five meters to have a turning radius of only three and a half meters. Weighing 42 quintals, the tractor receives energy from a battery pack operating at 48 volts and capable of 50 kilowatt-hours, storage that according to the manufacturer ensures an operational autonomy that can even reach up to eight hours if maximum performance is not continuously required, with charging times of six hours.
Batteries where they’re needed
A peculiar feature of “Onox” is the possibility to install the battery pack in three different positions depending on the site’s use, also having the option of making quick changes to the batteries as they are depleted. It is worth noting the absence of transmission and the concentration of electrical service groups on the platform in front of the cabin, a surface that can also be used to transport maximum loads of eight quintals. Overall, an interesting project that will have to demonstrate its reliability in practice, as “Onox” is still just a prototype.
Title: “Onox” by Raumideen, the unconventional electric tractor
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