STEYR and TU Wien launch HYTRAC hydrogen tractor project

TU Wien and STEYR have launched the HYTRAC project, a research initiative aimed at developing an integrated hydrogen-powered energy system for agriculture. The project focuses on combining hydrogen-powered tractor technology with on-farm hydrogen storage and refueling infrastructure.

The tractor utilizes a hydrogen internal combustion engine (H2 ICE) paired with an advanced electric power-split eCVT transmission to enable zero-emission operation and extended working times. To support this, the system includes on-farm hydrogen production using renewable energy sources such as biomass, wind, and solar, managed through AI-optimized energy control.

Funded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG) and the Climate and Energy Fund, the project seeks to demonstrate a scalable pathway toward low-carbon agricultural mechanization and increased energy independence for farms. A real-world demonstration is planned at the Energy Hub Neusiedl to validate the system's performance and carbon abatement potential.