Demand for electric compact tractor soars

In a short time, the demand for Knegt's electric compact tractors took off. We see them more and more often at green professionals, nurseries, recreational parks and agricultural companies. Even the Efteling is already using them. On the one hand, the popularity is explained by the unique price of this green tractor. On the other hand, it meets the increasing demand for sustainable machines that are low-noise, low-vibration and do not emit harmful gases.

Hans Heijmans, director and co-owner of Knegt Quality Tractors: "An electric tractor for this price cannot be found anywhere in the world. Our price level is at or even below the level of comparable diesel tractors. This is because we are way ahead in terms of innovation. Indeed, major tractor manufacturers such as Massey Ferguson, Fendt and John Deere focus primarily on the heavier tractors of 100hp and above. And the American companies Monarch and Solectrac have not yet reached this point with their technology. Our ambitions are high. We want to scale up to threefold in the next few years, both in total numbers and in the share of electric tractors. In terms of innovation, we just want to become the Tesla of compact tractors," laughs Heijmans.

Knegt receives many enthusiastic comments from users in a wide range of industries. "Thanks to its quiet operation, it is ideal for work in residential areas or other noise-sensitive environments. This has been part of the reason that, for example, garden and landscape architect VIC Landscapes works with our electric tractor." Those working within horticulture know the importance of protecting crops from air pollutants: "We recently had a grower who purchased our electric tractor out of fear of diesel fumes settling on his produce." It can give nurseries another benefit. This is because the Occupational Safety and Health Administration does not allow diesel tractors to be worked on in enclosed areas when employees are present at the same time. This means that certain activities can only be carried out outside working hours. With an electric tractor, that's a thing of the past. "Speaking of exhaust fumes, we have already been told several times by riding stables that the horses in the trough are coughing less since they have been using the electric tractor."
Recreational areas

The Efteling has sustainability high on its agenda and wants to disturb guests as little as possible during the day with noise or odor pollution. This is why they already have two electric tractors from Knegt in use. On request, a personalized watering arm is attached to these tractors, so that all trees and plants can be watered from high to low. Demand from vacation parks is also increasing. "This sector is also investing a lot in sustainability. Clean air and tranquility for vacationers is at the top of their list and is the reason no cars are allowed at many parks. The tranquility and absence of unhealthy air is exactly why we are also seeing increasing demand from sports facilities and firms that install artificial turf."

Various subsidies and tax benefits can be claimed. These include the energy investment deduction, the small-scale investment deduction and the environmental investment deduction. "If people want to know more about this, feel free to call us. This also applies, of course, to other questions. We are happy to share our knowledge and, of course, completely without obligation."

Knegt produces two electric models, with 45hp and 55hp, and the choice of a cab and/or front loader. With a wide range of implements and accessories, there is an electric tractor for every job. Working a whole day is no problem at all. The option of an additional battery pack ensures that working time can be as much as nine hours.