14 AVENUES WINTER 2019 batteries to experience worst-case scenario loads. In addition to battery data, the machine will also provide information on heat generation and cooling, space require- ments and safety considerations. Recharging onboard eliminates additional infrastructure costs tied to separate charging stations and having to handle battery packs. Caterpillar states that it is focusing on such quick charging of the batteries that an oper- ator can take a short break and come back to a charged machine. Bayer CropScience reports in a recent company blog that Kramer, Weidemann and Avant all offer battery-powered tractor- loaders, and that an electric farm machine called the ‘Multi Tool Trac’ will be launched in 2019 or 2020 by a firm in the Netherlands. It’s a 210 hp six-cylinder machine with a 30-kWh battery pack that runs the four electric motors on each wheel, and a diesel engine as a back-up generator. John Deere has produced a prototype battery-powered tractor called the SESAM, which provides the equivalent of 200 hp and four hours of operation per charge. John Deere states on its website that the SESAM “produces 130kW of continuous power and is based on the 6R Series tractor chassis, using an adapted DirectDrive stepless trans- mission, with a speed range from 3 to 50kph at full power. The tractor develops high torque at low speeds and a maximum output of around 400hp.” Looking forward, Caterpillar perhaps echoes the thoughts and plans of many equipment manufacturers, noting that the chemistries and technologies behind battery development are evolving rapidly. “Change is inevitable,” the firm states, “and [our] development team will continue to evaluate these changing technologies.” • TRANSPORT TECHNOLOGY A Cat battery electric proof of concept Load Haul Dump (LHD) moves muck in a Canadian mine