ZF has launched eTERRADRIVE, a fully electric transaxle system for tractors up to 100 kW (≈ 130–140 hp), integrating traction, PTO, hydraulics and rear-lift in a single compact unit designed for battery-electric architectures.
Key to its design are two oil-cooled synchronous electric motors paired with an integrated planetary gearbox — an architecture that eliminates much of the mechanical complexity typical of diesel or hydrostatic transmissions. Thanks to this layout, eTERRADRIVE offers precise torque control, higher energy efficiency and the possibility of regenerative braking. The compact format also allows more space for energy-storage systems (battery or future hydrogen tanks), potentially enabling longer operating times under zero-emission power.
The modular build means the system can be fitted to a variety of tractor platforms — from narrow-track vineyard or orchard machines to conventional arable tractors — all while remaining compatible with standard implement-mounting interfaces, facilitating retrofitting or new-build designs.
At a time when agriculture faces increasing demand for sustainability, emissions reduction and energy-cost control, eTERRADRIVE positions itself as an electric-first alternative — offering full tractor functionality (traction, hydraulics, PTO, lift) without thermal engine emissions.
Bottom Line
With eTERRADRIVE, ZF stakes a claim to the next generation of electric tractors: by integrating all core driveline functions into a scalable, compact electric transaxle, the system provides a realistic path toward zero-emission, high-efficiency mechanisation — potentially reshaping how tractors are built and used in a low-carbon future.
