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Source: The post is based on the article “CSIR-CMERI Developed Compact Electric Tractor- CSIR PRIMA ET11” published in PIB on 30th August 2023
What is the News?
Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI) has developed a compact electric tractor called CSIR PRIMA ET11.
Why was there a need to shift to Electric Tractors?
Agriculture is the main livelihood for 55% of India’s population, contributing significantly to the GDP and feeding 1.3 billion people.
Tractors are vital for increasing agricultural productivity through mechanization.
CSIR CMERI has a history of designing and developing tractors, starting with SWARAJ in 1965, Sonalika tractor in 2000 and Krishishakti in 2009 for small farmers.
The shift towards electric tractors is crucial due to the environmental impact of traditional diesel tractors, which consume 7.4% of India’s annual diesel and emit pollutants.
Electrification of tractors supports India’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions and achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070, as announced at COP26.
What is CSIR PRIMA ET11?
CSIR PRIMA ET11 is an indigenously designed and developed Electric Tractor mainly to cater small and marginal farmers of India.
Developed by: Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI)
Key Features: Made entirely with indigenous components and technologies.
– Designed for agriculture with a focus on women-friendly features. For eg: All the levers, switches etc have been placed for easy approach to the women.
– Can be charged using a home socket, providing more than 4 hours of field operation.
– Equipped with efficient transmission, robust design, and hydraulic system for various tasks.
– Utilizes state-of-the-art Lithium-ion batteries with deep discharge capability.
– Features a V2L port for using tractor battery power for secondary application.
