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Electrification and Smartification for Modern Tractors: A Review of Algorithms and Techniques

Author

Listed:
  • Chaoxian Zhang

    (College of Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China)

  • Jun Li

    (College of Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
    Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, China)

  • Chuxi Li

    (College of Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China)

  • Peihan Lin

    (College of Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China)

  • Linlin Shi

    (College of Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
    Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, China)

  • Boyi Xiao

    (College of Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
    Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510640, China)

Abstract

Agricultural tractors account for a substantial portion of greenhouse gas emissions in the farming sector, necessitating the development of sustainable machinery solutions. This study systematically reviews the latest advancements in electrification and smartification technologies for modern tractors, with a particular focus on algorithmic control strategies and their applications. Architecturally, the study provides a comparative analysis of four key configurations, pure electric, series hybrid, parallel hybrid, and series-parallel hybrid, detailing their respective advantages and challenges in energy efficiency and operational performance. From an algorithmic perspective, three primary methodologies—rule-based control strategies, optimization algorithms, and reinforcement learning—are examined for their applicability in energy management and control systems. The research further explores the integration of intelligent systems in unmanned farming scenarios, addressing critical challenges such as adaptive path planning in unstructured environments and multi-machine collaborative operations. A case study on battery-electric tractors demonstrates practical advancements in battery technology and energy management systems. Lifecycle cost analysis confirms the long-term economic viability of electrification, while outlining a forward-looking technological roadmap for sustainable and intelligent agricultural machinery.

Suggested Citation

  • Chaoxian Zhang & Jun Li & Chuxi Li & Peihan Lin & Linlin Shi & Boyi Xiao, 2025. "Electrification and Smartification for Modern Tractors: A Review of Algorithms and Techniques," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 15(18), pages 1-30, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jagris:v:15:y:2025:i:18:p:1943-:d:1749290
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    References listed on IDEAS

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