1959 Electric Tractor

[D2Cat]

This Allis Chalmers tractor was one of the first electric tractors in 1959. It produced electricity from fuel cells, which unlike a battery where electrical energy is stored, these generated electrical energy from chemical energy in the fuel cells. The electric motor powering the tractor was rated for 20 horsepower. It’s displayed at the McLeod County Historical Society Museum in Hutchinson MN, home of “Orange Spectacular”, the largest Allis Chalmers show in the world.

 

[GeoHorn]

Can anyone identify what implement it is pulling in the photo..?

 

[Tropical Jack]

Looks like it could be a hay rake.

 

[rc51stierhoff]

I’d guess a tedder, but I’ve honestly not seen an implement that looked quite like that. Not sure if it the angle of the picture or what, but what looks like hoses in the implement sort of makes me question what that is.

 

[DaveFromMi]

I wonder if this tractor ever made it into production. I don't think there was a hydrogen infrastructure for farmers in 1959.

 

[A1cnc]

Just watched this video. Allis chalmers used propane for their fuel cells on the tractor.

Can anyone explain WHY we are still forced to use internal combustion engines when this technology was at this stage of development in 1959?
Could it be $$$$$$$?

 

[mikester]

Just watched this video. Allis chalmers used propane for their fuel cells on the tractor.

Can anyone explain WHY we are still forced to use internal combustion engines when this technology was at this stage of development in 1959?
Could it be $$$$$$$?

Because ICE are 30% efficient thus making them more cost effective to operate. Gasoline is easier to store, has higher energy density and doesn't require pressure vessels.

 

[RCW]

Unfortunately I don’t recall the details of it, but at the Car Museum I’m associated with, we have an electric car, vintage 1903. Waverly (?).

Looks like a phone booth on wheels to me. Driver sits in back seat and passenger in front facing to the rear. Tiller steer.