Electric drivetrains for agriculture fit existing machines with ZF eTRAC

(Image courtesy of ZF Group)
ZF’s eTRAC portfolio tackles a persistent problem in agricultural electrification: how to swap out combustion drivetrains without forcing OEMs to redesign every tractor-implement connection. The eTRAC eTD is a compact central drive built around a partially integrated electric motor, keeping the standard PTO interface intact while freeing up space inside the chassis. It’s available in low and high voltage configurations, letting manufacturers scale the architecture across different machine classes without re-engineering mounting points.
For applications needing variable traction, ZF offers the eFAD front axle drive. Unlike fixed all-wheel systems, the eFAD allows independent torque control at the front wheels. That means tighter turning circles on larger machines and better grip distribution in soft field conditions, particularly useful when working headlands or confined yard spaces. Operators get smoother control, and the variable torque split cuts wheel slip, which directly improves fuel efficiency and tractive effort.
ZF’s TERRACOM monitoring system runs embedded in the transaxle, pulling data from onboard sensors to track component wear in real time. The system flags potential failures before they strand machines mid-season, feeding service teams with usage history that cuts diagnostic time. It also supports warranty claims and failure analysis by logging exactly how each driveline has been operated. The result is shorter repair windows and fewer unplanned stops during peak workload periods.
The eTRAC platform reflects where off-road electrification is heading: modular systems that don’t force compromises between performance and serviceability. ZF is banking on OEMs wanting electric drivetrains that plug into existing machine designs without wholesale redesigns of everything downstream.
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