© MAG/Oliver Mark

German outfit Tadus hopes to become the Tesla of the tractor world, having all but completed the development of its first battery-electric model.

This has been undergoing rigorous testing since the government-backed concept was unveiled at Agritechnica two years ago.

The T16.20 is capable of a continuous output of 110hp, with intermittent 160hp peaks. Top speed is 40kph.

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One of several novel features is the interchangeable under-cab battery unit.

The 200kWh lithium-ion array – which weighs about 1.3t – can be swapped in about five minutes, immediately doubling the quoted five- to eight-hour run time.

According to Tadus, operating costs are 70% lower than a conventional diesel tractor for owners with access to their own renewable power supply.

Those charging their batteries from the grid could save about 30%.

Propulsion is provided by three motors – one for each axle, and another for the rear pto – while the cab is sourced directly from Claas.

The chassis is the only component built in-house by Tadus.

The company plans to start taking orders for series production machines next year.

They will cost about £265,000, plus another £80,000 for a second battery pack.