Kubota’s Hydrogen-Powered Autonomous Tractor: A New Step Toward Clean Farming

In September 2025, at Expo 2025 in Osaka (Japan), Kubota unveiled a concept of a driverless tractor powered by hydrogen fuel cells. The machine combines autonomous driving with eco-friendly energy solutions.

The tractor addresses several challenges: labor shortages in agriculture, the urgent need to cut CO₂ emissions, climate change, and the demand for higher efficiency in farming operations.

Design and Key Features

• Energy System. Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity with zero harmful emissions — only water and heat are released. The prototype offers 100 horsepower, with a single refill lasting nearly 12 hours of operation. Refueling is significantly faster than charging electric batteries.
• Autonomy. The tractor is fully driverless, with no cabin. AI-driven cameras and obstacle detection systems ensure safety by stopping the machine when needed. Remote operation is also possible — one operator can control multiple units simultaneously.
• Advantages. Zero emissions, high operational efficiency, reduced labor costs.
• Challenges. Hydrogen infrastructure availability, high production costs, regulatory approval for unmanned machines, and durability in real field conditions.

Kubota’s Experience in Autonomy

Before this concept, Kubota introduced the Agri Robo KVT (Agritechnica 2023) — an autonomous diesel-powered tractor with 100 hp and no operator cabin. This model laid the foundation for moving toward hydrogen-based, fully driverless solutions.

Relevance for Ukraine

Although the hydrogen tractor is still a concept, it points to the future. In Ukraine, successful adoption would require developing hydrogen infrastructure, updating regulations, securing investment, and testing under local field conditions.

How Bas-Agro Can Help with Spare Parts

Even the most advanced machinery needs service and spare parts. Bas-Agro LLC offers a wide range of components for tractors, combines, and other agricultural machinery. The full catalog is available at bas.ua. We supply original and compatible parts, provide expert support, and ensure fast delivery across Ukraine.