World’s first hydrogen-powered driverless tractor
November 2025
Electrical Power & Protection
Japanese multinational corporation, Kubota has unveiled the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell tractor with a self-driving function. The tractor combines AI-driven autonomous driving with zero-emission hydrogen power to address labour shortages and sustainability in agriculture.
Decoding the system
The 73 kW hydrogen-powered tractor runs on a fuel cell stack, providing farmers nearly half a day of uninterrupted operation per refuelling. This runtime is critical for agricultural use where long working hours and reliability are essential. The tractor is 4,4 m long, 2,2 m wide, and 2,3 m tall. It has no driver’s seat, but can be controlled remotely from anywhere within network range.
Kubota’s hydrogen model also offers a faster turnaround between refuelling, higher power output and zero carbon emissions. Beyond performance, the tractor has advanced technology such as AI-powered cameras capable of detecting people or obstacles in the field and stopping automatically to ensure safety.
It also supports remote operation, enabling offsite monitoring and control. Japan’s farming sector faces worker shortages and an ageing population, and Kubota’s new tractor offers a smart fix. It’s efficient, eco-friendly and packed with modern tech to help farmers stay productive.
Inspired by the past
The unmanned version of the tractor is inspired by its manned fuel cell-powered counterpart. This hydrogen-powered tractor delivered around 44 kW, with three tanks above the cab, enabling four hours of quiet, low-vibration operation after a quick 10-minute refuel. It was designed with fuel cell tech like Toyota’s Mirai and tested in real farm tasks such as plowing.
More about hydrogen fuel cells
Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity by directly combining hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water and heat as byproducts. This makes them a clean and sustainable energy source with zero emissions. Recent advancements have pushed the technology forward, with high-durability platinum catalysts that extend lifespan, thinner membranes that improve efficiency and advanced bipolar plates that enhance performance.
A promising future
Kubota is planning to test the new model in the fields. The company says that unlike battery-electric tractors, its hydrogen model provides higher power output and longer uptime. “We will soon conduct a demonstration experiment and continue development towards practical application,” said Isamu Kazama, one of Kubota’s lead developers. If successful in field trials, this tractor could mark a turning point in sustainable, tech-driven agriculture worldwide.
For more information visit
engine.kubota.com/en/technology/hydrogen-engine/"
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