Fuel prediction for specific tractor models

Generalized models for fuel consumption are useful for budget and management scenarios, but may not have the ability to compare fuel consumption for several potential tractor configurations such as turbocharging and air densification models. The objective of this article is to develop a method that uses the Nebraska Tractor Test Lab (NTTL) data for a specific tractor model to predict fuel consumption for full and partial loads and for reduced throttle conditions. Using these equations, the fuel savings can be predicted for different operating and loading conditions. This method is compared with the generalized model and actual NTTL fuel consumption data. The results showed that 88% of tractors had an improved prediction with the new methodology.