DESIGN AND ENGINEERING of agricultural tractors have come a long way since late 1800 when the first ones were introduced for the farming community. Off-highway vehicle manufacturer CNH Industrial which offers a range of products under its New Holland and CASE IH brands, is bringing an element of flair to the agriculture and construction-equipment segment with its contemporary design emphasis that aids functionality as well as safety in these utilitarian vehicles. David Wilkie, Industrial Design Director, CNH Industrial explained how good design can be attractive, yet cost effective, as well as the emerging design possibilities with the increasing electrification of the off-highway segment.
How critical are design and form factor for offhighway segment vehicles?
I think design is critical. Anything that has been made, first needs to be designed, and it is a case of designing it for its function while remaining within the cost constraints. But nevertheless, good design is important to determine the success of machines that we make. I think worldwide, it (design) needs to be linked directly to the use and cost of these machines. In this changing world, design plays a key role, and it has become so important that we leverage design to make our machines better, more pleasurable to use, and much more functional as well.
How has design in the off-highway segment evolved over the years?
This story is from the 15th May 2023 edition of Autocar Professional.
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This story is from the 15th May 2023 edition of Autocar Professional.
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