The LIFE ATENA project takes a decisive step towards increasingly sustainable viticulture with the launch of field tests carried out directly in the heroic vineyards of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene area.
The two next-generation tractor prototypes were officially presented during the final monitoring visit, held on Friday 11 April, in the presence of Agnese Roccato and Mario Lionetti, respectively Project Monitor and Project Officer for LIFE ATENA.
The field trials involved testing a full hybrid model, capable of reducing CO₂ emissions by 30% compared to conventional machinery, alongside a full electric model designed to completely eliminate direct emissions, achieving a 100% reduction.
Each prototype was successfully tested in combination with five electrified tools – leaf remover, brush cutter, pre-pruner, sprayer, and cultivator – specifically developed to minimise the use of lubricating oils and thereby reduce the risk of environmental contamination during agricultural operations.
The field trials have been, and will continue to be, carried out in the vineyards of three wineries that are representative members of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG Consortium.
Noise pollution was also monitored during testing, confirming a noticeable reduction in sound emissions, to the benefit of both operators and the surrounding environment.
The entire project will culminate on Thursday 3 July in Conegliano with the final event, hosted at CIRVE – the Interdepartmental Centre for Research in Viticulture and Enology. The event will be open to technicians, companies, researchers and stakeholders, offering an important opportunity to present the project’s outcomes, witness the innovations in action, and explore concrete prospects for increasingly efficient and environmentally sustainable agricultural mechanisation.