On this day in 1919, the Tractor Test Laboratory opened its doors at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), marking a significant milestone in agricultural machinery testing.
The lab was established following the passage of the Nebraska Tractor Test Law, which required all tractors sold in the state to be tested for performance and safety. This move helped assuage concerns that the equipment delivered was what manufacturers promised.
Today, nearly all tractors manufactured in the U.S. are tested at this campus facility, ensuring they meet high performance and safety standards.
The lab conducts rigorous tests to evaluate tractors on various metrics, including power output, fuel efficiency, and safety features. It also supports research in agricultural engineering and develops new testing methodologies. In addition to its testing and research functions, the lab serves an educational role, providing students with hands-on experience in tractor testing.
With state-of-the-art testing equipment and continuous upgrades, the UNL Tractor Test Laboratory remains at the forefront of agricultural machinery testing.
This institution continues to play a crucial role in advancing agricultural technology, ensuring that tractors deliver the performance and safety that farmers and ranchers depend on.
