I was reading this on Tim's weblog and thought about a new type of tractor. Build a sled, much like a military tank, with an engine and GPS control equipment in the center on standard connections in the back. Put tandem connectors on the fronts to allow daisy-chaining like trains do. It would use treads like a tank, but designed for use in the mud. Use proximity sensors and software to help it make the turns; treads can turn tighter than standard wheels.

If it used standard components, it could be made cheaply enough to buy more than one for farms. The lower component cost would make up for the GPS add-ons. Also, replacement parts would be easy to install and maintain, plus switchable between units.

Comments?