Industry Briefing

A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.

AgXeed T2 7-SERIES and Carbon Robotics LaserWeeder Showcase Effective Autonomy

AgXeed T2 7-SERIES and Carbon Robotics LaserWeeder Showcase Effective Autonomy

Danish farmer Axel Månsson has been utilizing the AgXeed T2 7-SERIES alongside a Carbon Robotics LaserWeeder since April. After several months of practical use, he evaluated the autonomous tractor on nine criteria, including setup, reliability, capacity, costs, and integration into his farm operations. Månsson awarded the system an impressive 4.5-star rating on most aspects, highlighting its potential to reduce labor costs. This collaboration between the AgXeed T2 7-SERIES and the LaserWeeder is significant as it demonstrates the effectiveness of autonomous technology in organic farming. Månsson operates one of Scandinavia's largest organic vegetable farms in Jutland, Denmark, where the integration of these technologies can lead to improved efficiency and sustainability in agricultural practices. Looking ahead, the continued performance of the AgXeed T2 7-SERIES and LaserWeeder will be closely monitored, particularly in terms of labor savings and operational efficiency. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Field robots autonomous tractors Laser weeder organic farming Smart Farming
AgXeed Introduces Retrofit Kits for Autonomous Tractors and Machines

AgXeed Introduces Retrofit Kits for Autonomous Tractors and Machines

AgXeed has launched retrofit kits, the VCU and TCU, to convert existing tractors and machines into autonomous units. This initiative caters to contractors, growers, and livestock farmers who wish to enhance their machinery fleet without investing in new field robots. The kits utilize AgXeed's TraXwise software for efficient task management and operation. The significance of this development lies in AgXeed's unique approach, which emphasizes transparency in task execution, allowing for better planning and efficiency. The VCU connects to tractors via the AEF Isobus TIM system, enabling autonomous operation similar to AgXeed's AgBot. This innovation is particularly relevant for large agricultural operations, as demonstrated by Wimex, the first German customer to adopt the AgBot T2. Looking ahead, AgXeed plans to commercially release the VCU in 2027, with a limited production run available this year. The pricing for the VCU and associated services has been disclosed, highlighting the investment required for farmers to transition to autonomous operations. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Autonomous vehicles agxeed autonomy
AgXeed Showcases Autonomous Potato Harvester at PotatoEurope Trade Fair

AgXeed Showcases Autonomous Potato Harvester at PotatoEurope Trade Fair

AgXeed demonstrated its autonomously operated potato harvester, the AgBot W4, at the PotatoEurope trade fair held on September 9 and 10 in Springe, Germany. This innovation highlights the industry's shift towards increased efficiency through autonomy and advanced camera technology, although such practices are not yet commonplace. The integration of autonomy in agricultural machinery is crucial for enhancing productivity, as evidenced by AgXeed's efforts to reduce the need for additional operators during harvesting. Other manufacturers, like Beinlich and Ropa, are also exploring autonomous solutions, such as the RainRover hose reel irrigator and automatic follow-steering for harvesters, respectively. Looking ahead, the agricultural sector is expected to continue its focus on automation and efficiency improvements. While no further demonstrations of camera-controlled sorting were presented at PotatoEurope, the ongoing development of autonomous technologies suggests a promising future for the industry. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Field robots Beurzen Spuitmachines Werktuigendragers
Agxeed W4 Autonomous Robot Enters Dairy Farming Trials in the Netherlands

Agxeed W4 Autonomous Robot Enters Dairy Farming Trials in the Netherlands

Dutch dairy farmer Joram Hofman is currently testing the Agxeed W4 autonomous robot for mowing, tedding, and raking grass on his farm. This initiative, in collaboration with NPPL+R and Agxeed, highlights the potential of autonomous field robots in dairy farming, traditionally dominated by arable farming technologies. The integration of the Agxeed W4 into Hofman's highly automated dairy operation, which includes Lely milking robots and feeding systems, demonstrates a shift towards more efficient farming practices. Hofman utilizes data from these robots to optimize cow rations, leading to improved feed efficiency, although he notes that milk yield has not significantly increased. Looking ahead, the ongoing trials of the Agxeed W4 could pave the way for broader adoption of autonomous technologies in dairy farming. As farmers like Hofman seek to enhance productivity while managing labor challenges, the role of such robots in forage production will be crucial. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.

Crop solutions autonomous farm equipment autonomous tractors farm robots field robots gps
VIDEO | AgXeed Series 7 tested in the field: can it handle heavy tillage and tight headlands?

VIDEO | AgXeed Series 7 tested in the field: can it handle heavy tillage and tight headlands?

The AgXeed AgBot Series 7 has been put to the test on a French arable farm, showcasing its capabilities in real field conditions. In a recent video demonstration, the autonomous robot effectively operated a heavy cultivator while skillfully navigating headland turns, a crucial aspect of its practical autonomy. This performance highlights the potential of agricultural robotics in enhancing farming efficiency and precision. The testing took place in October 2023, emphasizing the ongoing advancements in agricultural technology aimed at improving productivity and sustainability in farming practices.

Field robots automation autonomous tractors autonomy precision farming
AgXeed Series 7: first field impression on 500 ha farm highlights power and capacity gains

AgXeed Series 7: first field impression on 500 ha farm highlights power and capacity gains

AgXeed has launched its T2 Series 7 autonomous tractor, which boasts enhanced power, increased lift capacity, and extended working hours, all without a price increase. The new model was rigorously tested on a 500-hectare (1,235-acre) farm in southwest France, demonstrating its ability to perform effectively under real field conditions and manage heavier tillage operations. As the agricultural industry seeks innovative solutions, the focus now shifts from the tractor's capabilities to its operational efficiency and longevity in the field.

Field robots automation autonomous tractors farm management machinery precision farming
RobotToday Initiative

Robotics needs a service framework.

RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.

inJoin the RobotToday community on LinkedIn

Daily robotics news, in-depth analysis, conference highlights, and discussions with professionals worldwide.