increase font size
German manufacturer Horsch says it is at an advanced stage of developing its autonomous planter.
German farm machinery manufacturer Horsch says it is at an advanced stage of developing its aptly named Robo autonomous planter.
The company says it will release more details toward the end of June 2022.
However, recently on social media, a video showed one of the company's large red planters being towed to a field by a truck, then being put through its paces drilling corn. This led chief executive Phillip Horsch to confirm that the Robo planter was undergoing real planting trials.
"The Robo works well, planting autonomously and making turns unaided on the headland etc," he says.
Horsch also noted that safety regulations in Germany are so strict for fully autonomous vehicles that a supervisor/operator had to stay within 600 metres to always watch the machine.
He added that two more autonomous 'concepts' would follow the Robo by the end of the year. The company also manufactures trailed and self-propelled sprayers and is keen to develop robotic versions of these machines as well.
Horsch indicated the autonomous machine was likely to be released for sale in about two years, depending on efforts to change current regulations.
Running on a twin-track system, the Horsch Robo is equipped with a Trimble navigation system and fitted with a large seed hopper that supplies the 24 row Maestro seeding element.
Founded in Cologne, Germany, in 1864, Deutz AG is the world’s oldest engine company, with its engines and systems used in construction equipment, agricultural machinery, material handling equipment, such as forklift and telehandlers, as well as stationary equipment such as gen-sets.
Founded in Cologne, Germany, in 1864, Deutz AG is the world’s oldest engine company, with its engines and systems used in construction equipment, agricultural machinery, material handling equipment, such as forklift and telehandlers, as well as stationary equipment such as gen-sets.
Amazone's ZG-TX combi spreader has been updated with several new features, centred around improved accuracy and easier operation.
The arrival of new F8 and F9 designations for its 8000 and 9000 series forage harvesters, signals a swag of upgrades from John Deere, highlighted by topping the 1000hp mark for the first time.
Waikato-Bay of Plenty farmer Hugh Jackson recently secured this year’s FMG Young Farmer of the Year title in Invercargill.
Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.
For Taupiri dairy farmers Logan and Sian Dawson, their involvement in the NZ Dairy Industry Awards has been a key catalyst in the growth of their business - the experience helping shape how they approach the farm ownership pathway they are pursuing today.
West Otago dairy farmer Luke Kane has been awarded the 2026 Rabobank Dr John Morris Business Development Prize.
OPINION: As the general election approaches, political parties are churning out policies in the hope of attracting more votes.
An LIC bull, Tronnoco AR Sadio-ET S3F, bred by Tony and Keri O'Connor of Tronnoco Farming Co Ltd near Timaru, has won the 2026 Mahoe Trophy.
With forecasters advising El Niño conditions will develop through winter and strengthen into spring and summer, Ballance Agri-Nutrients is encouraging farmers and growers to think ahead about nutrient planning and be prepared to work around challenging weather conditions.
OPINION: The same mainstream media muppets that brought you Jacindamania in 2017 have been flat out pimping for the Opportunities…
OPINION: Your old mate reckons the atrocious way farmers in the UK are treated by their lords and masters in…
