Yanmar, the renowned engine and machinery giant, is making significant strides in the realm of autonomous offerings. While the company has long been known for its autonomous tractors featuring diesel engines, it has recently expanded its portfolio to include petrol-powered and electric models.
At the World FIRA event, Yanmar showcased its YV01 autonomous vineyard sprayer, a 25 hp robot designed for the champagne and wine market in France. What sets this field robot apart is its lightweight design and maneuverability, powered by an air-cooled 800 cc 25 hp Honda petrol engine. This choice of engine reflects Yanmar’s commitment to tailoring solutions to the specific needs of different applications.
The YV01 boasts a 200-liter spray tank and impressive capabilities, able to navigate through vineyards with 45 percent slopes and 20 percent lateral slopes at speeds up to 4 km/h. Equipped with advanced technology such as RTK-gps, LiDAR, and sonar sensors, the robot can detect vine trees with precision. Additionally, the YV01 offers versatility, as it can be fitted with cultivators instead of a sprayer, expanding its functionality in vineyard management.
While the YV01 has already made its mark in the market with prices starting at €110,000 and 10 machines currently in operation, Yanmar is not resting on its laurels. The company recently unveiled its electric e-X1 field robot concept, signaling a shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. This vision includes a battery electric-powered derivative of the YV01, featuring a variable track width and swappable batteries for enhanced efficiency.
Yanmar’s strategic moves towards offering a diverse range of power sources, from diesel to petrol to electric, underscore its commitment to providing innovative solutions for the agricultural sector. The company’s acquisition of Dutch battery technology startup ELEO Technologies and German marine electric propulsion manufacturer Torqeedo further solidify its position as a key player in the transition towards cleaner technologies.
Looking ahead, Yanmar’s involvement in projects like the Italian SMASH initiative, where it co-developed a modular robotic platform for mobile manipulation in high-value crops, indicates that more groundbreaking robot concepts may be on the horizon. As the agricultural industry continues to embrace automation and sustainability, Yanmar’s autonomous offerings are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of farming practices.