For the third consecutive year, the Ag Robot of the Year award, co-hosted by Future Farming and World FIRA, is set to recognize the most promising newcomer in agricultural robotics for 2025. This prestigious accolade aims to spotlight innovative solutions that are transforming outdoor crop production through automation. As the agricultural sector increasingly turns to technology to enhance efficiency and sustainability, the award serves as a beacon for farmers seeking cutting-edge tools to optimize their operations.
Five finalists have emerged from an initial pool of eleven candidates, carefully evaluated by the Future Farming editorial team alongside an expert from Wageningen University & Research (WUR). The selection process, which scrutinized robots added to Future Farming’s Buyers’ Guide between February 2024 and January 2025, highlights the growing importance of robotics in modern agriculture. The finalists are FarmRobo’s iMog, Nature Robots’ Lero.03, Odd.Bot’s Maverick, Siza Robotics’ Toogo, and Traktorarvid’s Drever 120.
FarmRobo’s iMog stands out as a fully electric autonomous robot tailored for small-scale farming. Its ability to perform a diverse range of agricultural tasks, coupled with a manual control option via radio, makes it a versatile choice for farmers. The iMog’s compatibility with various plug-and-play attachments and its Power Take-Off (PTO) system signify a cost-effective solution for those looking to integrate robotics into their operations.
The Lero.03 from Nature Robots is another noteworthy contender. This autonomous field robot is designed for long-term use and can handle interchangeable implements, including laser weeding technology. Its advanced sensors and software allow for 3D mapping and assessment of plants, which is crucial for precision agriculture. The robot’s automatic tool change feature enhances its versatility, enabling it to cultivate a wide variety of crops effectively.
Odd.Bot’s Maverick focuses on mechanical in-row weeding, offering a solution that could replace up to 80% of manual weeding efforts for crops like carrots, onions, and chicory. With the ability to operate both day and night, the Maverick can carry multiple weeding arms, significantly reducing labor costs while maintaining efficiency. Its lightweight design and speed—capable of traveling up to 600 meters per hour—underscore its practicality in the field.
Siza Robotics’ Toogo introduces an electric variable track system that adjusts to different planting and bed widths, enhancing its adaptability. Equipped with a front-mounted camera for precise alignment, the Toogo can lift over 1,400 kilograms and accommodate various implements. This flexibility is pivotal for farmers looking to customize their equipment for specific tasks, further promoting efficiency.
Lastly, the Drever 120 by Traktorarvid represents a shift towards smaller, less soil-compacting machines that still meet the demands of large-scale crop production. Its autonomous operation and dual battery system allow for extended use, with one battery charging while the other powers the machine. This design not only enhances productivity but also supports energy management on the farm, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural practice.
While an expert jury will ultimately decide the official winner of the Ag Robot of the Year award, public voting offers an opportunity for the agricultural community to participate in the selection process. The winner of the public vote will be honored at the World FIRA event in Toulouse, France, on February 6, 2025, and will receive a one-year online subscription to Future Farming. Voting is open until February 2, 2025, allowing enthusiasts and professionals alike to express their preferences and support innovation in ag robotics.
The Ag Robot of the Year award not only highlights the remarkable advancements in agricultural technology but also encourages farmers to embrace these innovations, ultimately leading to more sustainable and efficient farming practices worldwide. As the agriculture industry continues to evolve, the recognition of these robotic solutions is crucial in shaping the future of food production.