Craig Rupp, CEO of Sabanto and a trailblazer in autonomous farming, is providing a unique perspective on the practical realities of autonomy in agriculture. With a wealth of experience operating a fleet of autonomous tractors, Rupp’s insights are invaluable for understanding the current landscape and future of autonomous farming.
In the evolving world of agricultural autonomy, two distinct paths are emerging: purpose-built, multifunctional field robots and standard tractors retrofitted with autonomy. Rupp, who has been at the forefront of this technology, believes that retrofitting standard tractors with autonomous systems offers a more practical and accessible solution for farmers today.
Multifunctional field robots, while representing the future of agriculture, may take up to 30 years for widespread adoption. These compact, energy-efficient machines are designed for autonomy from the ground up and promise significant advancements. However, Rupp draws a parallel with Precision Planting, a company that revolutionized agriculture over the past two decades. Greg Sauder, the company’s founder, emphasized an incremental approach to innovation, allowing farmers to upgrade their equipment step-by-step rather than requiring a complete overhaul.
Rupp suggests that autonomy companies could adopt a similar strategy, offering farmers a way to innovate without starting from scratch. This approach would enable farmers to test autonomy gradually, reducing the risk associated with high-cost, purpose-built systems.
Even industry giants like Deere and CNH Industrial have faced challenges with multifunctional designs. CNH’s cabless Magnum tractor, for instance, raised questions about its practicality. Farmers preferred the idea of retrofitting autonomy onto their existing tractors rather than investing in a completely new machine. Similarly, Deere’s electric, 2-track autonomous tractor faced criticism for its size, weight, and cost, which are significant barriers for farmers.
Rupp believes that retrofitting standard tractors with autonomous systems is a more practical solution. Feedback from the Dutch NPPL project supports this view, with many farmers preferring to retrofit existing tractors step-by-step. This approach offers several advantages:
Farmers can leverage their existing relationships with equipment and dealer networks, ensuring continuity for parts, service, and support. Retrofitting allows farmers to test autonomy without committing to the high cost of purpose-built systems. Retrofitted tractors integrate seamlessly with existing implements, avoiding the need for an operational overhaul. Retrofitted tractors retain manual operability, offering a fallback when technology faces challenges. Retrofitted systems maintain a tractor’s core functionality, preserving value in the secondary market.
This incremental approach aligns with how farmers typically approach major investments: cautiously and deliberately. Retrofitted autonomy offers a way to future-proof operations while minimizing risk.
Rupp’s perspective highlights the importance of practicality and cost-effectiveness in the adoption of autonomous farming technologies. While multifunctional field robots may represent the future, retrofitted autonomy is the solution for today. As innovation progresses, these approaches may converge. For now, the smart money is on solutions that enhance existing systems.
Rupp’s insights underscore the need for a balanced approach to agricultural autonomy, one that considers the practical realities of farming and the need for incremental innovation. His bi-weekly opinion pieces offer a valuable perspective on the reality of autonomous farming and what it could mean for farmers today.