In the heart of Turkey, a startup is challenging the status quo of autonomous farming technology. Orbiba Robotics, a fledgling company, is proving that affordable, accessible farm robots aren’t just the domain of major players with hefty price tags. Their latest innovation, the EcominoS, is set to revolutionize the way small and medium-sized organic and regenerative farmers approach their work.
The EcominoS, a compact and versatile field robot, made its debut at the recent World FIRA event, turning heads and sparking conversations. Measuring a modest 106 cm in length, 65 cm in width, and 95 cm in height, this battery-powered vehicle weighs in at 110 kilograms. Despite its size, it packs a punch, with a battery life that supports 6 to 8 hours of continuous work on a single charge.
The EcominoS is designed to tackle a variety of tasks, from cultivating and seeding to plant monitoring and load transportation. It can clear field paths at a rate of up to 1.5 acres per hour and even employs Swiss CERN’s structured laser beam technology for precise weeding. Navigating through market gardens and nurseries with ease, the robot utilizes stereo cameras, LiDAR, and RTK GPS to map its path.
But what truly sets the EcominoS apart is its affordability. Orbiba Robotics has priced the robot at a competitive €18,000, making it an attractive option for farmers who have previously been priced out of the autonomous farming market. This pricing strategy is not just a marketing ploy; it’s a commitment to supporting the growth and sustainability of organic and regenerative farming practices.
Currently, the EcominoS is in its beta programme, where Orbiba Robotics is collaborating with organic and regenerative farmers to enhance its performance and features. This hands-on approach allows the company to gather real-world feedback and refine the robot’s capabilities based on the actual needs of its users. Farmers who participate in the beta programme will have the opportunity to purchase the EcominoS at the same €18,000 price point, making it a win-win situation for both parties.
The response to the EcominoS has been overwhelmingly positive. Orbiba Robotics has already sold 12 units, with another 37 preordered by farmers from countries including Belgium, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Turkey. The company is also actively seeking distributors to expand its reach and impact.
The implications of the EcominoS are far-reaching. By making autonomous farming technology more accessible, Orbiba Robotics is empowering small and medium-sized farmers to increase their efficiency, reduce their labor costs, and ultimately, enhance their profitability. This, in turn, can lead to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector, where organic and regenerative farming practices can thrive.
Moreover, the EcominoS serves as a testament to the power of innovation and entrepreneurship. Orbiba Robotics has shown that it’s possible to disrupt an industry dominated by major players, simply by focusing on the needs of the end-user and offering a competitive price point. As the company continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that the future of farming is looking brighter—and more automated—than ever before.