At Agritechnica, the world’s largest agricultural trade fair, the spotlight this year is firmly on autonomy. From 9 to 15 November in Hanover, the event will showcase a range of autonomous field robots, artificial intelligence, and digital farm networks, highlighting how technology is reshaping modern agriculture.
Autonomous machines are no longer just a futuristic concept. Seeding bots, weeding robots, and self-driving harvesters are becoming a reality, with many systems now ready for real-world use. According to the show organizer, DLG, farmers will soon be able to operate these robots around the clock, making automation accessible even to smaller operations. However, there are still challenges to overcome. Regulations, liability issues, and machine certifications need further development before autonomy can truly take off.
The latest robots are equipped with advanced technologies like cameras, lidar, and GPS, combined with artificial intelligence. These capabilities enable them to navigate fields, identify weeds, and perform tasks such as spraying and harvesting autonomously. Safety is a major focus at the fair, with virtual fencing and object recognition systems designed to prevent accidents. Ensuring that robots can safely operate in environments with children, animals, and other obstacles is crucial.
Despite the advancements in autonomy, farmers remain at the helm. The technology is designed to assist, not replace, the decision-making process. Farmers will still decide when and how to plant, spray, or harvest. To support this, Agritechnica is hosting numerous knowledge sessions and live demonstrations on precision farming and robotics. These sessions will also explore the impact of this technology on farm labor and management, providing farmers with the tools and knowledge to adapt to these changes.
One of the key questions at the fair is the cost of these technologies. Manufacturers are presenting various business models, including outright purchases, leasing options, and pay-per-use services. The latter, often referred to as “robot-as-a-service,” allows farmers to pay for the technology by the hour, making it more accessible to medium-sized farms. The focus is not just on the high-tech aspects but also on ensuring that these innovations provide a return on investment.
As agriculture continues to evolve, the integration of autonomous machines and AI offers significant potential for increased efficiency and productivity. However, it also brings challenges that need to be addressed. The discussions and demonstrations at Agritechnica will play a crucial role in shaping the future of farming, ensuring that technology serves as a tool to enhance, rather than replace, the expertise of farmers.