FIRA USA, the premier event for agricultural robotics, is set to showcase more than 35 robots this year, offering growers a firsthand look at the latest advancements in agricultural technology. The event, taking place at the Yolo County Fair in Woodland, California, from October 21 to October 23, will feature demonstrations and displays of robots capable of performing a wide range of tasks, including weed control, fertilization, harvesting, picking, and seeding across various crops and environments.
Among the notable robots on display is the Autogenbot Automist ST500x, a mobile robot designed for orchard farmers. This versatile machine can operate both remotely and autonomously, featuring high-pressure mist sprayer arms, a 500 kg payload capacity, a 1.5-ton towing capacity, and an impressive runtime of 8 to 12 hours with a full payload. Orchard farmers using this robot can expect to cut input use by a significant 50 to 70%, highlighting the potential for substantial cost savings and increased efficiency.
Gwendoline Legrand, co-director at GOFAR/FIRA, emphasized the grower-centric approach of the event, stating that several product launches are expected, including robots from Bonsai Robotics, Aigen, FJ Dynamics, Niqo Robotics, and Solinftec. Growers will take center stage to discuss their experiences, needs, and feedback on robotics, covering critical topics such as automating harvest, weed management, vineyard automation, and the role of data in decision-making.
Walt Duflock, VP of Innovation at Western Growers, underscored the event’s focus on addressing labor challenges, which he described as the toughest issue facing California’s specialty crop growers. With California’s agricultural output exceeding U.S. $50 billion annually, the impact of labor costs and availability is profound. Automation, Duflock explained, is crucial for California farmers to remain competitive in the global market. He noted that non-harvest automation is progressing well toward a 15-20% adoption target within the next five to seven years.
Major equipment manufacturers will also be present, showcasing new technologies. Paul Welbig, Director of Precision Technology for New Holland, announced that the company will display the T4 120F tractor equipped with precision fan sprayer technology. John Deere will demonstrate its large crop sprayer with the See & Spray solution, as well as its autonomous utility tractor. These advancements highlight the industry’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into agricultural practices.
Despite the growing interest in automation, challenges remain. Duflock pointed to a shrinking flow of venture capital into the ag tech space, which will be a key discussion point at FIRA. Both Sean Sundberg, Business Integration Manager for John Deere, and Welbig agreed that regulation significantly impacts the market, raising costs for growers and forcing the industry to find innovative ways to remain sustainable.
The event will also feature a range of other innovative robots, including the Boson Motors LX40-A, an autonomous-ready, all-electric utility rig designed for various farming tasks. The Elemental Weeder, which uses computer vision and spot spraying to reduce herbicide use, and the Rotate8’s Precision Farming Rover, a low-cost, configurable, and repairable tool for essential farming tasks, will also be on display.
Sundberg explained that integrating autonomy is more complex than it may appear, requiring supervision and changes to traditional operational structures. He also discussed progress on revising California’s ban on autonomous tractors, noting that an advisory committee is working to update regulations dating back to the 1970s.
Welbig emphasized the importance of implements and attachments, highlighting New Holland’s commitment to automating these complementary solutions. LJ Tech will present its Orchard Autonomous Sprayer, which auto-calibrates to deliver consistent applications and can be controlled through the Orchard Mate app. Spraylogics will introduce its OptiMist sensor system, which equips sprayers with real-time plant detection using near-infrared multispectral vision, ensuring precise application of chemicals.
Duflock encouraged international startups entering the complex U.S. market to consider partnerships with growers for testing and trials, and to make use of organizations that can provide market access. New Holland will debut the T4.120F at FIRA USA, showcasing its redesigned T4 F range engineered for versatility and connectivity.
As the agricultural industry continues to evolve, events like FIRA USA play a crucial role in bridging the gap between technology and practical application. By bringing together growers, manufacturers, and innovators, the event fosters collaboration and drives the adoption of technologies that can address the pressing challenges faced by the agricultural sector.