• Swindon & Wiltshire Events
• Wednesday September 11 2024
• Author Name: Peter Davison

The future of farming to be unveiled at Wiltshire agritech event

The future of farming is to be unveiled at an Advanced Technology Showcase in Wiltshire at the end of the month.

The AgBot – the UK’s first commercially available fully-autonomous tractor – will be debuted at the one-of-a-kind showcase at JM Stratton & Co near Warminster on Thursday, September 26.

Developed by AMRC, the £380,000 AgBot can be operated by a handheld controller, or even a smartphone.

Designed to perform monotonous farming tasks autonomously, allowing farmers to focus on other critical activities, the AgBot is around 75 percent more expensive than a traditional tractor, but it offers a return on investment through reduced fuel consumption and lower labour costs – it is capable of working unsupervised for up to 23 hours.

Additionally, the AgBot is equipped with a diesel generator that can potentially be replaced by greener, non-fossil fuel options like hydrogen in the future.

The AgBot is compatible with existing farming tools and equipment thanks to its standard three-point linkage, and it can operate for nearly a full day before needing to refuel, even in adverse weather conditions.

It also features advanced route-planning capabilities, which efficiently map out the field while taking headlands and obstacles such as trees into account—all managed through an online portal that maps the farm and its fields.

Multiple AgBots can be controlled by a single device.

The AgBot in action

Andrew Martin, head of food & drink at AMRC, said: “We are thrilled to bring the AgBot to Wiltshire, a region that represents the heart of British agriculture.

“The AgBot’s ability to operate autonomously for long periods, controlled simply by a phone app, is a game-changer for farmers looking to maximise efficiency and productivity.

“By showcasing this technology in Wiltshire, we aim to demonstrate how these innovations can transform farming practices and set the stage for the future of agriculture.”

Providing a window into the impact of smart farming technologies and pioneering green technologies within agritech, the event – delivered by BIC Innovation through the Wiltshire Fit For Growth programme – will give delegates the chance to see firsthand how tech advancements are shaping the next generation of agriculture.

This event is a must for anyone in the farming sector, agritech professionals, those involved in food and drink manufacturing, or industry leaders wanting to learn more about modern technologies, and how how these innovations can revolutionise their operations and keep them at the cutting edge of the industry.

Event highlights include:

• Exclusive Showcase: Be among the first to see the AMRC AgBot in action. This innovative tractor can work unsupervised for up to 23 hours and can be controlled via a smartphone app, representing a significant leap forward in farm automation. It could be the key to maximising your farm’s productivity while helping you achieve your environmental goals.
• Technology Applications: Explore a range of cutting-edge technologies, including advanced drones and innovative pest detection systems. These tools are designed to enhance operational efficiency and promote sustainable farming practices.
• Expert Insights: Engage directly with AMRC experts to learn how integrating digital technologies can enhance precision, improve traceability, and support critical business decisions—essential for any forward-thinking business.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders and technology experts, discuss the latest trends, share experiences, and discover how these advancements can benefit your business operations. This is your chance to build connections that could shape the future of your operations.

The event is free to attend but spaces are limited. For more information, or to book a place, visit https://comms.bic-innovation.com/l/1E6/FFGTechShowcaase