URGENT UPDATE: Japanese agriculture giant Kubota has just announced a strategic partnership with Norwegian tech startup Kilter to co-develop and promote the revolutionary Kilter AX-1 ultra high-precision weeding robot in Europe. This collaboration specifically targets vegetable farmers in Germany and the Netherlands, aiming to enhance crop yields while drastically reducing chemical pesticide usage.
The innovative Kilter AX-1 employs a patented system known as “Single Drop Technology,” which utilizes advanced AI for weed recognition and achieves an impressive 6 mm droplet placement accuracy. This precision allows for the delivery of micro-doses of herbicide directly to weeds, ensuring minimal impact on surrounding crops and soil health. With this technology, farmers could potentially cut herbicide use by up to 95%, making a significant leap towards sustainable farming practices.
“We had to design an applicator that withstands years of dust, vibration, and temperature fluctuations,” said Anders Brevik, CEO of Kilter, in an interview with AgTechNavigator. “That takes deep agronomy knowledge, a lot of engineering, and thousands of hours of field testing.” This commitment to innovation reflects a growing trend in agriculture to leverage technology for environmental benefits.
The rollout of the Kilter AX-1 is part of Kubota Europe’s Smart Farming Solutions Division, which was launched in 2024. The division is actively working with Kubota’s European dealer network to train sales staff and integrate the Kilter robot into a broader portfolio of farming solutions.
As of now, there is no confirmed pricing or information on availability in North America. However, the anticipation surrounding this technology is palpable, given Kubota’s recent showcases of electrified and autonomous agricultural solutions at events like CES.
This partnership marks a crucial step in the agriculture sector’s push towards sustainability, focusing not just on decarbonization but also on reducing chemical usage and promoting biodiversity. As the farming industry faces increasing pressures from climate change and environmental regulations, innovations like the Kilter AX-1 are essential for a sustainable future.
Stay tuned for further updates on this groundbreaking partnership and its impact on the agricultural landscape.
