Kubota North America and agtech autonomy specialist Agtonomy are collaborating to commercialise autonomous operations on Kubota diesel tractors for spraying and mowing. The collaboration aims to enhance smart tech offerings for specialty crop growers.

The two companies will integrate Agtonomy’s autonomous platform with Kubota’s AI-based crop insights and vehicles. It will entail adoption of autonomous solutions within existing diesel tractor and sprayer operations. It aims to address infrastructure demands, reducing pesticide use, managing labour shortages and increased labour costs.

The initial phase will integrate Agtonomy’s capabilities starting with Kubota’s M5N diesel tractor, used among grape, orchard, and similar operations. The phased roll-out will be introduced to select growers, coupled with Kubota dealer support to ensure integration into the grower’s work loop.

“As demonstrated at CES, Kubota is dedicated to innovating solutions tailored to specialty crop growers, including those in wine grapes, nuts, citrus, and berries,” said M Brett McMickell, Chief Technology Officer for Kubota North America. “Our working relationship with Agtonomy represents a significant milestone toward commercialising our vision for agricultural autonomy by merging our expertise and technology with Agtonomy’s autonomous platform, enabling growers to optimise their operations. We have chosen to partner with Agtonomy due to its proven technology, successful engagement with growers and shared commitment to working alongside customers for continuous feedback.”

“Partnering with Kubota, a global leader in agricultural equipment, is an exciting milestone for Agtonomy,” said Tim Bucher, CEO and Co-Founder of Agtonomy. “Together, we’re helping bring practical autonomy solutions to growers, accelerating the adoption of automation to improve efficiency, profitability, and sustainability on the farm.”

“This collaboration exemplifies Kubota’s commitment to open innovation, enabling us to anticipate and address the evolving needs of specialty crop farmers,” said McMickell. “By working closely with growers and incorporating their feedback, we will refine autonomous capabilities, enhancing multi-vehicle support, offering flexible autonomy options, and delivering a Kubota-driven technology ecosystem that improves efficiency and field operations.”