AutoAgri IC series
Electrification and robotisation pave the way for sustainable agriculture
AutoAgri, a Norwegian company developing technology for sustainable agriculture, has recently launched its IC series of electrified and autonomous tractors. With a new high-efficiency, electric and driverless tractor, the company's CEO, Jostein Sandvik, believes they can revolutionise the future of the agricultural sector.
The advantages of electric operation
AutoAgri sees several advantages to electric operation. The company's main products are so-called Implement Carriers (IC), driverless robots that operate entirely without traditional labour. They can also work long shifts, around the clock, every day of the year. The company's IC series replaces a traditional diesel-powered tractor in many different applications. It is quick and easy to switch between different tools, depending on whether the robot is to plough, sow or perform other tasks. The IC series is equipped with a 3-point hitch, Power Take-Off (PTO) and hydraulics, just like a conventional tractor.
– Labour costs mean that the robot has a quick payback period and a strong return on investment (ROI). This is particularly important given the availability of labour and skills, adds Jostein.
Another important aspect for agricultural efficiency is that AutoAgris products weigh significantly less than equivalent diesel tractors, which on average weigh more than three times as much. This reduces deep soil compaction, which can otherwise affect drainage and damage pipes and other drainage infrastructure. The low weight is possible because the implements are mounted in the centre of the vehicle.
- Sustainable agriculture requires innovation and we are proud to be at the forefront of developing technologies that enable this. Our robots are not only energy efficient, they are also highly sustainable and will contribute to a significant reduction in carbon emissions from the agricultural sector.
Jostein SandvikCEO AutoAgri
AutoAgri and ETP in strong partnership for electrification
AutoAgri started out as a customer of ETP, but the relationship quickly developed into a strong partnership. Through this collaboration, AutoAgri has been able to leverage ETP's expertise to tackle the challenges of electrification.
"Electrification is not straightforward, and there are a number of challenges," Jostein acknowledges.
– However, the most crucial thing is to carefully consider the pros and cons of an electrified powertrain from the outset, have a clear goal in mind and find a partner with the right expertise in electrification.
Older farmers welcome robotisation
"Interestingly, it is not young farmers who have been most positive about the robotisation of agriculture," says Jostein.
Young people love driving tractors, but older farmers are often happy to leave that part to the machines. Many times, the older generation of farmers see autonomous robots as a fantastic opportunity to continue farming even when their own bodies impose limitations, he explains.
Robotisation also solves the problem of labour, which can be difficult to find in rural areas. Our solution opens up obvious opportunities all over the world.
A personal mission for sustainability
Christer Sigurd, CEO of ETP and active in the AutoAgri project, sees a bright future for the collaboration. The project's focus on sustainable agriculture and cutting-edge technology has made it a fantastic initiative for him personally.
- This project is special to me, as I grew up on a farm myself. I have always seen the potential for improvement in the agricultural sector and this opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future for agriculture is really exciting.
Mr Christer SigrudCEO at ETP
Christer also discusses the challenges that ETP has encountered and how they have tackled these with great commitment.
"It was no easy task to find the perfect balance between engine power and space efficiency. But the solution we developed together with AutoAgri solves the problem in an excellent way," he explains.
Given the trend towards smaller, more efficient machines, Sigurd believes that the emerging market for autonomous robots such as AutoAgris IC series will continue to grow.
"We see a future agricultural world where smaller, autonomous machines work diligently in the fields instead of large tractors. Just as with robotic lawnmowers, we will see a transition to smaller, but more frequent, agricultural machines, predicts Sigurd. He believes that ETP and AutoAgri together are ready to meet this challenge and lead the agricultural sector into a new era of sustainability and efficiency.
A bright future for AutoAgri
Jostein is very optimistic about AutoAgris' future. Although the company is currently focusing on Norway and Europe, the market is entirely global. Plans include a brand new factory in Norway, where the first series will be developed and produced in volume.
"The future holds a range of different IC products in our portfolio, each with specific areas of application, combined with a strong global presence. AutoAgri is clearly ready to lead agriculture into a sustainable, efficient and electrified future," concludes Jostein.
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