Tractor Autonomy Hits the Dirt

Farming is an around-the-clock job, but technology is taking that to the extreme.

Carbon Robotics announced the new Carbon AutoTractor autonomous system, designed to keep the tractor running without stopping.

Here’s the plowdown: The autonomy system aims to help farmers with productivity while reducing labor dependency. Tasks the tractor can perform include tilling, plowing, cultivating, ripping, discing, listing, mulching, and mowing.

The autonomous system is compatible with the John Deere 6R and 8R Series tractors. You’ll just need a forklift to lift the autonomous kit onto the tractor.

(Sorry, but it won’t work with your grandpa’s Ford 8N 2-speed.)

When ready to let the tractor go out on its own, the system uses satellite and radar-based sensors to complete tasks. Additionally, it operates in tandem with Carbon Robotics’ Remote Operations Control Center. That allows a trained team to monitor the tractor in case of obstacles. You can also operate it manually whenever necessary.

Soundbite: “Too often, autonomy in agriculture has been overpromised and underdelivered. We built Carbon AutoTractor to change that—by working closely with farmers every step of the way to design a solution rooted in simplicity, reliability, and the realities of modern farm operations. This is autonomy shaped by real-world experience, not just another tech experiment.” — Paul Mikesell, CEO and founder of Carbon Robotics

Hittin’ the field: The autonomous system is not available publicly just yet, but the company says the cost structure will be pay-per-hour. Eventually, the system could move beyond the 6R and 8R series.