CLAAS INVESTS IN ROBOTIC START-UP

Claas has acquired a minority shareholding in the Dutch manufacturer AgXeed with the aim of cooperating in the development and commercialisation of their AgBot autonomous field robot.

In a statement, Claas said collaborating with and investing in AgXeed " . . marks a logical step towards future-proof technologies."

AgXeed are described by Claas as one of Europe’s leading manufacturers in this sector. Due to be launched in 2022, the AgBot has a diesel-electric drive via either wheels or tracks, with power outputs up to 156hp and is fitted with a standard 8.0 tonne capacity three-point linkage and load sensing hydraulics.

Thomas Böck, CEO of the Claas Group said, "Our involvement provides Claas with access to innovative technologies in a familiar market segment and complements our own expertise in autonomy and robotics.

"In turn, AgXeed benefits from our extensive expertise and networks in many areas such as data transfer, interfaces and drivetrain solutions. It's a win-win situation in our view, and one reason why we decided to invest in this start-up company, as well as the fact that the targeted AgXeed technologies are in an advanced state of development. This solution offers farmers and contractors concrete economic added value, and what’s more, it will soon be available."

Joris Hiddema co-founder of AgXeed B.V, added, "This type of cooperation reflects exactly what we stand for at AgXeed. And this means setting up future-orientated alliances between innovative companies striving for sustainable agriculture where farmers are able to optimise productivity, while preserving the soil and the environment. In CLAAS we have a partner on board that believes in and shares our ideas on the future of agriculture and will accelerate bringing our solutions to the fields of farmers”. 

AgBots will be launched in various sizes and performance classes. Further solutions are said to be currently under development.