New Zealand-based agritech company Robotics Plus has launched Prospr, its autonomous, multi-use hybrid vehicle for vineyards and orchards.

According to its developers, Prospr is a robust autonomous vehicle featuring a modular design, advanced AI capabilities and all-day operation, tackling various crop tasks, including intelligent automated spraying. It enhances efficiency, reduces fuel consumption by 70% with its hybrid diesel-electric system, lowers emissions and minimizes input usage — thus improving sustainability, safety and operational costs while reducing reliance on increasingly scarce machine operators.

Source: Robotics Plus

Designed for adaptability, Prospr accommodates different tools, crop types and growing formats, maximizing return on investment for growers.

Key features of Prospr include:

· Automated intelligent spraying: Enhancing precision and reducing chemical use with targeted application. Prospr supports various spray configurations, including tower sprayers for grapes, apples and tree crops. Dynamic spray rates and airspeed adjustments improve efficacy and minimize waste compared to traditional sprayers.

· AI-powered navigation and safety: Prospr integrates lidar and cameras for real-time obstacle detection, ensuring safe and efficient navigation in complex environments. It autonomously adjusts speed, avoids obstacles and stops when necessary. Lidar technology enables Prospr to create detailed 3D maps, distinguishing between minor obstructions and critical hazards.

· Intuitive user interface (UI): Operators can remotely manage and monitor tasks via a user-friendly UI. The system allows for job scheduling, real-time tracking and detailed reporting, offering enhanced visibility and operational flexibility. Users can oversee vehicle stats, monitor missions and switch between manual and autonomous functions.

· Fuel efficiency and sustainability: The hybrid diesel-electric system reduces fuel consumption by 70%, cutting emissions and operational costs while supporting sustainability initiatives. Operators can configure settings to ensure safe operations that protect people, crops, and the environment.

· Enhanced productivity and workplace safety: Prospr reduces labor costs and reliance on machine operators while improving workplace safety.

For more on Prospr, visit the Robotics Plus website.