Kubota’s concept tractor is 100 per cent autonomous and electric

It looks like a space machine right out of a high-budget sci-fi film, but Kubota’s latest concept unit was in fact its idea of what farming in the future looks like.

The futuristic machine, dubbed the “X tractor - cross tractor -” was on display at a new product exhibition held in Kyoto City on January 15 and 16, 2020. The display comes 50 years after Kubota unveiled its first ever concept tractor at the Japan World Exposition held in Osaka in 1970.

What was immediately apparent about the “tractor” was the lack of an operator’s cab…much like the one Case IH unveiled about two years ago.

This is because the machine was meant to run on its own without an operator. It is equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and electrification technology, and is a completely autonomous tractor that represents the future of farming drawn by Kubota.

The idea for the concept stems from the fact that Japan’s agricultural industry continues to face a labour shortage issue due to an aging population and ever increasing pressure to feed and clothe the world.

In 2017, Kubota launched its AgriRobo series of autonomous tractors which can be operated either manually or autonomously. Since then, Kubota has further developed the machines to include a series of advanced technologies, resulting in the birth of the 2020 concept model.

The “X tractor - cross tractor -” has a stunning and modern design which still preserves some of Kubota’s identity such as its orange colour scheme and logo. It has smooth curved lines and four crawler tracks that give it a sleek and futuristic look.

It is AI operated, meaning it makes its own decisions as to what operation to carry out and when based on data such as weather and growth rates. The data it gathers can be shared with other machines on the site for a more efficient operation overall.

The “X tractor - cross tractor -” is also 100 per cent electric, powered by a combination of lithium-ion batteries and solar batteries. As it is electrically powered, it emits no harmful greenhouse gases hence helping to promote environmental sustainability.

Kubota has equipped the concept tractor with four crawler tracks to provide ultimate stability even in wet paddies and uneven terrains.

The “X tractor - cross tractor -” is also capable of changing its height according to the job at hand. When higher traction is needed, the tractor can lower itself to provide more traction and stability. On the other hand, ground clearance can be increased by adjusting the tractor height.

The in-wheel motor controls the speed of the crawler tracks to allow it to turn accordingly and is capable of achieving a small turning radius, Kubota said.

If this is what farming looks like in the future, sign us up!