Autonomous driving is coming to older tractors too: there’s no longer any need to buy a new machine
Autonomous tractor control is no longer a solution reserved solely for the latest models. Thanks to the new “AgXeed” system, older tractors can carry out pre-planned tasks almost entirely on their own. This is further proof that, on large farms, autonomous technologies are no longer a futuristic vision – they are becoming the answer to the real challenges of modern agriculture.
Just a few years ago, for many people, the idea of an autonomous tractor was associated solely with futuristic prototypes showcased at the world’s largest trade fairs.
As the Polish press points out, the situation has now changed completely. Autonomous control is evolving from a technological innovation into a practical tool that is increasingly needed by large farms facing a shortage of skilled workers and a growing need to carry out tasks as precisely as possible. Furthermore, this technology is no longer limited to the latest tractors – it can also be adapted to machinery that has been in use on farms for many years.
It is precisely this solution that has been introduced by the company “AgXeed”, which has developed a compact VCU (Vehicle Control Unit). This device enables existing tractors to be fitted with an autonomous control system, thereby eliminating the need to invest in completely new machinery.
Old tractors – new possibilities
The system is based on a small control unit that works in conjunction with the ISOBUS TIM bus and the “TraXwise” platform. Using this system, the operator can plan the entire workflow in advance – driving routes in the field, headland manoeuvres and the operation of the attached implement.
Once work begins, the tractor carries out the tasks autonomously, whilst the operator’s role becomes more supervisory – they monitor the entire process and intervene when necessary. This differs fundamentally from conventional autonomous driving systems, which merely keep the tractor on a set driving path.
Autonomy is no longer the stuff of science fiction
Until quite recently, autonomous tractor control seemed like something straight out of a science fiction film. Today, however, it is clear that for large farms, it is becoming a practical necessity. With the area under cultivation increasing, a shortage of qualified operators, and work often having to be carried out during short periods of favourable weather, every hour of machinery operation becomes extremely important.
The ability to entrust repetitive tasks to a tractor allows staff to be redeployed to more complex tasks, whilst also increasing the overall productivity of the farm. The system uses GPS satellite navigation with RTK corrections, enabling the tractor to move with exceptional precision. The maximum working speed is 20 km/h.
The ISOBUS TIM communication system also plays a key role. It enables the autonomous system to control not only the tractor itself but also any implement attached to it. In practice, this means that all planned work is automated. Safety has not been overlooked either. If the system loses the GPS signal or connection to the control platform, the tractor stops automatically, thus preventing uncontrolled movement.
A single unit can be used on several tractors
One of the most interesting advantages of the solution is the ability to quickly transfer the VCU unit from one compatible tractor to another. Once the initial configuration has been carried out, the unit can be fitted to another machine, meaning that a single system can be used on several tractors on the same farm.
The full market launch of the system is scheduled to begin in 2027.
Just a few years ago, the main obstacle to autonomous tractors was the technology itself. Today, manufacturers have already demonstrated that they can automate not only the latest models, but also tractors that are several or even a dozen years old, provided they have the necessary electronic equipment.
