CNH Industrial has completed the acquisition of assets and intellectual property from Advanced Farm, a startup focused on robotic apple pickers. During the 2024 harvest season, several growers in Washington state tested the apple-picking system, which met performance expectations.
A CNH spokesperson stated, "The value we see in Advanced Farm's technology lies in its ability to address labor shortages and enhance the efficiency and resilience of the agricultural industry." The integration of Advanced Farm's technologies aligns with CNH's broader innovation strategy to advance robotic harvesting solutions. Key members of Advanced Farm will join CNH's technology and innovation divisions, bolstering internal development efforts.
CNH was an initial investor in Advanced Farms Technologies Inc., supporting the Davis, Calif.-based company's development of a robotic solution for apple and strawberry picking. Sources indicate that CNH intends to continue the commercialization of this platform.
Advanced Farm CEO Kyle Cobb shared with The Robot Report that although the company achieved its technical milestone this past season, the current investment climate poses challenges for agtech startups. Selling the assets and IP to CNH was a difficult decision, but it ensures the continuation of the investment.
Abbott confirmed that the intellectual property will integrate into CNH's other initiatives, with the majority of Advanced Farm's technical team joining CNH.
Source: The Robot Report
