Kubota leads €6.5 million funding round in ultra-precise spot spraying robot developer Kilter

Kubota Corporation has led a €6.5 million pre-Series B investment round in Norwegian AgTech start-up Kilter AS, developer of the autonomous AX-1 ultra-precise spot spraying robot for high-value crops. This significant funding round not only secures crucial capital for Kilter but also underscores the growing interest in innovative agricultural technologies. The investment round includes contributions from existing investors SBG Invest AS, Pymwymic, and Nufarm, highlighting the strong backing the company has received since its inception.

The partnership between Kubota and Kilter extends beyond the financial investment, as both companies have announced a distribution agreement. This strategic move will enable the AX-1 robot to be made available through Kubota’s established dealer networks in Germany and the Netherlands starting from 2026. This distribution partnership is a testament to the companies’ commitment to scaling the technology internationally and bringing the benefits of precision agriculture to a wider audience.

The AX-1 robot, developed by Kilter, is an autonomous, AI-driven spot spraying solution capable of targeting weeds with remarkable 6 × 6 mm precision. By identifying individual weeds in vegetable and other high-value crops, the robot applies only a few droplets of crop protection product directly onto the target plant. This approach significantly reduces the volume of crop protection products used, minimizing environmental impact and avoiding damage to surrounding crops. The system is currently suitable for more than 15 crops, making it a versatile solution for growers facing challenges such as increasing herbicide resistance and tightening regulatory frameworks in Europe.

Kilter, which originated in 2015 as a robotics project within Norwegian innovation company Adigo Mechatronics, became an independent company in 2020. Since its launch in 2021 after nearly a decade of development, the AX-1 robot has already been operating in Norway, Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands. The recent investment from Kubota and other partners will enable Kilter to expand its operations further and continue refining its technology.

Kubota’s investment reflects its strategy of supporting innovative technologies that address key challenges in agriculture. By combining Kilter’s ultra-precise nozzle technology and AI capabilities with Kubota’s machinery expertise and extensive dealer network, the partners aim to accelerate market adoption of the AX-1 robot. This collaboration not only strengthens both companies’ positions in the agricultural sector but also contributes to the broader goal of sustainable and efficient farming practices.

For Kilter, the additional capital will be instrumental in expanding its international reach and further developing its technology. As the demand for environmentally friendly and efficient agricultural solutions continues to grow, the partnership between Kubota and Kilter represents a promising step towards addressing these needs. The success of the AX-1 robot in reducing chemical usage and enhancing precision in farming operations highlights the potential of AgTech innovations to transform the agricultural industry and ensure long-term sustainability.