‘Robot saves time and delivers high-quality work, however, not the right moment to invest’

Marijn Vermuë, a farmer in the Noordwaard area near Werkendam in the Dutch province of North Brabant, recently concluded a year-long trial of the AgBot 5.115T2 robotic tractor. Despite his enthusiasm for the machine, Vermuë has decided against purchasing it, citing crop price disappointments and the need for additional investments in machinery.

The AgBot 5.115T2, a diesel-electric traction robot with 156 horsepower, proved to be both time-saving and high-quality during the trial period. The lightweight tracked machine offered agronomic benefits, and Vermuë completed just over 500 productive hours with it. The trial was part of the Nationale Proeftuin Precisielandbouw (NPPL+R) project, during which the farm paid €30 per hour for the robot's use — a cost comparable to that of a conventional wheeled tractor.

Vermuë's father, Adri, joined the conversation in the farm canteen, expressing that while the AgBot performed well, the current crop prices for potatoes, sugar beet, cereals, green beans, and onions — particularly those affected by fusarium — were not justifying the investment. The outlook for 2026 and beyond also did not appear particularly encouraging.

Another factor influencing the decision was the necessity of additional investments to make the AgBot truly effective. Vermuë explained that while the robot was impressive, its full potential could not be realized without upgrading the farm's machinery fleet. Labour availability was not yet a pressing issue on the farm, further delaying the decision to invest in the AgBot.

Despite holding back on the purchase, both Marijn and Adri Vermuë acknowledged that robotisation remained a very interesting development for their business. The trial had demonstrated the potential benefits of automation, but the current economic conditions and the need for complementary investments made it an unsuitable time for the Vermuë family to proceed with the purchase.

The AgBot 5.115T2, developed by AgXeed, had shown promise during the trial, but the Vermuës' decision highlights the complex factors that must be considered when evaluating the feasibility of investing in advanced agricultural technology. While the robot saved time and delivered excellent work, the broader agricultural context and the need for additional infrastructure investments led to a prudent decision to postpone the purchase.

In the meantime, the Vermuës will continue to monitor the evolving agricultural landscape, keeping an eye on both technological advancements and market conditions. As the industry progresses, the potential of robotic tractors like the AgBot 5.115T2 may become more attractive, but for now, the focus remains on navigating the current challenges in the agricultural sector.