DescriptionOverview of the initiative and its approach.
The world’s first fully automated farm project, being carried out in the United Kingdom, makes use of precision farming to address the challenges associated with stagnant yields and soil compaction. Most farms make use of large and heavy conventional machines in their operations, which compress the soil and make it less productive. This pilot project investigated the automation of farming processes and the implementation of precision agricultural practices, such as drilling wheat into cover crops, and improving the accuracy and field coverage of machinery. Ultimately, the project aims to increase yields and reduce input costs through the better application of products and more efficient vehicle use.
TechnologyTechnology used by the initiative.
As an objective of this project, the Agri-EPI Centre and its partners have taken traditional machinery (small tractors commonly used 50–60 years ago) and automatized them to produce small autonomous vehicles that can be operated from the farm office. The Hands-Free Farm uses up to three small tractors, including Hands-Free Hectare’s original tractor. The tractors used for the project are equivalent in size to those commonly used 50–60 years ago – some 75 percent smaller than modern tractors – and harvesters that are 2m wide rather than the 10+m machines used today.
TargetUsers, groups, or communities targeted by the initiative.
The pilot project is being carried out in Shropshire, United Kingdom. For many smallholder farms, especially in developing countries, such a solution may prove to be too costly.
Business modelHow the initiative delivers and sustains its value.
The initiative received funding from Innovative UK. There is currently no business model.
ImpactThe observed or intended effects of the initiative.
The fully automated farm in Shropshire has been envisioned to increase yields and increase soil productivity through the implementation of precision agriculture processes and automation.
PartnersOrganizations and stakeholders involved in the initiative.
Innovate UK; Precision Decisions; Harper Adams University; FarmScan AG
Four BettersThe FAO Four Betters supported by the initiative.
Better production
