This autonomous concept tractor has been designed and built by Case IH. It promises to bring significant productivity benefits to world agriculture and can be operated unmanned and monitored remotely.

This ground-breaking tractor is equipped with a range of technologies that are used for remote monitoring and control via a PC or tablet, meaning that once the tractor is in the field it can work completely independently, eliminating the need for a driver to observe operation, and so removing the need for a cab.

Should the tractor encounter an obstacle it automatically stops, the owner is alerted, and the machine does not restart until camera feeds are checked and a decision on whether the tractor can continue is taken.

It also offers the future potential to automatically adapt to weather events. For example, the tractor would stop automatically should it become apparent changeable weather would cause a problem, then recommence work when conditions have sufficiently improved.

Alternatively, if on private roads, it can be sent to another field destination where conditions are better – where soils are lighter or there has been no rain, for example.

Key benefits of autonomous technology include the optimisation of farming operations, especially during tight weather windows, as the ACV can work around the clock with no variation in productivity. It also enables agribusinesses to both redeploy labour to value added tasks, as the ACV could conduct routine in-field activities, as well as helping businesses overcome the lack of skilled labour.

“We are delighted to be bringing the ACV to Goodwood for its UK unveiling,” said Paul Harrison, UK Business Director for Case IH. “It is a concrete example of Case IH’s commitment to agricultural innovation, and helping our customers improve their productivity and efficiency.”

The Case IH autonomous concept tractor will be on display in the FoS Future Lab at Goodwood Festival of Speed from July 4 – 7, 2019.