XAG launches R Series Agricultural Rover for specialty crop farming automation
XAG has introduced the R Series Agricultural Rover, a fully electric robotic system developed to operate in environments such as orchards, vineyards, and greenhouses where traditional farming equipment faces challenges. The deployment of this technology addresses needs in specialty crop farming by combining autonomous navigation with precision application capabilities.
Specialty crops including fruits, vegetables, and greenhouse products require intensive labor, contributing to approximately 38 percent of production expenses according to USDA Economic Research Service data. As these crops demand detailed management, automation becomes a method to support operational efficiency and manage labor inputs.
The R Series comprises two models tailored for varying crop layouts. The R100 is designed for dense planting with features such as a 120-liter tank and four wheel drive, supporting 30 minutes of operation at full capacity. The R200 model is equipped with a 240-liter tank and six wheel drive, intended for wider spaced crops, and supports 15 minutes of full-load operation per charge. Both utilize centrifugal JetSprayer technology, delivering droplets sized between 60–200 microns with spray reach extending up to seven meters horizontally, aiming to optimize coverage and reduce resource usage.
The rover's structural composition includes an all-aluminum chassis with a suspended portal axle, measuring 80 centimeters in width to navigate narrow crop rows while minimizing soil compaction. The R100 model weighs 80 kilograms, and the R200 weighs 130 kilograms, each capable of managing slopes up to 20 percent gradeability. Field activities are controlled remotely using the SRC 5 Smart Remote Controller, which provides touchscreen and joystick inputs along with real-time video feed.
The onboard automation system integrates functions such as Cruise Mode, Path Tracking, and Repeat Mode. RealTerra mapping captures high-resolution field images during initial manual operation to create a detailed map supporting centimeter-level route planning. Additionally, Artificial Intelligence (AI) safety features monitor the environment continuously, identifying obstacles and adjusting movement to maintain operational reliability.
XAG said, “For farmers facing labor constraints or rising workloads, the R Series transforms repetitive field tasks into efficient, automated operations.” The platform also allows for user customization, enabling applications beyond spraying, such as weeding and transport, to accommodate diverse operational requirements.