Testing and evaluation of the machine are now under way across key vegetable-producing regions.
The AX-1 uses Kilter’s Single Drop Technology, which applies herbicide directly to individual weeds.
The system captures and analyses imagery of the crop, then deposits droplets at six-millimetre intervals on to targeted weeds, reducing overall chemical use.
Because the robot is lightweight and autonomous, it can operate on soft soils and undertake weed control at earlier crop stages.
Its design also allows operation in fleets and movement between locations, and the classifier can be adjusted for different crop types.
Kilter chief executive Anders Brevik said European trials had recorded increases in crop yield, which he attributed to improved control of difficult weeds without damaging the crop.
Croplands general manager Sean Mulvaney said local research was now beginning, with the first units having arrived in Australia.
He said the AX-1 would be assessed alongside other autonomous platforms already used in horticulture, including systems for viticulture and tree crops.
The AX-1 is currently used in Europe and holds trained classifiers for 21 vegetable crops, covering both root and leafy varieties.
Kilter and Croplands have received a Hort Innovation grant to support testing under Australian conditions.
Trials will include assessments of performance across varied soils, weeds and crop types in Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland.
The companies are seeking grower partners to participate in the evaluation program. Interested growers can contact their local Croplands territory manager for further information.
