Exploiting AgTech connectivity to corner the grain market

Exploiting AgTech Connectivity to Corner the Grain Market

Introduction

I live in the countryside and know quite a few farmers, so connected farming systems often come up in conversation at the local pub. For those familiar with Clarkson’s Farm, the complexity and confusion of modern tractor systems is clear. Tractors spend much of their time working in private fields, creating significant opportunities for automation.

However, the era of fully robotic tractors is still some way off. In the UK, tractors perform many different tasks across relatively small fields, often hauling trailers locally. Because of this, complete autonomy is challenging. Large, uninterrupted fields might be more suitable for autonomous machines.

Connected Farming from the Operator’s Perspective

I’ve spent time inside combine harvesters and forage harvesters, where the level of automation and connectivity is impressive. Steering is automatically controlled using laser or GPS guidance. After a field map is loaded—usually by driving the vehicle around the perimeter or using a precise existing map—the machine can complete nearly all tasks independently, except for turning at the end of rows, though some machines are beginning to handle this as well.

Tractors spend a lot of their time in private fields, so the opportunity for autonomy is significant.

Steering is automatic; laser and/or GPS guided.

Author's summary: Connected agricultural machinery in the UK is advancing, though full autonomy remains hindered by small field sizes and diverse tasks typical for tractors.

Pen Test Partners — 2025-11-07