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. Connected farming systems often come up in local conversations. Fans of Clarkson’s Farm will appreciate how complex some tractor systems can be.

Current State of Tractors

Tractors spend most of their time in private fields, creating significant opportunities for autonomy. However, according to local farmers, robot tractors are still a long way off in the UK. This is because tractors are used for many different tasks, and fields tend to be relatively small. As a result, tractors frequently haul trailers around local areas. If fields were much larger, robotic tractors might be more practical.

Connected Farming from the Operator’s View

I've spent time inside combine and forage harvesters. The autonomy and connectivity levels are impressive. Steering is automated, using laser or GPS guidance. After loading a precise field map—usually created by driving the vehicle around the perimeter—the machine can perform nearly all tasks, except turning at the end of each furrow, although some are beginning to handle this too.

"The vehicle can do just about everything, other than turn at the end of each furrow, though some can already do this."

Author’s Summary: Connected farming shows strong potential for transforming agriculture, but practical challenges like small field sizes delay the widespread adoption of fully autonomous tractors.

Pen Test Partners — 2025-11-07