The FarmDroid field robot receives a significant capability boost ahead of LAMMA 2026, with upgrades that allow it to drill larger seeds, operate faster and work across a broader range of crops.
The latest development centres on the introduction of the +Seed 14 mm precision sowing system, which OPICO confirms will be unveiled on its stand at the show. Following extensive field testing of 10 units across Europe during 2025, the new system demonstrates its ability to handle large and irregularly shaped seeds, including maize, peas, beans and chickpeas, while increasing sowing capacity by up to 20 percent.
The upgrade significantly broadens the scope of the solar-powered FarmDroid autonomous robot, making it a viable option for growers previously unable to justify robotic drilling for larger-seeded crops. Vegetable and salad producers are also able to target higher-value crops, while certain organic systems gain access to crops that were previously impractical or uneconomic to establish.
With the +Seed 14 mm system fitted, FarmDroid can sow seeds up to 14 mm in diameter, using a 15 mm opening, while retaining the same 8 mm placement accuracy achieved with the previous +Seed 6 mm unit. Forward operating speeds increase to between 720 and 900 metres per hour, depending on crop and conditions.
Rasmus Theusen, regional sales manager at FarmDroid, says the upgrade represents a major step forward in the robot’s practical application. “This is a huge development in what the FarmDroid can offer. For an organic dairy farmer, it opens up the efficient establishment of maize, something that was not previously practical or economical,” he says.
“At the same time, growers of high-value crops such as sweetcorn, green beans and peas now have the option of an organic production route, further adding value to their enterprise. Whether you are an organic farmer or a vegetable grower targeting premium markets, the +Seed 14 mm system offers a strong return on investment.”
In addition to handling a wider range of seed sizes — from 0.8 mm to 14 mm — the new system supports 111 seed types and allows individual placement, row sowing or cluster drilling. A larger seven-litre seed hopper reduces refill frequency, while improved weeding precision enables tools to operate closer to the crop. An expanded range of shares and blades is also available to suit specific crop requirements, with row spacing adjustable from 25 cm to 90 cm.
The upgrade is not limited to new machines. Existing FarmDroid users can retrofit the +Seed 14 mm system, while an insert allows machines equipped with the new unit to continue drilling small seeds down to 0.8 mm.
Prices for a FarmDroid fitted with the +Seed 14 mm system start from £69,400, with retrofit kits for existing six-row machines costing approximately £2,320 per row.
Visitors to LAMMA 2026 can see a FarmDroid equipped with the +Seed 14 mm sowing system on the OPICO stand in Hall 6, Stand 440.
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