Innovative R4 concept tackles labor shortages and sustainability challenges with zero-emission, precision technology for vineyards and orchards
New Holland previewed its advanced R4 robot series at Agritechnica in November. The robot is a groundbreaking concept designed to help vineyard, orchard, and specialty crop growers overcome persistent challenges such as labor shortages and the growing demand for environmentally-friendly food production.
“High-value crops have huge market potential, but growers face production challenges including skilled labour shortages for highly repetitive work during seasonal peaks,” says Thierry Le Briquer, Grape, Olive & Coffee Global Manager at New Holland.
“R4 robots have been developed to automate such jobs, boosting both efficiency and sustainability with a zero-emission solution.” The R4 concept focuses on shifting skilled human input to value-added tasks while automating repetitive, lower-value jobs such as inter-row mowing, tillage, and spraying. Managed via an app, R4 machines use a combination of GPS, LIDAR, and vision cameras for precise navigation and task execution.
“R4 is an all-new concept — there is no cab,” continues Le Briquer. “It has been designed fresh from the ground up, yet it is built entirely on our in-house foundation and using our expertise in electronics, powertrains, precision tech, and more. It’s the newest member of our product family, joining our lineup alongside tractors, grape harvesters, and other machines.”
The R4 platform leverages New Holland’s existing autonomous tech stack, sharing systems like FieldOps and the same autonomy platform used across cash crop and specialty machines. This ensures scalability, flexibility, and future-proof support.
Two R4 Versions
New Holland developed two versions of the R4 concept to meet different specialty crop needs:
- •R4 Electric Power:
- Fully electric with a 40kWh battery pack o Compact design for narrow vineyards (1.0–1.5m crop spacing)
- Weighs just one tonne with a 500kg lift capacity
- Powers implements electrically for zero-emission operation
- R4 Hybrid Power:
- Designed for orchards and fruit producers
- Combines a 59hp diesel engine (compatible with vegetable oil-based fuels) and electric generator pack
- Offers extended autonomy and double-pass capability for large orchards
- Features both mechanical PTO and e-PTO for future electric implements
Both models use suspended rubber-track drive units for maximum traction and minimal compaction, and an intelligent, continuously-variable electric drivetrain that eliminates hydraulic oil, reducing maintenance and emissions.
While the R4 series is targeted at specialty crops, its technology—particularly in spraying and automation—could soon hopefully benefit grain farmers as well.