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THE FUTURE OF FARMING 4.0
or years, farmers have embraced technology in the form of drones and precision farming tools, using aerial imagery and sensor data to monitor crops, assess field conditions and optimise inputs like water and fertiliser. While drones handle
surveillance and scouting, electric tractors, harvesters and tillers are poised to revolutionise ground operations. By electrifying these heavy- duty machines, farmers can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs, while benefiting from the enhanced automation and efficiency that Farming 4.0 offers.
THE SHIFT TOWARDS ELECTRIC AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY Traditional agricultural machinery, which relies heavily on diesel and other fossil fuels, is not only environmentally taxing but also expensive to maintain. The high cost of fuel and the long- term maintenance of combustion engines have driven the industry to explore more sustainable and cost-efficient alternatives. Enter electric
The agricultural sector is undergoing a technological revolution driven by the growing demand for sustainability, productivity and efficiency. At the heart of this shift is electric agricultural machinery, poised to transform how farming is powered and managed. In the era of Farming 4.0, these electric machines, integrated with real- time data and automation, are set to make agriculture greener, smarter and more cost-effective. Here, Alex Raymond, European product manager at connector specialist PEI-Genesis, explores the role of connectors in advancing Farming 4.0.
agricultural machinery—vehicles and equipment powered by electricity, either from batteries or renewable energy sources such as solar power. Electric tractors, harvesters and tillers are becoming more common, and the advantages are numerous. Electric machinery reduces carbon emissions, cuts operational costs and provides a cleaner and quieter working environment. Additionally, electric vehicles (EVs) in agriculture often have fewer moving parts, which translates into lower maintenance costs and longer equipment life. These benefits are critical for farmers looking to reduce both their environmental impact and operational expenses.
FARMING 4.0: THE SMART FARMING REVOLUTION
The rise of electric agricultural machinery aligns with the broader concept of Farming 4.0, the latest phase in the evolution of agriculture, which builds upon previous agricultural revolutions by incorporating advanced technology such as automation, sensors and data analytics. This new model leverages the IoT, artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics to enable smarter farming practices.
In Farming 4.0, interconnectivity plays a central role. Farms are now equipped with sensors that monitor soil conditions, weather
May 2025 Instrumentation Monthly
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