Ecorobotix Targets the Spot Spraying Market With the ARA Sprayer - CropLife

Switzerland-based Ecorobotix is establishing itself in the U.S. market with its ARA sprayer, which features ultra-precise, plant-by-plant spraying made with artificial intelligence.

Adoption of spot spraying technology continues to rise despite the current tight economy. The ability to reduce chemical use, CPP costs, and manual labor, while simultaneously boosting yield is a clear win.

Switzerland-based Ecorobotix is establishing itself in the U.S. market with its ARA sprayer, which features ultra-precise, plant-by-plant spraying made with artificial intelligence.

Jose Marchetti, Business Development Director, remarked that not only does the ARA sprayer stand out for its precision, especially in the vegetable sector, “it’s also highly versatile.” From herbicides to fertilizers and biologicals, it can apply a range of products used throughout the crop cycle, from pre-planting to near-harvest stages.

While the company has developed algorithms for large-scale crops like soy and corn, vegetable growers are seeing the most immediate and significant benefits due to the efficiency gains and input reductions the technology provides, added Marchetti.

The agriculture industry’s focus on sustainability along with regulatory pressure is also driving interest in spot spraying technologies.

“With increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact, there is a growing trend towards machinery that minimizes chemical usage. AI-powered spot sprayers, like our ARA, are at the forefront of this shift, offering precise herbicide application that can drastically cut down on inputs while preserving crop yields,” said Marchetti.

“Our company’s vision is simply this: to radically change agriculture for the better by respecting the environment, reducing chemical, water, and energy use, and minimizing soil impact.”

At the same time, governments in North America and Europe are pushing for reduced chemical usage in farming, either through regulations or by offering subsidies for precision farming technologies. The agricultural sector is responding by adopting technologies that can ensure compliance while maintaining profitability.

Demand for spot spraying and even laser technologies is strong, and AI is integral.

“Several large ag tech companies are investing heavily in similar technology, which reflects the growing demand from farmers seeking to balance productivity with sustainability,” noted Marchetti.

Furthermore, “AI is playing a significant role in making precision agriculture more efficient by improving real time decision-making and data collection. From machine learning algorithms that help optimize spraying patterns to predictive models that assist in crop health monitoring, AI is enabling more sustainable and data-driven farming practices.”

The future of AI in agriculture “seems to be heading toward fully automated farming systems where minimal human intervention is required,” explained Marchetti. “Combining ultra-precision spot spraying with robotic equipment, like autonomous tractors or drones will likely drive the next wave of innovations.”

Ecorobotix has a U.S. subsidiary with offices in Washington State, where it continues to grow its team and capabilities.

According to Marchetti, “We are focused on forming partnerships and building a strong dealer network to support farmers across the country.”

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