Verizon Business and Monarch Tractor announced a partnership aimed at boosting connectivity via Verizon’s network to support farming with autonomous tractors.
The Monarch Tractor is the first fully electric, autonomous smart tractor.
In a press release, the companies said Verizon’s network will enable the autonomous tractors to be connected even in remote agricultural landscapes without relying on broadband.
Headquartered in Livermore, California, Monarch Tractor said their technology combines electrification, machine learning, and data analysis to enhance operations by driving labor productivity, increased safety, and significant cost savings.
The machine runs up to 14 hours with a 40-70 horsepower engine and is being used in vineyards, orchards, dairies, airports and more.
The company’s flagship MK-V tractor now qualifies for cost reductions under the EQIP program, an initiative designed to support sustainable agricultural practices.
