Croplands has announced a significant enhancement to the Kilter AX-1 autonomous weed detection solution for vegetable crops in Australia and New Zealand, with the latest model now configured with six cameras and nozzle modules, a step forward in aligning the technology with the specific needs and conditions of local growers.
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The additional camera module delivers market-leading AI-driven green on green detection, enabling more accurate identification and targeting of weeds within complex crop environments.
Combined with Kilter’s patented Single Drop Technology (SDT) – which delivers a precisely placed droplet every 6mm – the system continues to support earlier weed intervention, reduced chemical use and improved crop outcomes.
Croplands equipment portfolio manager Steve Norton and Kilter’s Aleksander Sendrowicz.
As a lightweight, autonomous platform, the AX-1 allows growers to enter paddocks earlier, including on softer soils to control emerging weeds at the outset, shortening growing cycles and increasing yields, delivering substantial productivity.
The AX-1's benefits multiply quickly when deployed in fleets across an operation.
Valuable labour can be redeployed to focus on higher value tasks.
Croplands equipment portfolio manager Steve Norton says the six‑camera configuration reflected direct feedback from local trials and engagement with Australian growers.
“The move to six camera heads is about delivering the level of precision and consistency our growers expect in Australian conditions,” he says.
“We’re seeing strong demand for solutions that can accurately distinguish crops from weeds at early growth stages, particularly in high‑value vegetable production systems.
“Enhancements like this ensure the AX‑1 continues to perform where it matters: on farm.”
Norton added the AX‑1 played a key role within Croplands’ emerging autonomous solutions offering, supporting both conventional and organic farming systems, where its targeted application helped preserve soil moisture and nutrients while minimising inputs.
Kilter chief executive Anders Brevik says the latest iteration of the AX-1 demonstrated the company’s continued partnership with Croplands and focus on regional adaptation and grower outcomes.
“From the beginning, Kilter has worked closely with growers to ensure our technology delivers real‑world value in the field,” Anders says.
“The six‑camera configuration is an important evolution for markets like Australia and New Zealand, where crop diversity and growing conditions demand even greater precision.
“Combined with our AI vision and Single Drop Technology, the AX‑1 enables growers to target weeds earlier and more effectively, while supporting more sustainable production systems.”
Commercial readiness and expanded capability
The enhanced AX-1 platform builds on ongoing testing and evaluation across key Australian vegetable regions since the Croplands-Kilter partnership was first established.
This optimisation and commercialisation has been supported through a contract with Hort Innovations Australia (HIA) running through until 2029, accelerating and optimising the technology to enable widespread adoption for Australian growers.
Today, the Kilter system can support 14 crop types, with additional crops under development as part of continued research efforts.
Field days and demonstrations
The Kilter AX-1 was showcased at Hort Connections in Adelaide at the start of June, giving growers the opportunity to see the technology in action.
Further field days and demonstrations are planned throughout the year as the AX-1 becomes increasingly commercially available across Australia and New Zealand.
Growers interested in a live demonstration are welcome to contact Croplands equipment portfolio manager Steve Norton on 0437 878 695.
