The future is electric, and for one company, that future lies in the field of California’s farmlands. Monarch’s agricultural technology company seeks to change how farmers plow and maintain their fields.

The company is on an ambitious goal of deploying the first ever all-electric fleet of self-driving tractors throughout California farms by the end of 2022. If successful, this would make Monarch the first company to Implement autonomous, self-operating vehicles throughout California’s agricultural sector.

The mission behind this goal is simple. Monarch is seeking to be the first company to truly revolutionize farming by enabling the farming industry to be the most sustainable it’s ever been. The company also touts data-driven tactics that allow farmers and governing bodies to rethink how current agricultural methods can be improved.

Self Driving Tractors Seek To Improve Farming Tactics

Monarch contends that the use of automated tractors will revolutionize the way farmers go about their business. These tractors will free up workers from having to operate farm equipment for long stretches of time allowing them to tend to other duties on the farm. Because of their automated nature, farmers can use several vehicles simultaneously while operating them from one control station.

Eco-Friendly Tractors

The company also emphasizes the economic value their automated tractors hold. Monarch contends that their vehicles are fuel efficient and emissions-reducing. This is a stark difference from traditional or used tractors for sale which can leave a significant carbon footprint and are typically not fuel efficient.

Safety Leads the Way for Automated Tractors

It’s no secret that farming is a demanding and at times dangerous job. Monarch emphasizes that replacing drivers using automated tractors allows them to steer clear of harmful chemicals, and dangerous workplace accidents that might occur in the fields.

The Company’s co-founder and CEO Praveen Penmetsa Explains, “the tractor driver seat is one of the most dangerous places on small farms with exposures to chemicals, harsh elements, and Equipment issues including implements.”

The company also explains that their automated tractors have the ability to detect hazards including livestock, and humans. Even without a driver behind the wheel, Monarch emphasizes that their vehicles offer ultimate safety features. While the automated capability of the tractors is seen as the ultimate appeal, these tractors can also operate with a driver behind the wheel if needed as well.

Legal Hurdles Stand in the Way of Monarch’s Ambitious Goal

While Monarch’s goal of implementing a fleet of electric, autonomous tractors throughout California is ambitious, the company first has to get over some legal hurdles. According to California law, self-propelled equipment, including tractors that are in motion, requires that an operator must be at the controls. The company is currently petitioning to change the state law in order to roll out its autonomous vehicles to farms and vineyards throughout California.