CNH made a minority investment in California-based startup Advanced Farm Technologies, which specializes in the robotic harvesting of apples, strawberries and other fruits. The two businesses will partner to drive industry and ecosystem innovation by collaborating across research and development and commercialization.

Advanced Farm Technologies’ system uses computer vision and a machine learning technology stack to pick and handle fruit, either during the day or at night. The company’s system’s robotic arms utilize grippers, a serial-hybrid drive system, autonomous navigation and automated bin handling.