CNH Takes Minority Investment in Drone Imaging AI Company Bem Agro

Photo courtesy of CNH

Wed March 06, 2024
CNH Industrial

CNH continues to strengthen its tech stack with Ag Tech solutions that make farming easier, more efficient and more sustainable for customers. To further its offering in this field, the company's investment arm, CNH Ventures, has taken a minority stake in Bem Agro — a Brazilian startup and existing supplier to CNH.

Bem Agro uses AI to convert any type of aerial field image — including those taken from machines, drones and satellites — into agronomic mapping reports. These reports provide vital data that enables farmers to make better decisions about optimizing field operations, allocating resources and increasing yield while driving improved machine performance, greater productivity and reduced running costs.

In sugarcane, grain and fiber harvesting, where farmers can face low-visibility conditions, Bem Agro's maps provide guidance lines for course correction and crop damage reduction. Their weed mapping pinpoints specific areas to be sprayed, minimizing herbicide usage.

"This investment follows over five years of successful commercial partnership with Bem Agro. We currently use their mapping solutions on our Case IH and New Holland brands' Connected Platforms for sugarcane harvesters, tractors and sprayers in Brazil, Indonesia and Thailand. Together with Bem Agro, we aim to significantly enhance our current and future precision technology solutions, services and reach for agriculture across Latin America and Asia Pacific," the company said.

"Our drive for customer-inspired innovation relies on constant dialogue with the people that use our equipment and technology. Positive feedback from our dealer network and customers was instrumental in driving this strategic investment. We are excited to expand our collaboration with Bem Agro and further empower farmers to keep Breaking New Ground."