As autonomous tractors move from concept to field deployment, tyre design is playing a critical role in ensuring safe, efficient, and soil-conscious performance. BKT Tyre has developed a suite of agri tyre technologies including sensor integration, VF load management, and sustainable materials that position its products as key enablers of autonomous agricultural systems.
BKT is integrating IoT-enabled sensors into agricultural tyres to support real-time data monitoring — a fundamental need for unmanned vehicles. These sensors track pressure, temperature, and tread wear, while offering predictive maintenance alerts to reduce unplanned downtime. This data is crucial for automated tractors operating continuously in varied soil and weather conditions.
Sensor systems also contribute to soil compaction analysis, helping autonomous systems make informed decisions in real time. While originally deployed in the mining sector via BKT’s Tire Track Pro platform, this data-driven framework is being adapted for agricultural needs.
At the core of BKT’s autonomous tractor support is its Agrimax V-Flecto tyre, built with Very Increased Flexion (VF) technology. This enables 40% more load capacity at the same inflation pressure, minimising the need for operator intervention — a critical factor in fully autonomous systems.
The VF design also maintains optimal performance on both field and road surfaces, allowing automated tractors to transition between environments without pressure adjustments, while its large footprint reduces soil compaction to preserve crop yields.
BKT’s tread and material innovations address the traction and durability needs of unmanned farming vehicles. Optimised tread designs improve grip and reduce slippage, ensuring tractors maintain direction and efficiency on uneven terrain.
Reinforced sidewalls and advanced rubber compounds extend tyre life under heavy, repetitive loading conditions — common in autonomous fleets. Flotation designs further reduce ground pressure, aligning with precision agriculture practices.
BKT's approach to tyre-vehicle connectivity supports seamless integration with onboard AI and telematics systems. Tyres now act as data points, relaying information to machine controls to enable real-time adjustments, such as altering tyre pressure in wet fields or adjusting route strategy based on terrain feedback.
The brand is also addressing compatibility with electric and hybrid autonomous tractors, developing specialised e-Ready tyres suited to the unique torque and load profiles of electric drivetrains.
BKT explored these themes in a recent article, Autonomous Tractors: Are They Safe?, which outlines safety considerations and the role of tyre performance in supporting next-generation farming.
Beyond performance, BKT’s innovations support sustainability goals increasingly required in precision farming. This includes the use of biodegradable and recycled rubber compounds and the adoption of AI-driven, 3D-printed production for tailored tyre solutions. These processes reduce environmental impact while meeting the custom needs of autonomous machinery manufacturers.
As autonomy grows across agriculture, tyres must evolve into smart, adaptive systems — not just passive components. BKT’s investment in VF technology, sensor integration, and sustainable design reflects a wider trend across tyre manufacturing: enabling machine intelligence through connected, environmentally conscious products. This is increasingly vital as OEMs and fleet operators demand equipment that supports both productivity and regulatory compliance in agri-tech innovation.
Tagged with: BKT Tyres, autonomous tractors, smart agri tyres, VF tyre technology, tyre sensors, Agrimax V-Flecto, soil compaction, connected tyres, agri automation, e-ready tyres
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