Kubota robot earns CES Innovation honor
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) recognized Kubota North America with a “Best of Innovation” in the Industrial Equipment and Machinery product category of the CES Innovation Awards 2025 program. CTA awarded the Kubota KATR, a four-wheeled robot with a stable cargo deck platform and stability control features that allow it to conduct work in off-road agricultural and construction work environments, including on hills and slopes.
“At Kubota, we have a long-standing philosophy that our products must be technically excellent, be productive and enjoyable for our customers, and also ensure the sustainability of limited resources. Ultimately, our goal is to improve the quality of life for individuals and society,” said Brett McMickell, Kubota North America Chief Technology Officer. “Given the versatility of the KATR, it has a wide range of applications specifically designed to enhance productivity in the agriculture and construction sectors.”
The panel of judges, including media, designers, engineers and more, reviewed submissions based on innovation, engineering and functionality, aesthetic and design. CTA is the host and organizer of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), scheduled for January 7-10, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Compact KATR
The Kubota all-terrain KATR is a four-wheeled multifunctional robot designed with advanced stability control that adjusts the robot’s four legs to maintain a level cargo deck enabling it to operate with a stable platform on uneven and sloped terrain and making it an ideal solution for agriculture and construction environments.
A proprietary algorithm processes sensor data in real-time, then commands the robot’s four hydraulically actuated legs to extend or retract to maintain the platform stability. Additionally, four independent motors provide robust all-terrain capability to navigate over challenging environments.
The KATR can be powered by either an electric or combustion engine, reflecting Kubota’s commitment to customer choice without compromise. With innovative steering capability and a load capacity of 284 lbs. (129 kg), the KATR can be controlled either remotely or via an onboard controller.
