Key Takeaways
1. Daedong Robotics has launched the RT100, an agricultural robot powered by repurposed Tesla vehicle batteries, highlighting innovative recycling practices.
2. Poen specializes in upcycling EV batteries by testing and remanufacturing decommissioned Tesla battery cells into new packs for the RT100.
3. The RT100 can follow farmers, assist in harvesting, and navigate uneven terrain with a load capacity of 300 kg and a speed of 5 mph.
4. AI functionality allows the RT100 to respond to voice commands through the Daedong app, enhancing its usability in agricultural tasks.
5. Companies like Redwood Materials demonstrate that over 95% of valuable materials from EV batteries can be recycled, promoting sustainability in energy solutions.
Decommissioned batteries from older Tesla vehicles are now being repurposed to power autonomous transport robots used in agriculture.
Innovations in Agricultural Robotics
Daedong Robotics, known for its automated lawnmowers akin to the well-known Segway Navimow in the United States, has launched the RT100. This compact robot is designed for agricultural tasks and is powered by used battery cells sourced from Tesla cars. This initiative not only showcases recycling practices but also highlights the potential for reusing electric vehicle batteries.
Collaboration for Sustainable Energy
The RT100 features replaceable battery modules supplied by Poen, a company specializing in upcycling EV batteries. Poen tests individual cylindrical LG cells from decommissioned Tesla packs and disassembles those that still have enough capacity. They repair and remanufacture these cells into new battery packs, providing an economical power source for Daedong’s agricultural robots.
Smart Functionality in the Field
The RT100 follows farmers around, adjusting its loading bed to assist in collecting harvested fruit, then transports the produce to unload before heading back. With a 4×4 drivetrain, it is capable of navigating uneven ground and can easily maneuver in tight orchard spaces.
The RT100 has a maximum load capacity of approximately 300 kg, or 662 pounds, and can reach speeds of five miles per hour. Additionally, it features AI functionality that allows it to respond to voice commands from its operator through the dedicated Daedong app.
Recycling for a Greener Future
According to Redwood Materials, a leading force in battery recycling and led by Tesla co-founder JB Straubel, more than 95% of valuable materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt can be recovered after an electric vehicle battery pack’s life has ended.
Like the collaborative efforts of Daedong and Poen, Redwood is also involved in EV battery upcycling initiatives. They are working on projects such as creating an energy storage system for local grids using old EV battery cells, demonstrating the practicality of these recycling efforts.
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