Partnership between Yanmar Vineyard Solutions and Moët & Chandon enhances vineyard technology

Epernay, France, April 30, 2024 – Yanmar Vineyard Solutions, the viticulture technology subsidiary of Yanmar, is proud to highlight its partnership with the renowned Champagne House Maison Moët & Chandon. The partnership focuses on advancing robotic and autonomous solutions in the vineyards by means of the development of the YV01 autonomous vineyard robot, aiming to innovate and improve the efficiency and safety of vineyard work today.

This partnership between Yanmar Vineyard Solutions and Maison Moët & Chandon is an important milestone. It underscores a shared vision for a more productive, safer future in vineyard management, offering sustainability in terroir protection.

First steps in 2019

The collaboration started in 2019 when Yanmar first introduced its autonomous machine concept to Moët & Chandon. At this time, the wine industry was beginning to explore the potential of robotic vineyard assistance. Moët & Chandon recognised the opportunity and provided a set of specifications for a machine capable of operating under challenging plots with steep slopes and lateral slopes.

First successful field trials

The first prototype of the YV01 was introduced in 2021. The machine was first tested on a CIVC plot to ensure it met the specifications before being released to Moët & Chandon. Following these tests, in early 2022, Moët & Chandon undertook extensive trials with two YV01 machines on some of their most demanding plots. This phase was crucial for evaluating the machines’ performance under real-life conditions. It also marked the start of a training programme to teach staff new ways of working in steep areas.

By the end of 2022, Moët & Chandon confirmed their intention to operate the YV01 in some of their most challenging vineyard plots in Aÿ and Cramant. The YV01 met all the criteria for ease of use, enhanced operator safety, and regained autonomy in managing the most challenging plots.

Same performance as tractor-mounted machines

Feedback from the winegrowers who have worked with the YV01 is very positive. They report that “it meets all the standards of what we know on traditional tractor-mounted machinery”. In addition, it offers the “same quality of plant protection” while offering the advantages of improved safety and better adaptation to difficult terrain.

New weeder tool on the market

Motivated by the positive results, Yanmar Vineyard Solutions and Moët & Chandon started the development of a new weeder tool in 2023, which has been available for sale since January 2024.

Video highlighting cooperation, watch HERE.

About Yanmar

Yanmar Vineyard Solutions, based in Epernay, France, specialises in the development and design of solutions that protect individuals and preserve vineyard territories and their unique terroirs. Founded in 2021, the company continues to grow and innovate through close collaboration with winegrowers, aiming to best fulfil their needs.

Since 1989, Yanmar Europe B.V. has been the regional headquarters office of Japanese Yanmar Ltd. The European subsidiary is responsible for all Yanmar business activities in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. These include products and services in Industrial, Marine, Agriculture, Energy and Construction applications.

Founded in 1912 in Japan, Yanmar is a global brand and leader in designing and manufacturing advanced performance powertrains and final equipment. You will find Yanmar products in various applications in agriculture, construction, energy systems, industrial and marine.

For more information, visit us at https://www.yanmar.com/eu/About-Us/.