Kubota Launches WorkSmart Autosteer for Compact Equipment

Kubota Tractor Corporation announced on September 2 the launch of WorkSmart Autosteer, a precision guidance system designed for compact and utility equipment.

The system extends precision guidance technology used on Kubota large agricultural tractors to additional equipment. WorkSmart Autosteer is designed to hold a defined line while the operator remains in control of the machine.

The system has an MSRP of $6,000, plus dealer installation, and is compatible with new and used Kubota equipment. It is backed by a two-year limited warranty and can be financed through Kubota Credit Corporation for qualified purchasers. WorkSmart Autosteer made its public debut at the Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa.

Manufacturer-matched guidance

Kubota says WorkSmart Autosteer differs from third-party precision guidance kits because the system is engineered for the specific Kubota model on which it is installed.

The system can be sold, installed, serviced, warranted, and financed through a single Kubota dealer relationship. Authorized dealers can install the system in approximately two hours and provide operator training.

“WorkSmart Autosteer isn’t about removing the operator from the decision; it’s about helping to remove fatigue and error from the equation,” said Austin Hawkins, senior manager, technology sales and marketing, Kubota North America. “At your command, the machine holds the line, so you stay sharp, cover more ground, and still get home with something left for the people who matter most.”

Two accuracy levels

WorkSmart Autosteer is offered with two correction levels. The SBAS (WAAS) option provides 6 to 8 inches of repeatable pass-to-pass accuracy and does not require a subscription.

The PPP option provides 1-inch accuracy for specialty crops and precision applications and is available with an annual subscription.

Both options work with Kubota's user interface. The system is designed to maintain consistent accuracy during field operations.

Kubota says precision guidance can reduce pass-to-pass overlap by keeping the machine on a defined line. The company also says repeatable guidance can help maintain consistent lines across broadacre fields, specialty crops, and turf and grounds work.

Equipment and applications

WorkSmart Autosteer is compatible with select Kubota tractors, mowers, and RTVs. Applications listed by Kubota include seeding and planting, tillage and cultivation, hay operations, spraying and spreading, mowing, road grading, and orchard and vineyard work.

The system operates through a WorkSmart Autosteer app available for iOS and Android devices. App tutorials, calibration guides, and operational videos are available for ongoing learning and troubleshooting.

“We installed WorkSmart Autosteer with two different customers,” said Tom Butner of Marshall Service Company in Marshall, Missouri. “One is using the system for general row crop farming and the other in his hay production operation, and the steering performance has been excellent. What really sold them is how easy it is to operate, even for operators who have never used precision guidance before.”

WorkSmart Autosteer is available now through authorized Kubota dealers at an MSRP of $6,000, plus dealer installation. Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation for qualified buyers.