Yamaha acquires NZ’s Robotics Plus, boosting agricultural automation
New Zealand-based company Robotics Plus, a specialist in agricultural automation, has announced an agreement for it to be acquired by Yamaha Motor to form Yamaha Agriculture.
The 2025 Can-Am Outlander 850 and 1000R are equipped with a new double-overhead camshaft, 999cc V-twin Rotax engine, making the Outlander 1000R the first ATV with triple-digit horsepower, at 101hp, while the Outlander 850 also offers impressive power at 82hp. Both models include Work, Standard and Sport ride modes, optimising power delivery and performance for the task at hand.
Both models feature an all-new continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers smooth power to the ground, consistent shifts, improves torque and reduces maintenance requirements. The latest pDrive primary clutch is paired with a new, dual-roller-driven pulley, offering instant response and excellent reliability.
The Outlander features a new suspension configuration with wide, arched A-arms front and rear, allowing for enhanced vehicle dynamics, including an improved attack angle for smooth obstacle and ditch crossing. Front suspension travel has increased by 1.6 inches to 10.8 inches, while rear suspension has increased by 2.1 to 12 inches of travel, said to offer superior performance and comfort, along with additional ground clearance.
Complementing the updated suspension, the steering geometry is also revised, increasing highspeed stability, steering precision and turning radius, while a highstrength steel frame enhances durability and rigidity while decreasing weight, with a full-length skid-plate providing protection to the underside of the machine.
The 1000R also features a new four-disc system for improved braking control, using new metallic brake pads and a new front brake lever with optimised ergonomics.
When it comes to work, the Outlander continues to impress with a class-leading towing capacity of 1830 pounds and a heavy-duty, two-inch hitch receiver.
Meanwhile, restyled components include front and rear LED lights with a four-point design, a centralised exhaust with an aluminium muffler tip, new wheel designs and integrated front and rear bumpers.
A new 10 litre rear LinQ removable storage box and 30 litres of front dropdown storage offer plenty of room for tools and supplies while some packages feature a cell phone storage compartment.
