Silverstone Park-based Dynium aims to transform Strawberry Farming with EV Robots
Silverstone Park-based start-up Dynium is aiming to revolutionise fruit farming with autonomous electric vehicles (EVs) designed for polytunnel environments.
The company is a spin-out from Oxdrive, the engineering firm known for its e-drive hubs and ‘GoFar’ platform – now further developed and re-badged a ‘BOB’ (Berries On Board).
BOB combines compact EV technology with advanced autonomous systems to automate the collection and transport of freshly picked fruit, particularly strawberries. According to Dynium, pickers currently spend up to 20% of their time walking between rows carrying produce – a task BOB can handle autonomously.
The global strawberry industry is projected to reach over $32 billion by 2032, with the UK retail market valued at around £850 million in 2024, driven by strong demand for locally grown, high-quality produce.
All design, development and testing of BOB takes place at Dynium’s Silverstone Park offices and workshop, part of the UK’s growing hub for high-tech engineering and mobility innovation.
Dynium has been founded by ex-Formula 1 engineers Terence Goad and Chris Horton – an illustration of how motorsport expertise is being repurposed for sustainable innovation – in collaboration with private investors Tony Vanderheide and Ivan Wilson.
The venture has also attracted funding from Innovate UK and plans to demonstrate BOB to UK growers in the coming months, with sights set on the global market.
“This is a chance to solve labour challenges, boost efficiency and drive sustainability, while positioning us at the forefront of a technology-driven food production revolution.”
Tony Vanderheide, Private Investor
“I invested because the technology is interesting, the application is fun and opportunity exciting. I think we have a great chance to make a difference to the industry and drive the UK economy.”
Ivan Wilson, Chair, Dynium