UK PREVIEW OF THE FLEET ROBOT

Last week, Fleet Line Markers held the official UK launch of their revolutionary robotic line marker at Malvern College, an event that attracted over 70 VIP guests. The company, which boasts a strong portfolio of robotic patents, some over a decade old, made it clear that these patents will be rigorously enforced following the product's release.

The event began with a presentation by John Carr and Iain Courage, who provided insights into the development of the new robot and its strategic importance within Fleet’s product lineup. The pair explained that the idea for a robotic line marker had been considered since the introduction of the MAQA GPS system, but the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the project until 2023. It was then that Fleet began collaborating with companies in New Zealand and Australia, leading to the first prototype in December 2023 and a subsequent launch in New Zealand in early 2024.

Fleet, a company with a history spanning over 70 years, has long been a pioneer in line marking technology, winning awards for innovation since the 1960s. One of the first awards to be received was the prestigious IOG Gold Award for the first dry marking machine. Further awards have followed in every decade since. Their past innovations include the Kombi spray jet line marker, the Fastliner ride-on line marker, the Beamrider laser-guided line marker, and the MAQA GNSS GPS system. The new robotic line marker represents the culmination of decades of experience and expertise.

Key features of the new robotic line marker include robust handles for easy transport, a 10-litre drum capacity, solid rotating wheels, ultrasonic sensor protection, and a removable battery. One of the standout features of the new robot is its removable integrated RTK plotter (spike), which allows users to plot pitch positions and features with precision. The robot communicates via 4G with Fleet’s software and satellites, ensuring accurate pitch lines across various sports. This advanced system is supported by Fleet’s RTK Base Station network, which is included with the purchase.

During the presentation, Carr highlighted the robot’s accuracy—achieving precision within 5mm—and addressed questions about the range of the base station, which extends up to six miles. The robot’s price point, set at £15,000 with an additional annual subscription fee of £2,500, was surprisingly competitive compared to other robotic line markers, which range from £22,000 to £36,000. Fleet further incentivizes customers by offering a 50% reduction in the subscription fee for those who purchase Fleet’s paints.

Attendees were treated to a live demonstration of the robot marking out a football pitch, which it completed in approximately 25 minutes. The event also provided ample networking opportunities, with many existing Fleet customers, including parks managers and sports turf contractors, eager to see the robot in action.

The overall response was positive, with attendees impressed by the robot's design, build quality, and ease of use. Carr concluded by inviting feedback for future enhancements, demonstrating Fleet’s commitment to continuous improvement.
As the event wrapped up, it was clear that Fleet’s new robotic line marker is poised to make a significant impact on the market, combining cutting-edge technology with a price point that could disrupt the industry.