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Runaway Robot Lawnmower Found on Brittany Road, Safely Returned by Motorist

The viral encounter points to a likely GPS mapping glitch during a period of rapid adoption of robot mowers.

Overview

  • An automobilist named Fred filmed a robot mower traveling on a departmental road near Plouaret in Côtes-d'Armor and posted the video to Facebook.
  • He stopped, retrieved the device, and returned it to its owner's property, and no accidents or injuries were reported.
  • Fred and local press attribute the escape to a cartography and GPS error, with an open gate enabling the departure, though no official technical confirmation has been cited.
  • The Facebook post drew more than 40,000 likes, 8,000 shares, and 2,500 comments, according to the outlets that covered the clip.
  • Industry data report over 100,000 robot mowers sold in 2024 in France and project about 150,000 additional sales this year, illustrating rapid market growth.