Corteva has reported progress on its hybrid wheat technology platform, Xpedite, which will be used by Vylor, its seed and genetics business scheduled to spin off Oct. 1. The company plans to launch the technology in late 2027, following multiyear research trials demonstrating strong yields and improved resilience against drought, disease and other adverse conditions.

Vylor's proprietary, non-GMO hybrid wheat is developed using a conventional breeding system that increased yield potential by 10% while using the same amount of land and resources in company trials. In water-stressed environments, hybrid wheat produced using Xpedite yielded up to 20% more than elite wheat varieties, according to Corteva.

The company said its hybridization technology has worked in 100% of wheat germplasm tested, potentially enabling faster genetic improvements and commercial-scale seed production. Corteva expects the technology to double the rate of annual genetic gain by 2040 compared with conventional wheat.

Because the hybrid wheat is developed through conventional breeding, it does not require regulatory approval for its planned North American launch.

Vylor's hybrid wheat produces grain that meets the same quality standards as conventional wheat varieties and requires no specialized equipment or additional management, allowing farmers to maintain their existing production practices.

The company plans to introduce hard red winter wheat in North America in 2027, followed by soft red winter wheat in 2029 and hard red spring wheat in 2030. Vylor also expects to expand into international markets through its branded business, licensing agreements, partnerships and acquisitions.

Corteva anticipates that hybrid wheat will accelerate growth in Vylor's North American wheat portfolio, generating $500 million in revenue by 2035 and $1 billion by 2040, including licensing revenue.

The company expects wheat to become the third major component of Vylor's business, alongside corn and soybeans.

Source: Corteva, "Vylor confirms breakthrough wheat technology will launch in 2027"