UPDATE: In a remarkable demonstration of technology amid harsh winter conditions, tech reviewer Tom Moloughney utilized a $4,999 autonomous snow blower from Yarbo to clear his driveway during the recent Winter Storm Fern, which dumped approximately six inches of snow in New Jersey on January 25, 2026. While millions battled the storm outdoors, Moloughney relaxed inside with a coffee, showcasing the capabilities of this innovative machine.
As over 250 million Americans cope with severe winter weather, Moloughney’s experience serves as a glimpse into the future of snow removal. The nearly 230-pound Yarbo Snow Blower is engineered to tackle up to 12 inches of snow and can throw snow up to 40 feet away. It boasts a recharge time of just 1.5 hours, making it a viable option for homeowners facing heavy snowfall.
Moloughney, the host of the State of Charge YouTube channel and a senior editor at InsideEVs, documented his experience on his social media account, demonstrating how the robot worked to clear his 6,000 sq.ft. driveway. The National Weather Service reported the storm’s intensity, allowing Moloughney to put the autonomous snow blower to the test.
“This is going to be a great test to see if this robot can handle a 6,000 sq.ft. driveway during a major winter storm,” he tweeted, while enjoying the warmth of his home. Videos posted by Moloughney show the machine efficiently clearing snow from his driveway, walkway, and garage area.
As the battery drained, the snow blower autonomously returned to its charging dock, recharging before heading back out to continue clearing the snow. “It will continue to do that until the driveway is completely done twice,” Moloughney updated followers, emphasizing the robot’s persistent efforts.
However, the autonomous snow blower is not without its challenges. Moloughney reported requiring extensive digital setup before the storm and noted difficulties with GPS connectivity in certain areas of his driveway. Previous storms had also posed obstacles, such as a layer of ice that the robot struggled to remove after hail fell before the snow.
Despite these minor setbacks, Moloughney praised the robot’s performance as it worked through the night. “Kicking ass” was how he described its effectiveness as the final snowflakes fell, highlighting the potential for robotics in everyday tasks.
As more extreme weather events are expected, the use of technology like the Yarbo Snow Blower may become increasingly relevant for homeowners battling winter storms. The growing interest in autonomous devices is reshaping how we approach traditional challenges, such as snow removal.
Stay tuned for more updates as advancements in technology continue to transform our lives, especially in challenging weather conditions. Moloughney’s experience with the Yarbo Snow Blower is a testament to the future of home automation in action.
