News & Events

Zaragoza - A number of innovative John Deere solutions have been recognised with awards at this year’s FIMA fair in Zaragoza (14-18 February 2012), Spain’s most prestigious international agricultural trade show. Industry-wide, the jury of 14 independent experts gave awards to a total of 33 products, features and solutions. John Deere leads the list of winners with seven individual awards.

Two John Deere innovations were awarded Gold:

• Electrical adjustment of the top-cover vanes on the variable stream rotor in new S-Series combines. Remotely controlled from the cab, this feature helps to optimise straw quality and separation capacity under frequently changing harvest conditions.

• John Deere’s second generation ActiveSeat suspension system, which is activated electrically and isolates the driver from up to 90 per cent of the tractor’s vertical movement. The system, which is optionally available on large horsepower tractors, increases operator comfort while reducing fatigue.

The following five John Deere solutions were given innovation awards:

• The new range of diesel-only John Deere PowerTech PVX and PSX engines, which operate with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), so no additional liquid is required to meet Stage IIIB emission regulations (as of 1 January 2011).

• The new Vistronic Fan Cooling system on John Deere 7R Series tractors, which automatically adjusts the fan speed to maintain the best possible operating temperature and helps the engine to respond more quickly to load changes. This pushes the air into the engine compartment under pressure and thus minimises the ingress of dirt and debris.

• The Fast Release System on John Deere’s new 900 Series round balers. These balers employ a unique ‘curtain’ design, which replaces the traditional heavy rear door, enabling the operator to unload the completed bale in less than five seconds. This effectively saves the operator one valuable minute for every six bales he produces.

• John Deere’s new HarvestLab constituents sensor for self-propelled forage harvesters. Based on near infrared (NIR) technology, this advanced sensor analyses silage for sugar, starch, protein and fibre (ADF/NDF) content, either on-the-go or as a portable stationary unit in the barn or office.

• Machine Sync, a logistics optimisation tool introduced as part of the new John Deere FarmSight strategy. Machine Sync enables fleet owners and operators of tractor/trailer combinations and combines to optimise their transport operations via permanent wireless data exchange between machines.

John Deere has announced that it has reached agreement with MacDon Industries Ltd of Winnipeg in Canada to better serve John Deere self-propelled windrower customers, globally.

“This agreement allows us to expand the John Deere hay and forage product portfolio to better serve our dairy, livestock, commercial hay and small grains customers,” said William F Norton, vice-president, global hay & forage platform. “After an in-depth evaluation of the global commercial hay and small grains industries, we determined that specific MacDon self-propelled windrower products would enable us to expand our overall product line-up.”

As part of the agreement, MacDon will manufacture select models of John Deere-branded self-propelled windrowers, including draper and auger headers, and pull-type auger mower-conditioners. John Deere will continue to manufacture select windrower models.

According to Derek P Boudreau, global director baling & mowing, the entire windrower product line-up will be supported by John Deere dealers in the respective markets.

“This agreement is a very logical step in a relationship that goes back over 30 years,” said Allan MacDonald, president & CEO of MacDon. “We are excited about the opportunity to work with John Deere in bringing some of the best windrowing products available to these market sectors.”

More details about the availability of products evolving from this agreement will be announced later this summer.

A total of 28 young service technicians recently graduated from the John Deere Ag Tech and Turf Tech advanced apprenticeship programmes, run by national training provider Babcock.

Among the group of third year students, Bruce Cockburn of Scottish dealer W M Dodds Ltd at Jedburgh, Roxburghshire, was named apprentice of the year and presented with a crystal plaque, an additional certificate and vouchers for workshop tools worth £300.

“Agriculture is changing, and the technology and sophistication of farm machinery has advanced leaps and bounds over the past few years and will continue to do so,” says W M Dodds managing director Jimmy Laing. “We feel it is imperative to choose the right people and train them to a very high standard, which in turn will help us to provide an excellent back-up service for our customers in the future.

“From the very first day of his apprenticeship, Bruce has worked extremely hard on his practical and college tasks, resulting in this award. John Deere demands a high standard of customer aftercare, and it’s with people like Bruce that we intend to meet their aspirations over the next decade.”

The graduating group of young technicians, almost a third of the total of 101 apprentices now undergoing training with John Deere and Babcock, received their certificates during a specially arranged visit to Deere & Company’s Mannheim facilities, including the tractor factory, in December.

The trip also included a tour of the cab manufacturing facility and European Parts Distribution Centre at Bruchsal, and a graduation dinner with John Deere management. The presentations were made at the John Deere Forum in Mannheim by John Deere’s European regional customer support manager Robert Wick and regional training delivery manager Peter Leech, John Deere Limited training manager Chris Wiltshire and Babcock programme manager John Chambers.

The apprentices can go on to complete their education for a fourth year to gain the John Deere Diploma and register at LTA2 level in the industry’s Landbased Technician Accreditation scheme, while starting their adult training within the John Deere University.

Now in its 20th year, Ag Tech was the first such scheme to be introduced in the UK and won a National Training Award at the end of 1997, the only one ever made to an agricultural machinery apprenticeship programme. Since the first programme started in 1992, more than 500 apprentices have graduated through all three John Deere schemes (Ag Tech, Parts Tech and Turf Tech) and are now working in the company’s nationwide dealer network.

John Deere’s PowerGard Maintenance and PowerGard Protection programmes are now available for the company’s full range of professional turf equipment, including golf and commercial mowers, as well as compact tractors (but not Gator utility vehicles). Combining both plans allows customers to budget for all their equipment servicing and repair costs.

“All our professional turf equipment customers in the UK and Ireland can now benefit from a PowerGard plan to help fix costs, budget more accurately and avoid unexpected outlays,” says John Deere Limited’s aftermarket sales manager James Morley.

“These new PowerGard programmes are specially designed to control operating costs, remove the worry and allow users to choose the best plan to suit their individual needs. Not only can the operator save on maintenance costs by locking into current parts and labour prices, he can also save on his own time and labour.”

One of the first golf courses in the country to adopt PowerGard is Allerthorpe Park Golf Club, near York. The club agreed a new package deal with local dealer F G Adamson & Son of Swanland in East Yorkshire, and took out a John Deere Financial lease with PowerGard maintenance and protection cover from day one, giving them a total fixed cost of ownership over five years.

“I was looking for something to cover all our machines all the time, so that we could concentrate on our greenkeeping duties and on improving the quality of the course and its presentation, without having to worry about servicing or parts as the machines get older,” says head greenkeeper Rob Bradley. “What we liked about PowerGard is that you have one set amount to pay every month with no unexpected costs, which makes budget planning that much easier.”

PowerGard is much more than a simple extended warranty programme; it is a complete maintenance and protection plan that allows the user to budget for the full operating costs of the equipment, while ensuring that it is properly maintained throughout its working life to provide years of reliable service.

PowerGard Maintenance is an agreement between the dealership and the customer to do all the maintenance work on the machine, new or used, according to the service schedule in the operator’s manual. Customers can pay at each service, in regular instalments or for the entire contract in advance, with the cost of the plan including all parts, maintenance fluids and routine labour.

In addition, there are two levels of PowerGard Protection plan that cover the cost of machinery repairs for up to five years, and must be bought with a PowerGard Maintenance plan. The basic PowerGard Protection is for limited coverage of the powertrain and engine, while PowerGard Protection Plus provides more comprehensive coverage of all key machine components.

Full details of covered items are available from John Deere dealers. Subject to acceptance by John Deere Financial, it is possible to fund the PowerGard Protection programmes within a finance package; payments will vary depending on the machine, length of the plan and payment option chosen.

“PowerGard customers can also be secure in the knowledge that their machines are being well cared for by a skilled, fully trained John Deere technician using state of the art tools, who is certified by the industry standard LTA programme,” says James Morley. “This in turn provides reliability and performance advantages, and they will have a complete service record book, fully stamped by the dealer, which will add value to the machine when it is traded in.”

In addition to the new 9R Series tractor, which made it's UK debut at LAMMA 2012, John Deere is showing a 6210R tractor equipped with the newly designed 24-speed DirectDrive transmission, and a new XUV 550 petrol engined Gator utility vehicle (see separate release), for the first time at a UK farming show.

With the DirectDrive transmission, John Deere has introduced a completely new technology to the agricultural machinery industry and a further option to the new 6R Series tractor range for 2012. This double clutch technology is already established in the prestige car industry, and will be available on a tractor for the first time.

DirectDrive has been designed to serve the needs of larger arable farms and contractors. It combines the handling comfort of an infinitely variable shift transmission (IVT) with the power efficiency of a mechanical transmission, and has been designed for specific tasks and load conditions which require continuous power, such as ploughing and towing, pto work and road transport.

Key customer benefits of this new transmission are enhanced power efficiency and improved fuel efficiency, resulting in savings of up to 10g/kWh compared to an IVT transmission. Additionally, just like in Formula 1 racing cars, electromagnetic actuators enable fast changes between speeds and ranges under varying temperature conditions, to make this transmission even more productive.

The operator can choose between a manual mode to take command of forward and reverse speed changes via the control lever, and an automatic mode. In this mode, the three range DirectDrive transmission enables fast changes between eight speeds under full load, and also provides fully automatic changes between the A, B and C ranges.

Depending on the actual load, the Efficiency Manager function optimises the tractor’s efficiency by automatically matching the appropriate speed and engine rpm. As a result, the new DirectDrive transmission offers a cost-effective alternative to existing IVTs.

Compared to the mechanical/hydraulic power split of an IVT, the DirectDrive transmission exclusively builds on a fully mechanical power flow. This results in a power efficiency improvement of approximately four per cent, without compromising operator comfort and productivity.

The straightforward transmission design also provides a choice of driving strategies to match all tasks, including transport work at a maximum speed of 50kph with a significantly reduced engine rpm (in Eco mode). The new John Deere DirectDrive transmission will be optionally available on all six-cylinder 6R Series tractors from 140 to 210hp, from late 2012.

Designed as versatile workhorses for contractors and medium sized to large arable farms, John Deere’s newly styled 7R Series tractors feature more power, manoeuvrability and operator comfort than their 7030 Series predecessors. There are five models in the range, developing a maximum of 230 to 310hp with Intelligent Power Management (IPM), according to 97/68EC ratings.
For added security, 7R Series tractors are fitted as standard with CESAR Datatag and immobiliser systems, with a unique transponder based key. In addition, new models will be supplied with complimentary JDLink Ultimate telematics plus Service ADVISOR remote monitoring and diagnostics systems for the first year.
Having optimised the performance of its field-proven and operator-friendly high-pressure common rail (HPCR) PowerTech Plus engine technology, which consistently achieves leading fuel efficiency results in independent tests, John Deere has maintained the single fluid, diesel-only approach on these latest models to conform to Stage IIIB emission standards.
The 9-litre PowerTech PVX engine on the three larger models – 7230R, 7260R and 7280R – features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and exhaust filters, which include a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The two smaller models – 7200R and 7215R – are powered by 6.8-litre PowerTech PSX engine using series turbochargers, which combine a low-pressure fixed geometry and a high-pressure variable geometry turbocharger. With IPM, both engines deliver an additional 30hp for transport and non-stationary pto applications.
The electronically controlled viscous fan cooling system automatically adjusts fan speed to match load changes. To maximise efficiency of the cooling system, air is pushed into the engine compartment instead of being pulled in. This helps to minimise dirt intake and keeps the radiator clean, as well as increasing fuel efficiency by 3 to 6 per cent, depending on the application.
There is a choice of four transmissions, including PowerQuad Plus with speed matching and AutoQuad Plus with FieldCruise and EcoShift functions. The newly designed CommandQuad transmission includes an Efficiency Manager, which makes sure that the gear and throttle work hand in hand to optimise fuel efficiency, with automatic range shifting on the road.
There is a choice between a fully automatic mode, with gear and engine rpm selection depending on load, and a manual dial-up mode for targeted speed applications, which includes five ranges with four power speeds per range. In addition to the convenient CommandArm control, this transmission features 42kph Eco and 50kph options and a left hand reverser for easy direction changes. For maximum fuel efficiency, the AutoPowr continuously variable transmission has been completely redesigned, with all new hardware and control software.
The 7R Series tractors feature the same newly designed CommandView II cab as the 8R Series machines. New levels of comfort are provided by the spacious interior, the armrest controlled and roof-integrated air conditioning system, all-round visibility both day and night from an increased glass surface area and 360-degree lighting pattern, which delivers a 74 per cent increase in available luminescence, and more storage space than ever before.
For maximum operator comfort, these new tractors are optionally available with either ActiveSeat suspension to compensate for up to 90 per cent of the tractor’s vertical movements, or HCS Plus hydraulic cab suspension. This is a semi-active dampening system that anticipates loads and braking to maintain the overall balance of the cab, while still providing the driver with an accurate feel for the tractor and ground surface.
The new right-hand CommandArm console with its integrated CommandCenter display puts all the key tractor functions within easy reach. The 7in CommandCenter display is ISOBUS compatible and includes Access Manager as standard, while the optional touchscreen version also includes video capability. Both standard and touchscreen versions accommodate key applications such as the CAN-bus controlled SCVs and intelligent Total Equipment Control (iTEC), which allows the operator to automate multiple functions simultaneously.
In addition, important GreenStar precision farming applications can now be operated via the display, including AutoTrac and SprayerPro. The CommandArm console also incorporates the settings for cruise control, iTEC, transmission and pto settings, hitch functions, air conditioning and radio controls, mechanical front wheel drive (MFWD) engagement and the light controls. Tractors equipped with PowerQuad Plus or AutoQuad Plus transmissions feature an alternative right-hand control console. The optional GreenStar 2630 display enables the use of AutoTrac and Guidance Pro modules, and provides ISOBUS capability, documentation, video functionality, Access Manager and a stand-by mode.
The newly designed structural chassis of 7R Series tractors takes advantage of the high power density to cope easily with demanding load and draft applications. For putting maximum power onto the ground, the tractors are equipped with TLS Plus triple link suspension, in combination with MFWD. TLS Plus features self-levelling and automatic adjustment of axle sensitivity.
Also optionally available for these new tractors is John Deere’s exclusive ActiveCommand Steering system, which reduces steering effort in order to minimise operator fatigue and improve driving comfort and control. This fully electronic steering control system automatically adjusts the road wheel angle based on the lateral acceleration of the tractor.
This improves control when cornering at transport speeds, as well as the tractor’s ability to hold a straight line. Furthermore, the system’s Variable Ratio Steering module reduces lock-to-lock turning in the field, for quicker headland turns. Compared to a conventional steering system, ActiveCommand Steering produces a 75 per cent reduction in typical hand movement.
New large capacity pumps deliver increased oil flow and lift capacity from the closed-centre, pressure and flow compensated hydraulic system, which can operate a maximum of eight SCVs, up to six at the rear and up to three at the front of the tractor. Maximum lift capacity of the rear hitch is 9562kg on the 7200R, 7215R and 7230R and 10,788kg on the 7260R and 7280R, while the fully integrated front hitch (with pto) has a lift capacity of up to 5200kg. The tractors also feature a new pick-up hitch.
John Deere 7R Series tractors have a slightly longer wheelbase than previous models, and the top two models can be fitted with larger Group 49 tyres with a maximum diameter of 215cm. There is also the option of a flanged or rack & pinion rear axle for extra versatility, and the shorter overall length of the tractors has improved turning radius by 18 per cent.

John Deere has installed two new Titan FuelMaster 5000-litre tanks at its Langar, Nottingham headquarters. These have replaced existing 20,000-litre single-skinned steel tanks, which had become fouled and heavily corroded over time with sludge and sediment.

The installations were specified by The Oil Tank Company Ltd, who are Titan accredited suppliers and installers based in Rutland; the company offers a full maintenance service for both commercial and domestic installations.

Both the new plastic FuelMaster tanks are bunded (a tank within a tank), and they have dual 10-micron particle and water filters fitted as standard. The fuel from one tank is being used for on-site demonstrations of the latest John Deere tractors and other self-propelled machines, while the second tank, along with another new installation, a Titan EcoSafe 5000 bunded tank, stores oil for the company’s warehouse heating system.

The switch to the FuelMaster range has been driven by the industry’s shift from red diesel to ultra-low sulphur diesel (ULSD), which is better suited to power the modern tractor engine. Plastic tanks do not react with the diesel components, thus preventing the build-up of sludge and residue, and the finer filters with water traps protect the demonstration fleet’s fuel systems.

“With the change to ULSD and the likelihood of a bio-oil content within the new fuel, we had to make sure that our fuel hygiene was top of the class,” said John Deere’s division customer support manager Bob Holt.

“Our previous steel tanks were decades old, and there was no point in running the risk of contaminating the fuel systems of our demonstration machinery fleet. We are simply employing best practice, and would encourage our customers to take a long, hard look at not only their fuel storage facilities but also the quality of the fuel that they are purchasing.”

The Oil Tank Company has been dealing with Titan for the last 10 years – a testament, according to the company’s founder and managing director, Simon Ellis, to both the quality of the product and the customer service they offer.

He said: “Titan has long been the market leader in fuel storage; their products and service are second to none. For example, the FuelMaster range comes fully set up ready to be installed, and only requires connecting to an electrical supply. We then maintain the systems after installation, typically going in after 12 to 18 months to check the filters and pipeworks.”

The FuelMaster tanks were installed with new bases and firewalls, and the installation is fully compliant with the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations 2001.

John Deere’s HarvestLab sensor for self-propelled forage harvesters will, from next season, be able to analyse a range of crop constituents including sugars, starch, protein and crude fibre content, quickly and accurately while on the move.
 
Farmers and contractors looking to generate extra income can therefore benefit from this new advance in precision farming technology. The ability to now measure sugar levels in real time also provides the opportunity to manage the silage additive process more efficiently, using a range of commercially available automatic variable rate application systems.
 
This latest version of HarvestLab is the first commercial system of its kind on the market, and is based on near infrared (NIR) sensor technology manufactured by Zeiss Jena. Using the additional crop data, the HarvestLab sensor can help livestock farmers to optimise their herd’s performance from silage, more accurately balanced against the correct amounts of extra bought-in feeds when required.
 
Similarly, operators of bioenergy plants can more easily calculate the optimum amounts of biomass material to use for efficient energy production. John Deere’s 7050 Series i-specification self-propelled forage harvesters are ideally suited to harvesting maize and other energy crops for biomass, and can chop consistently to the necessary length for bioenergy plants, down to 4mm.
 
The forager’s integrated ‘intelligent’ technology package includes the HarvestLab sensor and AutoLOC. Using the machine’s infinitely variable transmission, this already provides automatic adjustment of the length of cut depending on the dry matter content of the crop being harvested. This is based on settings programmed in by the operator on the machine’s in-cab GreenStar 2630 touch screen display prior to work, according to end user requirements.
 
As the forage dry matter rate within a field varies due to differences in soil, seed varieties and other external factors such as trees on the headlands, AutoLOC automatically adjusts the chop length in 1mm increments based on the preset values, to produce the optimum feed quality from the harvested crop. HarvestDoc also records all the necessary crop and harvest data for the contractor’s invoicing process.
 
Mounted on the forager spout, the HarvestLab system has been independently verified by DLG to consistently deliver +/-2 points of accuracy.