News & Events

John Deere has launched its first mobile phone app in the UK and Ireland, following the introduction of the John Deere FarmSight wireless technology strategy.

The free JDLink mobile telematics application allows arable farmers and contractors in particular to monitor and manage their equipment fleets on the move, from a smartphone. While the app does not have as much functionality as the full JDLink system on a laptop or desktop computer, it does include the following features:

- multiple machine mapping;
- directions to machines (based on Google maps);
- ping and share location of machines;
- view and acknowledge message alerts.

After downloading the app, customers who already have a JDLink account can simply log in and check their machines’ location and service status. Non-users can use a Demo function to explore the features provided.

The newly developed JDLink Inside telematics machine monitoring system includes hardware and a JDLink Ultimate subscription for the following John Deere product ranges – new 2012 models are being supplied with a complimentary subscription for the machine’s first year:

- new Stage IIIB compliant John Deere 8R Series and 7R Series tractors;
- new Stage IIIB compliant John Deere W660, all T-Series and all S-Series combines;
- self-propelled forage harvesters.

John Deere’s proven multi-brand satellite guidance system is now available as a more fully integrated solution for other makes of tractor and older John Deere models.

New AutoTrac Controller will be featured on the John Deere stand at Cereals 2012 in June, as part of the company’s AMS (Agricultural Management Solutions) precision farming display. It provides non-John Deere and mixed fleet users in particular with the same benefits and advantages as the established AutoTrac automatic steering system.

These include less operator fatigue; consistent accuracy, with reduced overlaps and misses leading to increased productivity and machine efficiency; less wear and tear on equipment; and typical fuel savings of 10 to 15 per cent. Experience with AutoTrac has shown that automatic guidance can achieve savings of between £6000 and £10,000 a year on a 500ha arable farm, for example.

AutoTrac Controller provides fast line acquisition and can be used at all accuracy levels, including the free StarFire 1 signal (30cm), StarFire 2 (10cm) and StarFire RTK (2cm). It operates with John Deere’s AMS GreenStar 2 1800 and GreenStar 3 2630 displays plus the StarFire iTC and 3000 satellite receivers to provide improved accuracy and repeatability, compared to other universal steering systems. It is also compatible with John Deere’s iGuide automatic implement guidance and GreenStar documentation systems.

AutoTrac Controller needs to be fitted by a John Deere dealer, which may take one or two days depending on the level of modification required. Currently it can be fitted to selected John Deere 6000/6010 and 7000/7010 Series tractors plus Fendt Vario, Case IH Steiger and Case IH MX Magnum models – further information on approved platforms can be found at the www.StellarSupport.com website.

In addition to AutoTrac Controller, the Universal AutoTrac 200 aftermarket steering kit continues to be available for more than 300 models of John Deere and competitive self-propelled machines, including combines and foragers as well as tractors.

John Deere’s latest award-winning round baler and forage harvester technology will be featured on the company’s stand at Grassland UK 2012 at the Bath & West Showground, Somerset in May.

The revolutionary Fast Release System (FRS) featured on new 900 Series variable chamber round balers, which employs a unique ‘curtain’ design to replace the traditional heavy rear door, won an innovation award at the FIMA fair in Zaragoza, Spain in February. Now in production for the 2012 season, the 960 and 990 model balers employ this state-of-the-art technology to significantly improve baler output, bale density and operator comfort, which can lead to savings of up to an hour a day during harvest.

Working together with the exclusive full-frame design for reliability and durability, FRS speeds up the bale ejection process by enabling the operator to unload the completed bale in less than five seconds, which is up to 10 seconds faster than a conventional machine.

The 900 Series balers are available with a choice of 2.2m wide RotoFlow or MaxiCut 13- or 25-knife precutter high capacity pick-ups, and produce bale diameters from 80 to 160cm and 80 to 185cm respectively. Both balers are ISOBUS certified and can be equipped with a GreenStar 1800 display for controlling most of the key machine settings and functions.

The SIMA 2011 Gold Medal award winning Tractor Implement Automation (TIA) system is also now available as an option on the 900 Series balers. When operated with a tractor featuring ISOBUS, a continuously variable transmission and electronic SCVs, this baler automation system also significantly reduces the harvest workload – instead of the driver having to stop the tractor to open and close the rear of the baler, TIA manages everything using simple fingertip controls to complete the baling process.

John Deere’s advanced HarvestLab constituent sensing system for the 7050 Series self-propelled forage harvester range was also awarded a DLG Silver Medal at Agritechnica 2011.

The system has been enhanced for 2012 to sense additional maize silage quality parameters, such as protein, sugar, starch, fibre (ADF/NDF) and ash content, either on–the-go on the forager or as a portable stationary unit for use by both farmers and feed nutritionists. This is designed to help silage producers manage their feed rations and additive calculations more efficiently, and to provide better control of feed costs.

There is also a new interest free finance offer available from John Deere Financial on all new John Deere round balers ordered by 30th April 2012, in the UK only. The offer is for 0+36 monthly payments at zero per cent interest, with the amount financed limited to 50 per cent of the retail value.

As usual, other credit profiles are available on request, and the availability of finance is subject to status and terms & conditions – further details are available at www.JohnDeereFinancial.co.uk or from John Deere’s UK dealers.

John Deere dealer Templetuohy Farm Machinery Ltd has taken over the Co Wicklow trading area from Derek Plant Farm Machinery, providing full sales, service and parts support from its existing branches at Enniscorthy, Co Wexford and Portlaoise, Co Laois.

Following some internal reorganisation, four full-time staff have been appointed specifically to support customers in Co Wicklow. Two experienced TFM salesmen, Ken Goggin and Peter Breen, are now looking after the new area in addition to their existing responsibilities, while John Conroy (ex-Matt Buckley Tractor Spares and John Deere dealer Murphy’s Garage Headford) has been taken on at the Thurles branch to handle sales in Co Tipperary.

A new service technician, Philip Driver, has been appointed to cover the West Wicklow area, while a second technician vacancy has been advertised and should be filled shortly. Both these technicians’ service vehicles will stock a range of fast moving parts, and the dealership will provide guaranteed next day parts delivery from the Enniscorthy and Portlaoise branches to ensure continuity of supply and service to John Deere customers in Co Wicklow.

Templetuohy Farm Machinery, which was established at Thurles in 1981, is also launching a new hire fleet service across the whole of its trading area, which includes a fourth branch at Clonmel, Co Tipperary. In addition to John Deere’s full line of agricultural equipment, TFM’s other key franchises include Caterpillar and Schaeffer farm loaders, and Lemken ploughs and cultivation equipment.

Integrated Emissions Control system part of optimized technology solution

WATERLOO, Iowa (March 2, 2012) — John Deere has announced the continuation of its planned building block approach to meet United States Final Tier 4 and European Union Stage IV emissions regulations, which require particulate matter (PM) levels established by Interim Tier 4/Stage III B regulations to be maintained, while requiring an additional 80 per cent reduction in nitrogen oxides (NOx) from previous regulations.

Introduction timing will vary by model and geography, but in general, deliveries will begin to take place during sales year 2014 for larger than 174hp/130kW models and will be extended to lower power classes through 2016. The timing difference is due to differences in regulation date by engine power class.

To meet Final Tier 4/Stage IV emissions regulations in some power categories, John Deere has developed the Integrated Emissions Control system — an optimised after-treatment solution paired with the performance enhanced, fuel-efficient Interim Tier 4/Stage III B engine platform featuring proven cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). The John Deere Integrated Emissions Control system will typically consist of a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), diesel particulate filter (DPF) and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of off-highway applications. John Deere will continue to tailor its Integrated Emissions Control System configurations to fit a variety of off-highway applications.

“At John Deere, we continue to offer the right combination of technologies at the right time to meet increasingly stringent emissions regulations and customer needs,” said John Piasecki, director of worldwide marketing, sales and customer support for John Deere Power Systems. “Exhaustive research and testing has determined that an application-specific SCR system that is well integrated with our proven Interim Tier 4/Stage III B engine platform will be the best solution to achieve Final Tier 4/Stage IV emissions compliance while delivering the power, performance, ease of operation, fluid efficiency, reliability and economical operating cost that our customers expect from John Deere.”

Consisting of an exhaust filter and SCR after-treatment components that are optimised and fully integrated, the new Integrated Emissions Control system will allow John Deere engines to utilise less diesel exhaust fluid (DEF, eg AdBlue) than alternative Interim Tier 4 SCR technology solutions. Lower DEF consumption means the DEF tank size can be smaller — minimising the impact on vehicle applications, extending DEF filter service intervals and reducing operator involvement. Monitored and controlled by proprietary electronics within John Deere’s enhanced engine control unit (ECU), the Integrated Emissions Control system also provides outstanding fluid efficiency without sacrificing overall performance.

Like John Deere’s approach to previous tiers, its Final Tier 4/Stage IV technology solution has been designed to consider overall performance and operating efficiency, which takes into account total fluid consumption including diesel fuel and additional fluids such as diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). John Deere Final Tier 4/Stage IV engines will operate efficiently with traditional ultra low-sulphur diesel as well as biodiesel 5 to 20 per cent (B5-B20) blends meeting applicable ASTM standards, providing optimal performance and fuel choice flexibility.

John Deere is one of the few manufacturers dedicated to providing efficient power to meet the needs and rigours of off-highway applications. Designing engines for OEM applications and their own agricultural, construction and forestry machines provides John Deere with unique expertise in integrating the engine into the rest of the vehicle including the drivetrain, hydraulics, electronic control unit (ECU), cooling package and other vehicle systems for optimised efficiency. This integrated process will benefit John Deere machine owners and OEM customers by maximising performance, operator convenience, fluid economy and overall value.

John Deere’s proven worldwide dealer network of over 4000 service locations is trained and prepared to fully support customers and their Final Tier 4/Stage IV engines.

John Deere’s new global suite of advanced technologies under the name FarmSight, designed to help optimise machinery and farm operations, will be the main focus of the company’s stand at the 2012 Precision Farming Event in March.

The John Deere FarmSight strategy integrates wireless technology into the arable farmer’s and contractor’s business, as well as the John Deere dealership, to a much deeper level than ever before. In the future, the system will connect equipment, owners, operators, dealers and agricultural consultants in order to enhance productivity and increase efficiency, by sharing information as well as sustainable practices to help reduce overall input costs.

A range of integrated solutions will include user-friendly monitors, sensors and wireless networks for machinery, and agronomic data to facilitate operational decision making. One of the first John Deere FarmSight elements is the newly developed JDLink Inside telematics machine monitoring system.

This advanced, web-based telematics solution includes hardware and a JDLink Ultimate subscription for the following John Deere product ranges – new models are being supplied with a complimentary subscription for the machine’s first year:

* new Stage IIIB compliant John Deere 8R Series and 7R Series tractors;

* new Stage IIIB compliant John Deere W660, all T-Series and all S-Series combines;
* self-propelled forage harvesters.

Besides remote monitoring of a machine’s location, fuel consumption and status, JDLink Ultimate also enables remote monitoring and diagnostics via John Deere’s exclusive Service ADVISOR technology. Using this system, the machine automatically generates message alerts via e-mail or mobile phone (SMS) when service or maintenance is required.

Based on the machine owner’s preference, message alerts can be sent directly to the owner or fleet manager, the John Deere dealer or both. This entirely new level of service increases the efficiency of machine diagnostics, maintenance and repair, and so reduces machine downtime.

With the customer’s agreement, the dealer is able to remotely access machines from his office base. This enables him to access service or fault codes, as well as details about the machine. He can also make software updates and diagnoses from the dealership. And with full JDLink access, he’ll also know the machine's exact location, so that the service technician can arrive precisely when and where he’s needed.

A new optional extra for JDLink Ultimate, to be introduced later in 2012, features remote access to allow the subscriber to view the machine’s GreenStar 2630 in-cab display. This would let the machine owner or the dealer assist the operator with a problem without having to travel to the machine, as well as providing remote diagnosis of the machine or third party ISOBUS implements; it could also be used for machine optimisation.

Another new element of the FarmSight strategy is Machine Sync, which was one of five innovations awarded a DLG Silver Medal at Agritechnica 2011. Designed for use with combines and tractors, Machine Sync enables these machines to exchange data on-the-move to improve the efficiency of the harvesting and unloading operation, and allows the combine operator to ‘guide’ a tractor and trailer alongside the harvester.

In addition, as one of a new range of complementary services being provided within the FarmSight initiative, a fast growing number of participating John Deere dealers can now offer RTK (real time kinematic) satellite signal availability in their trading areas.

The need for increased, repeatable positioning accuracy (to +/-2cm), specifically for automatic guidance and machine automation applications, drives the need for this new RTK service. It is recommended for customers who require the very highest levels of accuracy for crop establishment, treatment and harvesting applications, such as potato growers or those wishing to carry out controlled traffic farming (CTF).

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.