NZ Technicians Honoured at 2026 John Deere Awards in Brisbane
Leading John Deere technicians and apprentices from New Zealand and Australians were recognised at the recent sixth annual JD Technician of the Year Awards, held in Brisbane.
Set to join what the company calls the Next Generation Engine (NGE) lineup, the JD5 (5.0-litre) offers an anticipated power range from 125– 268hp (93–200kW), while the 7.5-litre JD8 250–389hp (187–290kW). Both series will be compatible with renewable diesel fuel and biodiesel blends, with the anticipated launch for the JD8 intended for 2029, followed by the JD5.
The company also showed the latest Kreisel batteries, with the KBE.59.750M, which is targeted for production later this year, as well as the KBE.24.450S, KBE.39.750S, and KBE.39.750C.
Also seen at last year’s Agritechnica, all batteries combine patented cell immersion cooling technology with advanced software systems to optimise battery life performance. This modular architecture allows for multipack configurations, enabling stacking to suit a wide range of off-highway vehicle types, while JDPS is also developing both stationary and mobile charging options.
“John Deere Power Systems is strategically investing in the future of diesel technology to ensure it remains a viable, high-performance solution for the long term,” comments senior vice president Pierre Guyot. “The expansion of our Next Generation Engine lineup provides the highhorsepower foundation many customers rely on, while our simultaneous growth in battery and hybrid offerings creates a versatile, multiple-pathway approach to power.”
