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John Deere 8R series tractor.
The latest John Deere 8R series tractors, yet to be released, have already won the only gold medal at the upcoming Agtritechnica event scheduled for November.
Full details are scarce, but an 8R with an electro-mechanical eAuto-Powr transmission is claimed to be the first IVT (infinitely variable transmission) of its type.
Rural News understands the layout of the new gearbox sees the integral hydraulic motors being replaced by electrical units, while an integrated generator will deliver 100kW (135hp) for secondary/external use.
To demonstrate the concept, John Deere has partnered with Belgian company Joskin, which has created a modified version of one of its tri-axle slurry tankers. The unit has both rear axles driven electrically, effectively creating an 8WD combination.
The companies say this will increase traction and reduce wheel slip, while at the tractor end the electrical portion of the gearbox will improve efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.
While tractors combines and machinery for agriculture and construction is still its key business, John Deere appears to be taking opportunities in the hightech sector via acquisition, with the recent purchase of Sentera, a Minnesota-based company that specialises in equipment for capturing and interpreting aerial images.
John Deere have recently announced upgrades to its round baler offerings, with all models of this latest generation equipped with advanced ISOBUS capabilities, allowing them to be fully integrated into the John Deere Operations Center.
With agriculture in New Zealand coming out of the doldrums over the last few months and the recent announcement of a 20% tax write-off for capital purchases, it likely that farmers will be spending on tractors.
Recent results from its 2024 financial year has seen global farm machinery player John Deere record a significant slump in the profits of its agricultural division over the last year, with a 64% drop in the last quarter of the year, compared to that of 2023.
Farmers across New Zealand are renowned for their productivity and efficiency, always wanting to do more with less, while getting the most from each pass of the paddock.
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