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John Deere is introducing its 500R self-propelled sprayer to the NZ market.
John Deere is introducing its 500R self-propelled sprayer to the NZ market, offering small-grain growers a new option designed for precise application, operator comfort and efficient field performance.
Available from model year (MY) 2027, the 500R sees a front-mounted cab and rear-engine layout with JD application technology, automated boom control and hydraulic track adjustment. Balanced weight distribution is said to promote improved traction in the paddock and comfort on the road, while a narrow profile and 2.55-metre transport width helps operators move easily between jobs.
The 500R is available with new modular steel booms in 30-, 36- and 42-metre working widths, double- or triple-folding configurations and 25cm or 50cm nozzle spacing. Maximum spraying speed increases to 30kph, allowing operators to cover more hectares during tight application windows while maintaining application quality.
BoomTrac Pro 2 uses five ultrasonic sensors on boom widths below 36m or seven units on larger working widths, helping the boom to follow ground or crop contours, while maintaining a consistent application height. A new centre frame also provides active boom yaw and roll control to counteract chassis movement or slope effects, to maintain application accuracy and reducing operator workload
PowrSpray, ExactApply and BoomTrac Pro 2 technologies work together to support precise application. PowrSpray uses a dual-circuit pump system, while ExactApply provides individual nozzle management and pulse width modulation to maintain consistent droplet size across a range of ground speeds.
Automatic turn compensation supports consistent application on curved tracks, and for MY27 machines the system can apply up to 15 different rates across the boom width, increasing resolution for prescription applications.
Visibility from the cab to the boom has been maximised to provide operators with a clear view of their working environment, complemented by the G5Plus CommandCenter featuring a larger screen, 75% faster performance and high-definition 1080P resolution.
The CommandDrive variable speed hydrostatic transmission features a single hydrostatic pump, powering four variable wheel motors, mated to a heavy-duty planetary final drive hub. The independent wheel motors automatically adjust power based on weight distribution and wheel speed, optimising stability and grip in all conditions.
Production of the MY27 John Deere 500R series is scheduled to begin in late 2026, with first Australian customer deliveries expected from early 2027.
www.deere.co.nz
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The Advanced Vehicle Suspension system, available on Optum 360, 390, and 440 models, responds to changing conditions, automatically adjusting how the suspension reacts to absorbs shocks and controlling vehicle movement.
In operation, sensors monitor the vibrations transmitted from the tractor chassis to the operator cabin, allowing the system to adjust suspension damping in real time. The control system incorporates key priorities, such as comfort at lower speeds and stability as speed increases, while also reacting to factors such as lower tyre pressures, where the tyres absorb more of the initial shock.
Case IH said as suspension requirements change throughout the working day, as tractors move between the paddock and road transport, the system manages suspension response in the background as tasks, speeds and conditions change, leaving the operator without the need to make manual adjustments.
Richard Hollins, Optum series tractors global product manager, said: “Pioneering technology must earn its place in the working day. Farmers and contractors will judge an investment by what it delivers, including manageable ownership costs, dependable up-time and the versatility to tackle different jobs. With AVS, we are putting intelligent control to work for comfort and stability, without giving the operator another setting to manage.”
Organised by FederUnacoma, the Italian Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers Federation, the contest has been part of EIMA since 1986, with the Technical Evolution distinction awarded to products that introduce original improvements to solutions already manufactured or patented.
www.caseih.com
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