John Deere has added three high-horsepower models to the 8R and 8RX ranges, offering 440hp, 490hp and 540hp.
Each model is powered by the JD14 13.6-litre engine, which can deliver up to 634hp through Peak Power Intelligent Power Management (PP IPM), making the 8R/8RX 540 the most powerful standard design tractor on the market.
“The new additions broaden the capability of the 8 series to support large farms focused on continuous operational optimisation, achieving higher productivity with fewer, more reliable machines while maintaining the flexibility of a standard tractor,” said Marcus Luchmann, go-to-market manager for tractors 150+ hp in Europe & CIS.
“They also address the needs of expanding farms that intend to manage more hectares with the same workforce.”
A maximum torque level of 2,695Nm is available from the engine, with constant power available from 1,450rpm to 1,900rpm, with PP IPM producing an additional 40hp from 1,600rpm.
8R models are available with tyres up to 2.3m at the rear and 1.85m at the front, with single- and dual-wheel configurations, all available with a single-line central tyre inflation system.
New 8RX tractors feature an updated four-track system, with redesigned undercarriages and Soucy CustomFit P-series belts. The choice of belt is said to reduce belt stress, extending the operating life, and offering contact areas up to 4.87sq m.
Power is put to the ground through the eAutoPowr transmission, with an electro-mechanical split path layout, which replaces hydrostats with electric motors.
On wheeled models, this provides road speeds of up to 60kph at just 1,440rpm, or 50kph at 1,200rpm. New ILS Roll Control adjusts the suspension stiffness during cornering and at higher transport speeds.
The launches mark the start of the company’s large farm optimisation concept, bringing together larger equipment, increased automation and fleet management. For this, the 8R and 8RX are equipped with a StarFire 7500 receiver, a G5Plus CommandCenter display and JDLink connectivity.