John Deere has unveiled what it labels the most powerful tractor ever at the Commodity Classic in Houston, Texas, at the launch of the all new 9RX Series Tractor lineup, including three new high-horsepower, four-track models.
Driven by the JD18 engine from John Deere Power Systems, the 9RX Series is made up of the 9RX 710 (710hp), the 9RX 770 (770hp) and the 9RX 830 which delivers a market-leading 830hp to Australian producers.
John Deere production systems manager Ben Kelly said the 9RX range marked a new era in high-powered performance, to meet the demands of modern farming.
"With shifting weather patterns, labour shortages and growing input costs, the ability to prepare, plant and harvest rapidly and efficiently has never been more important to our customers," Mr Kelly said.
"We are proud and extremely excited to bring the new 9RX Series to market, along with new engine and hydraulic options, new technology packages, cab updates and a suite of other Model-Year 25 updates, that will optimise operating speeds and in-field efficiency, and support farming operations in being autonomy-ready."
New engines and hydraulic power options
The three new 9RX models will be powered by the JD18 engine from John Deere Power Systems, which is a Final Tier 4/Stage V-compliant 18-litre engine that meets emissions requirements using exhaust-gas recirculation technology without the need for Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) - a market-leading feature.
In combination with the new engine, an optional, new 635 L/min triple-pump hydraulic system gives farmers the confidence to pull wider and heavier air-seeding trains over rolling ground, while still maintaining tractor and fan speed.
"These aren't just incremental improvements, but rather defining changes in power and technology that will drive efficiency and profitability outcomes," Mr Kelly said.
Autonomy-ready option
To help farmers prepare for autonomous operation, each of the new 9RX Series tractors will be equipped with autonomous-ready capabilities in base, allowing them to quickly and easily make the switch to fully autonomous operation in the future.
"As fully autonomous farming moves closer, we know how important it is for the investment farmers make in equipment to have true longevity as the production landscape changes - and we want the switch to autonomous to be as quick and simple as possible for our customers," Mr Kelly said.
"The autonomous-ready package offers the hardware and safety features we know today will be required for autonomous operations in the future."
Key features of the package include rear implement ethernet, new visibility features, a back-up alarm, a 330-amp alternator, a brake controller and valve, and all the necessary connectors, controllers and harnesses.
CommandView 4 Plus cab upgrades
The new CommandView 4 Plus cab offers a 15 per cent increase in floor space and 20pc improvement in visibility from the right-hand side, increasing storage capacity and comfort, while a full three degrees of motion and an isolated subframe protect operators from uneven terrain and noise.
"Covering large areas and driving a tractor for many hours a day can place strain on even the most experienced operators," Mr Kelly said.
"The additional floor space and enhanced visibility offered by the 9RX Series means a much more comfortable work environment, including extra food and drink storage, and a clearer view."
Advanced technology package
The new 9RX models feature industry-best technology, including the G5Plus CommandCenter Display and integrated StarFire 7500 receiver. An optional G5 Advanced technology package with SF-RTK offers the ultimate in precision capabilities.
"The combination of the G5Plus display and the optional G5 Advanced technology package gives farmers access to virtually the entire John Deere portfolio of intelligence and productivity features," Mr Kelly said.
"This includes AutoTrac Turn Automation for automated headland turns, as well as tools for more precise implement guidance and the automated creation of guidance lines.
"Importantly, John Deere Operations Center and JDLink connectivity delivers a complete technology operating system to collect, manage and analyse field and machine data, anywhere and at any time, including from a mobile device."
It all adds up
Mr Kelly said the addition of the powerful 9RX Series lineup would lead the way in helping farmers meet critical windows in their unique production cycles.
"For small grain farmers, the higher engine and hydraulic power means they can pull fully-loaded air seeders over virtually any type of terrain without slowing down, while the ability to pull wider implements will fast-track field preparation tasks such as deep ripping and high-speed disc tillage," he said.
The new MY25 high-horsepower 9RX models will be available for order from mid-March for delivery in early 2025, with additional model-year updates available for 7 and 8 Series tractors.
