Following success in 2011 with their 900 Series round baler at the SIMA show, John Deere has been awarded gold and silver for another two of their innovations, both of which will be on display next month at SIMA show in Paris.

Taking gold is the John Deere multi-fuel tractor, a research machine featuring an engine that can be operated with different types of mineral or bio-based fuel, either individually or as blends, in a single tank.

Input sensors measure various properties of the fuel or blend in the fuel tank. Engine settings are then optimised to comply with emission standards through the electric control unit (ECU) which the machine boasts. A model based software programme analyses signals from the emission output sensors to check the specified engine setting parameters.

This single tank solution can be used with any pure or blended fuel, including plant derived biofuels produced on-farm. However, if such a design was to be marketed in Europe, the relevant legislators would have to adapt the certification methods used for internal combustion engines in agriculture, which are currently based on diesel fuel only.

Coming in just behind with a silver medal is Deere’s Remote Display Access (RDA). Due to be available from late 2013, this telematics solution allows remote access to the on-board GreenStar display unit. The systems allows operators to receive immediate assistance from the farm or dealership to get machine support, implement set up, machine optimisation and troubleshooting. It also allows for ISOBUS and, according to Deere, will mean less downtime especially at busy times of the year.

Both products will be on show at SIMA held in Paris in February 2013.