John Deere has announced its new 9R Series tractor range, headed by the 691 (maximum) hp flagship models 9R 640 and 9RX 640. The latest 9R, 9RT and 9RX machines have not only been made stronger and more efficient, but also more intelligent. Operators and farm managers will benefit from their increasing connectivity and automation features.

All the tractors use the same new and highly fuel-efficient 13.6-litre John Deere engine as the X9 combines, except for the top of the range 640hp (rated) models which are still powered by the proven 15-litre Cummins engine. The six-cylinder John Deere engine with its HPCR fuel injection system has been developed to operate more efficiently, with noise levels reduced by up to 50 per cent. In order to transfer the enormous engine power to the ground, all models offer additional ballasting options that allow a gross weight of 30.4 tonnes.

In addition to their tremendous power, the new tractors have become smarter. The StarFire 6000 receiver is integrated into the cab roof and is included as standard, along with the large 4600 CommandCenter display, full AEF ISOBUS compatibility and AutoTrac activation. John Deere also offers a full activation package for maximum automation at an additional price of just £1425. This includes Turn Automation, Section Control, Variable Rate Control, Passive Implement Guidance, In-Field Data Sharing, Machine Sync and now also new AutoPath row guidance.

John Deere’s new AutoSetup allows farmers and contractors to pre-schedule jobs in the customer’s personalised Operations Center. Jobs appear automatically on the cab display when the machine enters the field and the operator only has to confirm with a single button click. The system supports settings such as client, farm, field, field boundaries, tracks, implement widths/offsets, products, application rates, site specific applications, documentation settings and operator name.

Once the job is completed, all data can be transferred wirelessly to the Operations Center. AutoSetup not only saves up to 90 per cent of setting up time in the field, but also provides clear documentation and avoids errors and data losses.

In the field operators will appreciate the extremely comfortable ride. This is a result of not only the individually developed suspension systems for the 9R, 9RT and 9RX but also the new cab. John Deere’s exclusive HydraCushion front axle suspension is now available for all 9R Series models, while the new cab features are the same as those introduced on the new 7R and 8R Series tractors launched at Agritechnica 2019.

The second generation ActiveSeat is available with leather trim, heating, active air circulation, massage function and various adjustable seat settings. A top quality 6.5in DAB+ touchscreen radio with 6.1 sound system provides state-of-the-art infotainment and is compatible with Apple CarPlay, while LED lighting provides excellent visibility. Thanks to the reduced size of the exhaust aftertreatment system and optional cameras, visibility on all sides has been further improved.

Besides their extra performance, automation and comfort, the new 9R Series tractors have been developed with the aim of maximising reliability and reducing operating costs even further. Among many other enhancements the e18 transmission, axles, track drives and chassis have been significantly reinforced for higher capacity and productivity.

In order to reduce maintenance effort and cost, many service intervals have been extended – for example, the new fan is now serviced every 5000 hours, the same as the torsional damper. Reflecting the tractors’ reliability, John Deere has doubled the standard factory warranty to two years or 2000 hours. In addition, the optional PowerGard Protection/Plus warranty extension terms are now even more cost-effective, reaching up to eight years or 8000 hours.

John Deere’s state of the art dealer Connected Support solutions also ensure maximum uptime. With Expert Alerts, potential machine damage can be predicted and the likelihood of expensive repairs can be reduced or completely avoided, as well as any unplanned downtime.

New John Deere 9R Series model line-up: