John Deere is raising the bar for forage harvesting in NZ with the launch of its new F8 and F9 Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters
Offering a significantly enhanced driving experience, cutting-edge automation and precision farming technology, the F8 and F9 forage harvesters will be available to order later this year.
“Operators will immediately sense the improved driving experience,” says John Deere Australia and New Zealand marketing manager for small ag and turf, Erin Wagstaff.
“The new wider cabins have been designed with the operator in mind, with comfortable adjustable seats, an optional electric closing door to ensure a perfect seal and clever storage solutions in the armrests and behind the seats.”
There are even dedicated holders for drinks, smartphones, keys and larger items.
With operators relying so heavily on smartphones to manage their work and personal lives, integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allows for seamless connection.
For superior comfort and visibility, the F8 and F9 series feature ActiveSeat, which swivels 16° in both directions. The optional ActiveSeat II offers electric controls, cooling/heating, massage, and active suspension technology which absorbs up to 90% of vertical movements.
Slim cab pillars and sweeping windows provide panoramic visibility from the header to the 230°-rotating spout, while a redesigned rear axle steering system delivers an impressive six-metre turning radius for faster headland turns.
To enhance the driver’s experience, the F8 and F9 forage harvesters were built around the operator and equipped with intuitive controls for machine and harvesting settings.
“We have reimagined the design to deliver not only a powerful machine, but also an exceptional driving experience, allowing drivers to push harvesting to new limits while enjoying first-class comfort,” Erin says.
Different driver profiles can be stored in the machine settings to minimise adjustments and the new ergonomic CommandPRO joystick features up to 11 customisable buttons and is easily programmed via the G5/G5Plus CommandCenter touchscreen display, which has shortcuts and is context-sensitive to help simplify navigation.
Proven engine power
The JD14X engine has proven its power in John Deere X9 combines and 9RX tractors and will now power all six F8 models of the SPFH, offering superior performance and complying with European Stage V emission standards to support sustainable operations. The engine power range (rated ECE R120) starts at 313 kW (419 HP) with the F8 100 model and the new top model F8 600 delivering 475 kW (636 HP).
In the F9 series, the JD18X engine ranges from 515 kW (690 HP) to 603 kW (809 HP) and delivers peak performance with remarkable fuel efficiency. It features John Deere engine controls, a high-pressure common-rail fuel system, and serial turbochargers with cooled exhaust gas recirculation and no need for diesel exhaust fluid.
The third engine option, the Liebherr 24.2L V12, powers the F9 900 and 1000 models, delivering up to 750 kW (1006 HP) ensuring maximum productivity in even the most extreme harvesting conditions.
All models feature HarvestMotion technology to maximise productivity at reduced engine speeds and deliver constant power over a wide rpm range, resulting in excellent drivability for the operator and improved fuel efficiency.
Advanced Technology Stack
The F8 and F9 models all feature a comprehensive technology stack designed to optimise performance and reduce operator effort and stress.
“The F8 and F9 can be equipped with advanced automation and John Deere Precision AgTechnology, which is the best we have ever offered in forage harvesting,” says Erin.
“From Ground Speed Automation to intelligent crop tracking or ProTouch Harvest, these features help boost efficiency and forage quality.
“John Deere Precision Ag Technology options, such as AutoPathTM can be added as required to support more efficient operations.”
Highlights summary
- New cab with numerous comfort features
- Intuitive controls for machine and harvesting settings
- CommandPRO joystick with up to 11 customisable buttons
- G5/G5Plus CommandCenter touchscreen display
- Comprehensive technology stack with Ground Speed Automation, Active Fill Control 3.0, ProTouch Harvest and more
- All F8 models with the JD14X engine and HarvestMotion
- New inoculant dosing system with insulated larger tank
- Improved kernel processors to further optimise silage quality