The technology stack includes Active Fill Control, which uses a stereo camera system to control the rotation and flap position of the spout automatically, tracking transport vehicles and aiming the crop for ideal fill strategy.
John Deere is raising the bar for forage harvesting in Australia 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.
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John Deere Australia and New Zealand’s Erin Wagstaff said operators will immediately sense the improved driving experience of the F8 and F9 forage harvesters, which will be available to order later this year.
“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,” Ms Wagstaff said.
“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, Ms Wagstaff said integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allowed for seamless connection.
“The premium infotainment system includes Bluetooth connectivity, radio, streaming, and hands-free calling, ensuring crystal-clear sound quality, while customers will also benefit from the multiple conveniently placed charging options, including 12V and USB ports.”
For superior comfort and visibility, the F8 and F9 series feature ActiveSeat, which swivels 16 degrees in both directions. The optional ActiveSeat II offers electric controls, cooling/heating, massage, and active suspension technology which absorbs up to 90 per cent of vertical movements.
Slim cab pillars and sweeping windows provide panoramic visibility from the header to the 230 degree rotating spout, while a redesigned rear axle steering system delivers an impressive six-metre turning radius for faster headland turns.
John Deere’s new F8 and F9 Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters offer a significantly enhanced driving experience, cutting-edge automation and precision farming technology.
Specific forage harvesting
To enhance the driver’s experience, Ms Wagstaff said 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,” she said.
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.
The new forage harvester specific screen is 35 per cent larger and 75 per cent faster than previous displays, with a high-definition 1080p screen and a menu which enables operators to quickly adjust machine functions with one fingertip.
An optional G5Plus Extended Monitor doubles the 12.8” screen, allowing users to monitor more functions simultaneously and adjust as needed. Essential data is displayed via infographics on bright, easy-to-read screens on the corner post display.
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 self-propelled forage harvesters, 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 (models F9 500 to F9 700), 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.
The new wider cabins have been designed with the operator in mind and include comfortable adjustable seats and sweeping windows with panoramic visibility from the header to the 230 degrees rotating spout.
Advanced technology stack
Ms Wagstaff said 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 Ag Technology, which is the best we have ever offered in forage harvesting,” she said.
“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 AutoPath TM can be added as required to support more efficient operations.”
Regardless of conditions, Ground Speed Automation ensures the machine constantly harvests at maximum productivity and optimal efficiency while minimising operator effort and stress.
Active Fill Control uses a stereo camera system to control the rotation and flap position of the spout automatically, tracking transport vehicles and aiming the crop for ideal fill strategy.
The ProTouch Harvest system offers single-click headland automation for maize, grass, or whole crop silage, managing header lift, spout control, AutoTrac, Active Fill Control, and Ground Speed Automation for easy headland turns.
In addition, when switching between road and field, ProTouch technology handles up to nine essential functions, including beacon lights, 4WD, settings for engine speed management, and spout positioning.
Improved silage quality
The F8 and F9 models are designed to optimise silage quality with the DuraDrum cutterhead performing with remarkable flexibility for various harvesting requirements.
The new inoculant dosing system, IDS 2.0, works with HarvestLab sensor readings to optimise silage quality with a 50-litre insulated concentrate tank for highly concentrated additives and a 325-litre tank for high volume applications and water.
Customers can also choose from two new advanced kernel processor options. The first is the John Deere Ultimate 250 kernel processor with larger 250mm rolls, temperature monitoring and foldable design for best serviceability.
Secondly, the John Deere XStream 305 kernel processor delivers a 56 per cent larger surface with 305mm rolls, electrical adjusting and the well-proven oil-mist greasing for best processing in all length of cuts.
