John Deere Unveils New 225- To 345-HP 8R Series Tractor Lineup
LENEXA, Kansas — John Deere bolsters its lineup of high-powered row-crop tractors with the introduction of its 8R Series Tractors.
As producers take on more acres and grow their farm operations, they and their employees are spending more time in the tractor cabs working. New 8R Series Tractors help operators work more comfortably and productively. The lineup includes six wheeled models that range from 225 to 345 engine horsepower and three track models that range from 295 to 345 engine horsepower.
"We've taken the most fuel-efficient row-crop tractor ever produced, at a time when its reliability is better than ever, and refined it by increasing horsepower output, adding our most spacious, most comfortable, and most productive cab ever. We've also dramatically upgraded the ride comfort and capabilities of our track models. These tractors offer customers low operating costs and maximum uptime with ultimate comfort and productivity," says Chad Hogan, John Deere product line marketing manager.
One of the hallmarks of an 8R Series Tractor is its next-generation John Deere CommandView™II Cab. Inside, operators will discover a roomy work environment that's equipped with integrated, easy-to-use monitors and controls. Visibility is enhanced in all directions.
"Available best-in-class lighting, plus best-in-class cab and controls, help this tractor stand out from the competition," says Hogan.
The 8RT Series Track Tractors are new from the ground up. Each 8RT Tractor is equipped with John Deere's AirCushion™ Suspension System that was first made available on the company's larger 9030T Series Track Tractors.
"Our exclusive AirCushion suspension provides unsurpassed operator comfort and improved vehicle traction that puts more power to the ground. The power, performance, and comfort of our new 8RT Tractors are second to none," explains Hogan.
And for the first time ever, John Deere makes its Infinitely Variable Transmission (IVT™) available on 8RT Series Track Tractors. It's standard on the 8345RT and optional on all other models. With an IVT, operators can use a single lever to smoothly shift from 0 to 24 mph, or any speed in between.
"With our IVT, customers first dial in a specific ground speed. Then, the engine and transmission work together to keep the tractor operating at that speed — instantly responding to changes in load conditions. This also decreases fuel consumption and keeps operating costs low," says Hogan.
Maximum transport speed has been increased up to 24 mph on the track models. In addition, fuel capacity on the 8RT Series has been expanded to 200 gallons — a 54 percent increase compared to its predecessor. An available Category 4N/3 rear hitch provides these track tractors with up to 18,300 pounds of hitch-lift capacity. Hydraulic flow is now rated at 60 gpm.
"Our track tractor customers can now select any track spacing between 72 and 160 inches wide by using the field-installed kit and can make adjustments without de-tensioning the tracks," says Hogan.
All 8R and 8RT models are powered with the proven 9.0L John Deere PowerTech™ Plus engine that meets current Tier III Emission Standards.
The 8R Series Tractors also use the new John Deere name and numbering system. The first position is a number and represents its size. The second, third, and fourth positions denote its relative engine horsepower according to 97/68/EC Standards. The fifth position is a letter and indicates its capability and/or price level within its family. Letters at the beginning of the alphabet indicate a tractor model has lower levels of capabilities when compared to other models in its family. Letters higher in the alphabet specify a tractor with more advanced capabilities. Some tractors will also have a sixth position to designate a specific configuration such as a high-crop or narrow-profile tractor or to show that it has tracks.
John Deere 8R Series Tractors are available at your local John Deere dealer. The 8225R has a base list price starting at $165,929 (USD). The 8295RT has a base list price starting at $240,954 (USD).
For more details you can visit with your local John Deere dealer, or go online and visit the company's Web site at www.JohnDeere.com.
John Deere (Deere & Company — NYSE: DE) is a world leader in providing advanced products and services for agriculture, forestry, construction, lawn and turf care, landscaping and irrigation. John Deere also provides financial services worldwide and manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe.
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