John Deere showcased one of its new self-propelled forage harvesters at last week’s AgriScot event.
The machinery giant has added three new models to its 8000 Series, which will be available next year.
It claims the new machines have advanced technology to reduce crop losses and boost performance, by giving farmers and contractors up to 15% more productivity.
The new 8800 model, which features an 854 horsepower Stage II 19-litre engine, was on show at AgriScot.
The other two models in the range are the 8300, with a 490hp Stage IV 13.5-litre engine, and the 8700 with a 761hp Stage II 19-litre engine.
“Because of their longitudinal engine layout, the new foragers feature an improved airflow through the entire machine, resulting in lower cooling requirements and more power for chopping. At the same time the lowered engine position provides an improved overall centre of gravity and enhanced visibility. This helps to improve stability when working on steep slopes or while travelling on the road at speeds of up to 40km per hour,” said John Deere.
It said headers available include the new 9 Series grass pick-ups and Kemper 300 or 400 Series row-independent rotary drum harvesting units.
The firm added: “These include the new 10-row 475 Plus rotary harvesting unit with 7.5m working width, which reduces stalk and ear losses and improves the ability to harvest laid maize. These units also reduce plugging in weedy conditions. All John Deere headers are automatically speed matched to the selected length of cut.”
Additional features also include a DuraDrum cutterhead with reverse knife sharpening and other technologies designed to improve forage processing and nutrient quality.