John Deere introduces a new leap forward in tractor market
One of the most iconic names in agriculture, John Deere has once again innovated with the introduction of their new 8RX tractor, the industry’s first fixed-frame four-track offering.
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What is a John Deere RX8?
The 8RX forms part of the new 8 Family tractor line-up. This line-up includes 8R wheel tractors, 8RT two-track tractors and the industry's first fixed-frame four-track tractors, the all-new 8RX. These new tractors come standard equipped with the latest precision technology and allow customers to choose the machine configuration, options and horsepower to best fit their operation.
The 8RX is a fully engineered John Deere four-track solution, not a bolt-on aftermarket product with one of the highlights being that the 8RX Tractors offer all the benefits of tracks and provide a driving experience more like a wheel tractor.
The line-up
The 8RX family includes four models – the 8RX 310, 8RX 340, 8RX 370, and 8RX 410. This unique configuration on these new models has been designed to have the turning characteristics of wheeled tractors and the pulling performance of tracks, thanks to more surface area and less ground pressure. A key component is the John Deere 1700 pivoting beam axle, specifically designed for a four-track tractor to provide the necessary strength and enable adjustability of tread spacing’s to fit grower needs.
Innovative features
These tractors represent the next leap forward in tractor innovation and have everything customers like about the current 8R wheel tractors with the addition of four independent tracks and a new fully suspended cab that makes them more comfortable to operate. This new machine delivers unmatched flotation, traction and ride quality.
John Deere offers a wide range of track and axle configurations for 8RX Tractors. Multiple tread-spacing options are available and include 193-, 203.2-, 223.5-, or 304.8-cm wide front axles. Three belt widths are available and include 45.7- and 60.9-cm wide front belts, 45.7-, 60.9- and 76.2-cm wide rear belts.
The technology
Every 8 Family Tractor also leaves the factory fully integrated, fully capable and fully supported with the latest technology. Each new 8R, 8RT and 8RX Tractor comes standard equipped with an integrated Gen 4 4600 CommandCenter™ display, StarFire™ 6000 integrated receiver and AutoTrac™ activation. Additional premium or automation activations are available so customers can upgrade and choose the level of accuracy they prefer. A full suite of John Deere technology is included for the seamless integration of automation, documentation and connectivity through the John Deere Operations Center.
Every tractor in the 8 Family also received an all-new, larger cab, the largest John Deere has ever offered. With an extra two inches of headroom and a 24 percent wider entry path it's easier to enter and egress. An automotive-inspired interior surrounds the operator and provides wide-open access to a new control layout. Customers can choose from three Comfort and Convenience cab packages that include Select, Premium or Ultimate.
Issues facing the industry
One of the biggest issues however facing manufacturers and customers in South Africa is indeed the poor harvests on the back of drought and biosecurity issues experienced in 2019, amongst other aspects. The uncertainties of land expropriation without compensation has also had a negative effect of farmer confidence to invest, which ultimately saw a 14% y/y decline in tractor sales in our local market with a total of just 333 units sold. This is the lowest monthly sales data that has been recorded over the past six years.