Why the John Deere 7R 350 is TOTY
We recently shared the winners of the converted Tractor of the Year award. This prestigious competition has run since 1998 and includes an international jury composed of 26 editorial projects including all kinds of media such as paper magazines, web sites, agricultural TV shows, social networks, and so on. This year saw John Deere's 7R 350 AutoPowr take the top prize. Here are four things that you need to know about the 2022 TOTY winner.
Technology
One of the main reasons why this tractor won was due to the technology on offer. One of the stand out features is the new updated CommandARM system. This system enables the driver to best utilize the unique driving strategy which has been designed to deliver impressive performance in combination with operator comfort, making the daily work much easier and efficient. The driving strategy includes three easily adjustable travel speeds, two engine speeds and three acceleration response settings. Drivers can also command various speed settings simply by one push or pull of the joystick.
Comfort
The TOTY jury also noted that the John Deere offered impressive levels of driver comfort as well as convenient features. The driver seat was one key element which added to the comfort levels. The seat has been designed to improve ride quality and help reduce operator fatigue. The leather seat features heat and ventilation functions to keep the operator at a comfortable temperature. It also features adjustable bolsters and massage functionality. Furthermore, it makes use of electronic controls so that the operator can adjust to their preference. Pneumatic lumbar adjustment also features. The seat can be configured with air seat suspension, ActiveSeat II suspension or air seat plus cab suspension. There is also an operator presence switch that warns if the operator is out of the seat while operating key functions.
Convenience features
When it comes to storage, the John Deere 7R 350 has been fitted with ample storage which adds to the cabin practicality. Storage compartments have been fitted underneath the instructor seat as well as on the left-hand ceiling. There is also a refrigerator which is located on the left side behind the instructor seat and beverage holders sized to accommodate various containers.
There are also various 12V outlets as well as four USB ports and a touchscreen radio with smartphone interface, AM/FM, aux and Bluetooth with voice control inputs. The premium sound system also features a total of six speakers and one subwoofer.
Performance
Powering the award winning tractor is the brands tried and tested 9-litre, six-cylinder John Deere developed engine. Power is sent through an Autopowr IVT stepless gearbox, the only transmission available on the 7R 350. Engineers have been able to increase power from this motor which now sits at around 350Hp (260kW), however the inclusion of Intelligent Power Management pushes that to 388hp (290kW) when needed.
