John Deere unveils new F8 and F9 Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters for New Zealand farmers
John Deere is raising the bar for forage harvesting in New Zealand with the launch of its new F8 and F9 Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters.
John Deere’s new F8 and F9 Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters offer a significantly enhanced driving experience, cutting-edge automation and precision farming technology.
According to Erin Wagstaff, John Deere Australia and New Zealand Marketing Manager for Small Ag and Turf, operators will immediately notice the difference behind the wheel of the new F8 and F9 forage harvesters, which are due to be available for order later this year.
“The new wider cabins have been designed with the operator in mind,” said Ms Wagstaff. “They feature comfortable adjustable seats, an optional electric closing door to ensure a perfect seal and clever storage solutions in the armrests and behind the seats. There are even dedicated holders for drinks, smartphones, keys and larger items.”
Recognising the increasing reliance on smartphones in both work and personal settings, John Deere has also introduced seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The premium infotainment system offers Bluetooth connectivity, radio, streaming and hands-free calling, all with crystal-clear sound quality. Operators will benefit from multiple conveniently placed charging options, including 12V and USB ports.
Further enhancing comfort, the F8 and F9 series come standard with ActiveSeat, which swivels 16° in both directions. The optional ActiveSeat II adds electric controls, heating and cooling functions, massage and active suspension technology capable of absorbing up to 90% of vertical movements. Slim cab pillars and sweeping windows provide panoramic visibility from the header to the 230°-rotating spout, while a redesigned rear axle steering system enables a tight six-metre turning radius, making for faster and easier headland turns.
Machine control has also taken a leap forward. The forage harvesters are designed around the driver, with intuitive controls for machine and harvesting settings. Different driver profiles can be stored to minimise set-up time, and the new ergonomic CommandPRO joystick includes up to 11 customisable buttons. These can be easily configured via the G5 or G5Plus CommandCenter touchscreen display, which is context-sensitive and features smart shortcuts for simpler navigation. The screen itself is 35% larger and 75% faster than previous models, offering high-definition 1080p resolution. Operators can add an optional G5Plus Extended Monitor to double the screen area, allowing more functions to be monitored and adjusted at once. Key operating data is also shown in infographic form on the corner post display, ensuring everything is easy to see at a glance.
Under the bonnet, proven power units drive performance across the range. All six F8 models are powered by the JD14X engine, already tested in the John Deere X9 combines and 9RX tractors. This powerplant meets European Stage V emission standards and delivers high performance while supporting sustainability. The F8 series ranges from 313 kW (419 HP) in the F8 100 to 475 kW (636 HP) in the new top model F8 600.
In the larger F9 series, from the F9 500 to the F9 700, John Deere’s JD18X engine produces between 515 kW (690 HP) and 603 kW (809 HP). This engine offers excellent fuel efficiency through features such as high-pressure common-rail fuel injection, serial turbochargers with cooled exhaust gas recirculation and no requirement for diesel exhaust fluid. For operators who require extreme power, the F9 900 and 1000 models are fitted with the 24.2L V12 Liebherr engine, delivering up to 750 kW (1006 HP).
Across the entire F8 and F9 range, John Deere's HarvestMotion technology ensures constant power delivery at reduced engine speeds, which improves fuel efficiency while making the machine more drivable under varying load conditions.
Technology integration has also reached a new level. All F8 and F9 models come with a comprehensive suite of automation and John Deere Precision Ag Technology. Ground Speed Automation ensures that the machine always operates at maximum productivity and optimal efficiency, regardless of conditions and helps reduce operator workload. Active Fill Control 3.0, using stereo cameras, automatically adjusts the spout rotation and flap position to track transport vehicles and optimise crop placement.
ProTouch Harvest, another standout feature provides single-click headland automation for crops such as maize, grass or whole crop silage. It automates header lift, spout control, AutoTrac, Active Fill Control and Ground Speed Automation to make headland turns smoother and quicker. When switching from road to field mode, ProTouch can handle up to nine functions at once, including activating beacon lights, adjusting four-wheel drive, managing engine speed settings and repositioning the spout.
Silage quality has also been refined. The DuraDrum cutterhead delivers flexible and reliable performance across a variety of harvesting requirements. A newly developed inoculant dosing system, IDS 2.0, integrates with the HarvestLab sensor to optimise silage quality. It features a 50-litre insulated concentrate tank for high-strength additives and a 325-litre tank for high-volume or water applications.
Two new kernel processor options further enhance silage outcomes. The John Deere Ultimate 250™ kernel processor features 250mm rolls, temperature monitoring and a foldable design for easy servicing. The more advanced John Deere XStream 305 processor offers a 56% larger surface area with 305mm rolls, electric adjustment and the proven oil-mist greasing system to ensure consistent processing across all cut lengths.
With this new generation of forage harvesters, John Deere has focused on improving every aspect of the harvesting experience - from engine and cutterhead performance to operator comfort and automation. The launch of the F8 and F9 series represents a significant upgrade for New Zealand farmers seeking maximum efficiency, advanced technology and first-class forage quality.