John Deere is adding three new models to the top end of the 8R and 8RX ranges with rated outputs of 440hp, 490hp and 540hp.

Designed for heavy draft applications and long working days on large European farms, the 8R/RX 440, 8R/RX 490 and 8R/RX 540, sit above the existing models which peak with the 8R/RX/RT 410 (410hp/443hp).

Maximum power of the 8R/RX 440, 8R/RX 490 and 8R/RX 540 is 524hp, 579hp and 634hp, respectively. The 8R/8RX 540 is claimed as the world’s most powerful standard tractor.

One big change concerns the engine, with grunt coming from a JD14 (13.6-litre) block (9.0-litre PowerTech in the 8R/RX 410). The more powerful engine provides up to 2,695Nm maximum torque and a constant power range from 1,450 to 1,900rpm.

Tyre diameters are up to 2.30m (rear) and 1.85m (front). Both the single- and dual-wheel configurations, including dual front tyres up to 710mm wide, can be equipped with the company’s single-line Central Tyre Inflation System. This automatically adjusts tyre pressures at any speed and temperature.

Peak Power Intelligent Power Management provides an additional 40hp across the main engine speed range down to 1,600rpm in demanding applications with high-load PTO and electrically or hydraulically driven implements.

The standard eAutoPowr transmission uses an electro-mechanical split-path layout that replaces hydrostatic components with maintenance-free electric motor generators.

Updated four-track system

The redesigned undercarriages and low-tension Soucy belts in the updated four-track system in the three new 8RX models is designed to reduce belt stress and extend operating life. Depending on configuration, the track system provides a contact area of up to 4.87m² and ground pressures as low as 0.4kg/cm².

The new tractors are said to deliver articulated-level pulling power with standard-tractor versatility. It depends on the market, but transport speeds are 40, 50 (1,200rpm) or 60kph (1,440rpm).

The new heavy-duty Independent Link Suspension (HD ILS) front axle ensures efficient power transfer and a turning radius of around 7m, supporting smaller headlands and precise path-to-path operation. The system provides automatic as well as manually adjustable load-based suspension adaptation for a more comfortable and personalised cab experience.

The new ILS Roll Control automatically adjusts front axle suspension stiffness during cornering and higher transport speeds, reducing leaning to curves and minimizing forward dip under heavy braking.

Fuel tank capacities of 936 litres (8R) and up to 1,123 litres (8RX) allow operating times of up to 14 hours at 85% load, eliminating refill stops in 12-hour shifts.

Reactive Command Steering is said to provide precise, car-like handling with a self-centring steering wheel to handle intersections smoothly and for convenient line-holding. The new function comes additionally with Variable Ratio Steering, reducing steering wheel turns at higher speeds, while adjustable return-to-centre force and steering resistance allow the system to be tailored to operator preference, particularly during repeated headland manoeuvres.

In the cab

The CommandView 4 cab is equipped with a redesigned CommandARM with integrated Convenience Display, allowing operators to recall seat settings and personalize the cab environment by controlling, for instance, radio, A/C, or phone. The cab also provides inductive phone charging, 330° front wiper, right-hand side door wiper, push button-start with pin code protection and soft closing door.

The CommandView 4 Plus cab on the three new 8RX models offers 15% more legroom and a 20% wider panoramic field of view in comparison to the 8R standard series cab.

The Premium and Ultimate seats now include on-screen adjustments with electronic independent forwards/backwards and up/down, CommandARM

positioning and full-width cushion length control. A top-mounted seatback vent in the Ultimate seat circulates cab air, delivering extra airflow around the operator for a cooler, more comfortable ride.

The new CommandARM features two new joystick options: the CommandX Plus for basic operation, or the advanced CommandX Pro for expert-level control. Both provide enhanced configurability, including new phone and infotainment control, new G5Plus display navigation, and extended precision ag functionalities.

The new models are equipped with a StarFire 7500 receiver, a G5Plus CommandCenter display and JDLink connectivity. AutoPath Rows and Boundaries create guidance plans for the entire field and all seasonal operations, while AutoTrac Turn Automation delivers precise turns in any field shape. Passive Implement Guidance ensures centimetre-level accuracy by reducing implement drift, and AutoTrac Implement Guidance In Reverse enables precise manoeuvring of wide implements, regardless of operator experience.

Hydraulic flow is up to 418lit/min, and rear lift capacity is up to 10.8 tonnes (front up to 4.8t). With 1000, 1000E, and 1300 rear PTO speeds, the maximum PTO power of up to 548hp is also available for stationary applications.

“Thanks to its non-position-indicating digital controls, the 8R/RX high horsepower tractors are inherently prepared to retrofit future autonomy components.” explained Marcus Luchmann, go-to-market manager for 150hp+ tractors in Europe & CIS.

Providing up to 300kW of brake power, the engine brake option automatically responds whenever actual speed differs from pre-selected speed, delivering smooth deceleration with one pedal ease, while protecting the main brake for longer life. Three selectable operating modes allow operators to tailor engine and transmission performance to specific tasks:

• ECO: Prioritizes fuel efficiency and comfort with reduced engine speeds, ideal for transport or light-duty work.

• STANDARD: Balances power, efficiency, and responsiveness for most field operations.

• MAX: Unlocks full engine potential and fastest response for heavy draft applications and dynamic load changes

“The new additions broaden the capability of the 8 series to support large farms focused on continuous operational optimization – achieving higher productivity with fewer, more reliable machines while maintaining the flexibility of a standard tractor,” adds Mr Luchmann. “They also address the needs of expanding family farms that intend to manage more hectares with the same workforce.”

Additional innovations are planned to be launched throughout 2026, and further features of the 8 series high-horsepower tractors will soon to be integrated into the current 8R/RX/RT models.

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