John Deere has launched its new Starfire 7000 receiver, promising better satellite network coverage, faster pull-in times, and the option of pairing it with a new correction signal – Starfire mobile RTK.

Like the previous models, the new receiver comes with Deere’s free-to-access SF1 signal as standard, which picks up data from Galileo, Beidou, GPS and Glonass satellites.

This, the company says, provides a stronger signal strength than before and less interference from trees, pylons and buildings.

See also: How to build your own tractor autosteer system for £700

The mobile RTK upgrade can be activated by purchasing a renewable licence (no word yet on how much that will cost), delivering a repeatable accuracy of +/-2.5cm without having to invest in extra hardware.

Instead, it works using cellular technology, either via an attachable 4G modem with twin antennas or by running it through the built-in JDLink system.

Field boundaries recorded using RTK should remain accurate for at least five years.

New machines can have the receiver integrated into the cab roof to improve security. The first to have this as an option will be the 2023 X-series combines.

Traditional universal Starfire 7000 domes will be available next winter.

It will be possible to switch these between new and old machines, and they can be set up with an access code to discourage thieves from pinching them. A mechanical locking kit is also available.

The new 7000-series design shouldn’t suffer from the signal problems that plagued farmers with Starfire 3000 and early-generation 6000 receivers last year.

Deere blamed the issues on new 4G mobile phone network frequencies that were similar to the Starfire radio correction signal and therefore caused interference. 

eAutoPowr option for Deere 8R 410

John Deere and Belgian firm Joskin have completed their joint development of an electric drivetrain, which has culminated in the launch of a stepless transmission that can handle outputs north of 400hp and power the wheels of a trailed tanker.

The eAutoPowr system, first unveiled at Agritechnica in 2019, is now an option on Deere’s flagship 8R 410 in all its forms – wheeled 8R, twin-track 8RT and four-track 8RX.

The system works in similar fashion to the regular AutoPowr CVT, albeit with the transmission’s hydraulic components replaced with electric alternatives, including two brushless electric motors.

This, says Deere, simplifies the design, keeps servicing and running costs low, and makes it easier to identify faults remotely.

© John Deere

The drivetrain is able to provide up to 100kW via a 480V, three-phase alternating current to power the axles on a Joskin tanker.

This means the weight of the tanker can be exploited to increase traction and reduce wheel slip.

In theory, it should be less complicated than a mechanically driven arrangement and allows the tractor to control the speed of the tanker’s wheels via an Isobus connection.

Operators will be able to set a slip limit that automatically engages the electric drive when the threshold is exceeded.

According to Deere, the system also reduces noise in the cab and offers improved tractor acceleration.

The eAutoPowr costs £19,506 more than the standard e23 transmission, while electric power output for the tanker axles adds another £18,525.