LENEXA, KS, USA (July 14, 2006) - John Deere recently tested an 8430 Tractor, rated at 250 PTO hp (186 kW), at the Nebraska Tractor Test Lab in Lincoln, Neb. USA to independently verify fuel efficiency, power, and performance. Record-setting results were returned for fuel efficiency on the 8430 Tractor with Automatic PowerShift Transmission (PST) for power produced to fuel consumed of any row crop tractor ever tested.

"These are exceptional results," says Cory Reed, Manager Factory Marketing, John Deere Waterloo Works. "The new 8430 Tractor, as tested, delivered an 8.8 percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the very competitive and similar horsepower 8520 Tractor it replaced. The improvements made to the 8430 Tractor make it the most fuel efficient row crop tractor ever tested in the Nebraska Test Lab."

The tractor was equipped with an Automatic PowerShift transmission and tested at 100 percent PTO load at rated engine speed. The record result of 18.65 Hp.-hr./Gallon (228 gm/kW.hr) was achieved. Previously, the 8520 Tractor with the same equipment had test results of 17.13 Hp.-hr./Gallon. This 8.8 percent improvement is now the benchmark for tractor fuel efficiency performance in a row crop tractor.

"These record-setting results were attained because of the integrated technology and design that went into these new tractors," explains Reed. "Starting with the PowerTech Plus™ 9.0L engine with Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT), cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), and the more powerful, cleaner-burning design; we saw improved fuel consumption results just with the engine. When we added a new Vari-Cool™ system with precise control for fan speed and air flow and the Automatic PowerShift with its excellent ability to transfer power, the total integrated package worked together for even more fuel efficiency."

The fuel consumption measurement, Hp.-hr./Gallon, is the standard used for making a comparison of efficiency between all agricultural tractor models. Measured directly, it means that burning one gallon of fuel in the tractor at full load and at rated engine speed produces a certain amount of horsepower for an hour. A higher number means that tractor systems are doing a better job of effectively using fuel burned and creating usable power.

"We expect fuel efficiency improvements on our complete line of 8030 Series tractors," says Reed. "The official Nebraska Tractor Test Lab testing continues on the other 8030 Series models. We anticipate those results to be published later this year."

For more information on the Nebraska Tractor Test Lab visit their Web site at http://tractortestlab.unl.edu. The complete results for tests completed on the 8430 Tractors can be viewed here in August 2006. Additionally, more information about the 8430 Tractor and the other 8030 Series Tractors can bee seen by visiting our Web site at www.deere.com.au or contact your local John Deere dealer.