October 15, 2007 - John Deere introduces a new line of large, high-horsepower tractors – the 9030 Series. There are eight new tyre- and track-equipped models ranging in horsepower from 325 to 530 hp (242 to 395 kW). Also included are models specifically designed for construction job-site scraper applications. These tractors are engineered for big-time field operations and provide cleaner-burning engines and more power, productivity and operator comfort.

"These highly productive tractors feature the innovative John Deere PowerTech Plus™ engines," says Royce Bell, Tactical Segment Manager, John Deere Limited. "They are cleaner burning than previous models and are engineered specifically for high-horsepower field applications to help the operator get more done in less time."

The six-cylinder PowerTech Plus™ engines are designed with four valves per cylinder, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a variable geometry turbo (VGT). The result is a cleaner-burning engine delivering up to a 38 percent torque rise and a 10 percent power bulge to bring more power and performance to the ground while keeping emissions low.

"Engine efficiency is enhanced with a new cooling package, including the patented Vari-Cool™ fan drive and cooling system," explains Bell. "The mechanical-type fan runs only at the necessary speed to meet the cooling requirements of the tractor, increasing fuel efficiency and reducing power consumption."

Two transmission options are available on the new 9030 Series Tractors. A 24-speed manual transmission (24-forward and 6-reverse speeds) is available on the 9230, and 9330 Tractors as standard. The 18-speed PowerShift Transmission (18-forward and 6-reverse speeds) is available as an option on the 9230 and 9330 Tractors and is standard equipment on the 9430, 9530 and 9630 Tractors.

"Both transmissions are designed with enhanced shift logic to provide superior shift quality and accommodate increased power levels," says Bell. "These field-proven transmissions will give operators years of productive service."

Drive components are beefed up on the 9530 and 9630 Wheeled Tractors and a new, stronger double-reduction axle handles the increased horsepower requirements and higher torque loads in the field.

"The operator station and cab also have been improved for increased operator comfort," emphasizes Bell. "We've designed a quieter CommandView™ cab with lower sound levels and excellent visibility for all field activities. Even with a larger engine and cooling package, a new hood design with a relocated exhaust provides the forward visibility customers demand – a long-standing 9000 Series advantage."

ActiveSeat™ communicates with the tractor 200 times per second to remove as much as 90 percent of vertical inputs for a smoother ride. Colour-coded controls allow for easy operation of the tractors and all vehicles are GreenStar™ and AutoTrac™ Ready. (A special AutoTrac™ Ready promotion for 2007 will offer AutoTrac™ Ready precision guidance capability to all purchasers of 9030 Series Tractors at no additional charge [excluding scraper models].)

"We're extremely excited about the three new track tractors: the 9430T, 9530T and 9630T," says Bell. "They feature a new AirCushion™ walking I-beam suspension system that will give them a smoother ride in all field and transport conditions. This is something our customers have been asking for and now we've delivered."

A redesigned bogey undercarriage allows easier track alignment capability and provides increased track tensioning and recoil, wider front idlers and enhanced reliability. The air suspension system is equipped with its own on-board regulation system with controllers that automatically adjust to field or transport conditions. This all translates into longer days, less fatigue, higher working and transport speeds, and more overall productivity for longer days in the field.

"For customers on construction or farm sites who need big horsepower for low-cost land-levelling or scraping of terrain, the 9430, 9530 and 9630 Tractors can be ordered in a special scraper configuration," explains Bell. "These tractors are specifically engineered to handle the rigorous performance requirements for moving earth with a pull-pan, and are designed for this application."

These productive scraper tractors add more productivity to the work site because of their versatility. When a 9030 Series Tractor completes work on a job-site, it can be unhitched from the scraper and put to use in other pulling or even agricultural applications. Conventional earth moving equipment cannot duplicate this flexibility.

A key feature of all 9030 Series Tractors is a larger fuel tank, which gives the new tractors up to 33 percent greater on-board fuel capacity. Combined with the fuel-efficient engines, the 9030 Series Tractors will stay longer in the field and allow the operator to cover more acres in less time.

"The new 9030 Series Tractors offer more power and performance than the models they replace," concludes Bell. "With fuel-efficient PowerTech Plus™ engines, more horsepower for each model, new AirCushion™ suspension on the track models, more comfort in the cab and integrated technology for easy installation of AutoTrac™ and other precision guidance technology, we are confident that these are the most productive high-horsepower tractors ever built by John Deere."

For more information on John Deere products visit our Web site at www.JohnDeere.com.au or FREECALL 1800 800 981 in Australia or 0800 303 100 in New Zealand to contact your local John Deere dealer.

John Deere (Deere & Company - NYSE: DE) is the world's leading provider of advanced products and services for agriculture and forestry and a major provider of advanced products and services for construction, lawn and turf care, landscaping and irrigation. John Deere also provides financial services worldwide and manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe.