The EU legislation requires all off road vehicles (e.g. tractors, combines, SPFH, etc.) to comply with massively reduced emission standards.

The Stage III B legislation became effective 01 January 2011 for all vehicles above 130 kW (174 hp)up to 559 kW(779 hp). The next implementation step effective 01 January 2012 covers vehicles with 75 – 129 kW (100 – 174 hp).

Any new machine that is built as of 1 January 2011, has to comply with the new regulation.

Based on the positive experience with current PowerTech engines, John Deere has chosen the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system path. It requires few additional components to the already field proven technology. It does not require a second fluid and is less complex to handle. It also sustains excellent fuel economy.

Following these Stage III B regulations the Stage IV regulations will kick in starting with the above 130 kW (174 hp) engines 01 January 2014.