John Deere details automation updates for 2027 combines

John Deere, Moline, Illinois, announced updates to its model year 2027 X9 and S7 combines and front-end equipment, with a focus on expanding automation capabilities and improving harvesting efficiency across a wider range of crops and field conditions.

The updates build on existing automation tools designed to reduce operator input while maintaining grain quality and productivity. According to the company, the enhancements aim to help producers manage tight harvest windows and support less experienced operators in the field.

Harvest Settings Automation, which automatically adjusts key combine settings such as concave clearance, fan speed and sieve settings, will expand to include additional crops. Previously available for corn, soybeans, wheat, barley, canola and rice, the system will add lentils, peas, rye, triticale, oats and sunflowers for model year 2027. The system uses crop type, geolocation and operator-defined limits for grain loss and quality to adjust settings during operation.

Predictive Ground Speed Automation, introduced in model year 2025, also received updates. The system uses satellite data, terrain maps and cab-mounted cameras to adjust combine speed based on crop conditions and field features. For 2027, a new Green Crop Detection feature is intended to identify green plant material within mature crops and adjust ground speed accordingly.

The updated system also allows operators to set a crop throughput target, linking ground speed adjustments with grain quality metrics. Deere said the integration of Harvest Settings Automation and Predictive Ground Speed Automation allows the systems to respond to one another rather than operate independently.

The company is also offering upgrade kits for certain machines equipped with earlier technology packages, allowing operators to add higher-level automation features without replacing equipment.

Additional updates for model year 2027 include factory-ready installation points for HarvestLab systems on X9 combines, optional JDLink Boost satellite connectivity for areas with limited cellular service and a power folding ladder option for X9 and S7 models.

On the X9 combine, Deere introduced a new 35-foot unloading auger to provide additional clearance for wider headers, along with an optional 550-bushel grain tank.

The company also announced updates to its front-end equipment lineup, including a 27-row folding corn head with 20-inch spacing. Automation features on corn heads will allow automatic adjustment of deck plate spacing and backshaft speed.

For more information, see a dealer or visit www.deere.com.