New tech for Deere’s GP motor graders

John Deere has expanded the capabilities of its premium Grade Pro (GP) Series of motor graders with new technology, including two industry-exclusive features, Blade Stow and Auto-Gain for Cross Slope, for the North American market.

The new features, which also include Machine Damage Avoidance are said to deliver higher productivity, increased uptime and lower daily operating costs during operation.

Blade Stow, standard with machine presets or Automation Suite, adds a configurable setting to automatically stow the blade with the touch of a button. With Auto-Gain, the machine automatically adjusts the Cross Slope gain setting on the fly based on the operating conditions, eliminating the need for operators to make manual adjustments. Auto-Gain improves productivity for operators by ensuring accurate blade movement in ever-changing conditions.

The GP-Series motor graders can be further enhanced with optional Machine Damage Avoidance. When activated, the feature reduces the chance of downtime by preventing the moldboard from inadvertently contacting the tires, the cab steps or frame and the saddle from contacting the table.

Deere motor graders are available as either a G-Series machine, or GP-Series machine. The basic specifications are the same, but the features vary between each series, with the GP being the premium option.

 “Our customers challenge us to find new ways to incorporate smart technologies into Deere products. They are looking for solutions to help make equipment easier to run and more efficient,” said Luke Kurth, product marketing manager, motor graders.

“These new features allow new operators to come up to speed more quickly, and all operators can take full advantage of the productivity of Deere graders. We are committed to delivering a differentiated customer experience by bringing innovation to the always-evolving construction industry.”

SmartGrade motor grader models received additional enhancements to the industry’s first mastless motor grader for greater flexibility and productivity, including a larger file-processing capability, up to 20% faster file transfers and increased real-time kinematic (RTK) radio stability. SmartGrade machines are now compatible with network RTK and local positioning system (LPS) technology.