John Deere introduced new GreenStar universal AutoTrac vehicle kit

Since its introduction in 2002, the GreenStar AutoTrac assisted-steering system has been adopted by producers to bring more efficiency to their machines and field operations. AutoTrac and GreenStar guidance systems bring more accuracy, reduce passes in the field, and reduce operator fatigue when operating John Deere tractors, combines, and sprayers.

"Now we're developing a Universal AutoTrac Vehicle Kit that can be used on older model John Deere equipment," says Gordon Culp, marketing manager, John Deere Ag Management Solutions. "In late 2005, this kit will be available for John Deere row crop tractors, four-wheel-drive tractors, and potentially other brands of equipment. This technology is moving very quickly and operators will be able to bring more productivity to all vehicles in their equipment fleet."

The expanded platform of Universal AutoTrac will use the three GreenStar common components (GreenStar display, mobile processor, and StarFire™ iTC receiver), AutoTrac KeyCard, and a universal vehicle kit for each approved machine. Integrated Terrain Compensation comes standard on every StarFire iTC for operation in sloping or hilly terrain. Many customers already own some of the GreenStar components and can adapt them to the new Universal AutoTrac when it is available.

"A customer who makes an investment in AutoTrac today, will be able to use the GreenStar components and the AutoTrac KeyCard for future approved vehicles," explains Culp. "This is truly the guidance system that our customers can grow with. We are committed to providing accurate, dependable systems that can be used on a complete range of vehicles!"