At the Commodity Classic in San Antonio, Texas, John Deere presented an innovative prototype for a high-power tractor that operates on E98, a nearly pure ethanol fuel. This development is not just a lab experiment or a symbolic nod to the corn industry; it carries a strong strategic message indicating that agricultural fuel can come from the fields themselves. The prototype tractor is comparable to an 8R model with around 350 horsepower and has undergone real-field testing in the Midwest, showcasing its practical application.

The tractor was operated by Jim Barrick, a farmer from Arlington, Iowa, near John Deere's research base. During these tests, the tractor demonstrated its capability to tow 30,000-liter carts and perform essential cultivation tasks, which are critical for high-power tractors. The tractor's potential power and torque are said to match that of heavy diesel engines, but with a significant advantage: it does not require complex exhaust treatment systems, which are mandatory in the USA to reduce nitrous oxide emissions.

This development could represent a major shift in agricultural fuel sourcing, promising farmers the power they need while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional diesel use. As the agricultural sector seeks sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, the success of John Deere's ethanol-powered tractor could catalyze further innovations and inspire a broader movement toward renewable energy in farming practices.