As technology continues to reshape the agricultural landscape, tractor manufacturers are pushing the envelope with advanced features designed to streamline operations for farmers. One of the latest innovations is automatic turning on the headland, a function that allows tractors to autonomously navigate turns at the edges of fields. While this feature promises to enhance efficiency and reduce fatigue for operators, the real question is whether tractor drivers are utilizing it in practice and what benefits it brings to their daily tasks.
To find out, Future Farming spoke with three Dutch tractor drivers who have integrated this technology into their work routines. Each driver shared insights on how automatic headland turning has transformed their operations, particularly in cultivation, potato planting, and drag-hose fertilization.
Binck Smit, who runs an arable and contract farming business, began exploring the automatic turning feature on his Case IH Rowtrac 380 CVX in the fall of 2023. Smit described the learning curve associated with the technology but emphasized its user-friendliness once mastered. “When the tractor is almost at the end of a field, the cultivator rises, and the speed decreases. Then the tractor automatically turns on the headland,” he explained. This seamless operation not only frees the driver’s hands but also enhances precision and efficiency. Smit noted significant time and fuel savings while working on larger plots, although he expressed skepticism about its practicality on smaller fields due to the lengthy setup process.
The efficiency of automatic turning is underscored by its ability to reduce overlap and improve accuracy. By calculating the optimal turning point, the system minimizes the risk of soil compaction, which is crucial in precision farming where every centimeter counts. Smit highlighted that this feature is particularly beneficial for extensive land management, streamlining tasks such as soil work, seeding, and hoeing.
Kevin Bakker, who operates an arable farm with his father, has also embraced the automatic turning function while planting potatoes. He utilizes four John Deere tractors equipped with this technology, which allows for precise alignment of the planter. “When I exit the headland, my tractor and planter are aligned perfectly,” Bakker stated, noting that the automatic raising and lowering of the planter leads to exceptionally neat rows. He appreciates the time savings and reduced soil compaction achieved through fewer maneuvers. However, Bakker pointed out that the initial setup can be time-consuming—averaging around 30 minutes—which may not be justifiable for smaller fields.
Jannick van Benthem, who operates a Valtra T214 with a drag-hose manure injector, began using automatic turning in February 2024. He emphasized the importance of the driver’s vigilance even with automation in place. While the system creates consistent tracks and minimizes overlap, van Benthem acknowledged that obstacles like trees or power poles still require the driver’s attention. He appreciates the convenience and efficiency the feature brings, allowing him to focus on controlling the manure pump and monitoring the drag hose.
Despite its clear advantages, the automatic turning function is not without limitations. The lengthy setup time can be a deterrent for smaller fields, and the presence of obstacles necessitates ongoing driver engagement. Nevertheless, for larger fields, the benefits of reduced fatigue, improved accuracy, and enhanced efficiency make automatic turning a compelling option for modern tractor drivers.
As agricultural practices continue to evolve, the integration of such technologies highlights a broader trend towards automation in farming. While the automatic turning feature showcases the potential for increased productivity, it also underscores the irreplaceable role of the farmer’s intuition and oversight in navigating the complexities of the field. As more drivers adopt this technology, the agricultural sector may witness a significant shift towards more precise and efficient farming practices.