2024 Farm Progress Show Review

The Farm Progress Show, held in Boone, Iowa, from Aug. 27 to 29, was once again a landmark event in the agriculture industry. Billed as the nation’s largest outdoor ag show, this year’s event lived up to the hype, offering a huge platform for growers, producers and agribusinesses to explore cutting-edge innovations and practices.

With representation from over 30 countries, the Farm Progress Show serves as a global hub for agricultural advancements. 

Held at the end of August, the Farm Progress Show often coincides with extreme heat conditions, but that has never seemed to deter farmers from attending. This year, farmers from around the world once again showed up in masses to see the latest agricultural products and technologies firsthand. And despite the expected heat, this year’s show certainly lived up to expectations.

“There were many other new innovations to help make farming easier for all types of farmers from small acreages to the largest grain and livestock producers. There is always something for everyone,” Catalyst Communications Network’s Sales Specialist Chet Frahm said.

Here are just some of the highlights of what attendees enjoyed seeing at the 2024 show.

KUBOTA RTV-X

One of our highlights from the show was the Kubota RTV-X, which Farmers Hot Line’s Sales Manager Carol Harrison actually had the pleasure to test drive.

“The Kubota RTV-X series impresses in nearly every aspect. This utility vehicle is well-suited for both work and play. Whether you are using it on a farm or simply for off-road exploration, the RTV-X delivers a reliable, comfortable and capable driving experience. After the test drive, it’s clear that Kubota continues to set a high standard in the utility vehicle market.” Harrison said.

Whether you’re handling small tasks or tackling big jobs, this diesel utility vehicle was created to excel in nearly every scenario — from farm chores and snow clearing to transporting gear or a trophy deer.

NASCAR star Ross Chastain played a key role in promoting the RTV-X. On Wednesday, he spent a good amount of time at the Kubota booth, where he met fans, signed autographs and posed for photos with fans. 

“I think for a lot of farmers, this machine — as much as it is for work — it’s for therapy as well. From the largest farms to the smallest hobby farms, this machine can provide a lot of avenues for people to get away from the crazy world out there and just work the land,” NASCAR star Ross Chastain told a small group of media members at the show. 

The RTV-X builds on Kubota’s legacy with enhanced features like a redesigned exterior, HDMP tires and the ProKonvert cargo bed. 

BASF

BASF was excited to highlight all of their new technology, especially their new 2025 Xitavo soybean seed varieties. The new lineup aims to provide farmers with improved genetics that enhance yield and reduce risks. 

The varieties are designed to tackle climate challenges and resist diseases. Notable seeds include XO 2625E, which offers resistance to white mold and iron deficiency chlorosis and XO 3105E, known for 

its superior yield performance at 102.7% of the test average, along with strong resistance to iron deficiency chlorosis, phytophthora and sudden death syndrome.

“It was a great show for us. It’s the time of year when people are here to kick tires and look at paint — a lot of guys are interested in equipment — but it’s been a good show, and we love the opportunity to talk to customers,” Mark Storr, BASF technical service representative, told Farmers Hot Line.

NEW HOLLAND 

New Holland Agriculture debuted its new CR10 combine. The new machine joins the previously launched CR11 to provide farmers with the next generation of harvesting technology in a class 9 combine. 

The CR10 is said to bring efficiency to harvest season, offering 635 horsepower in the 12.9-liter FPT Cursor 13 engine, a 455-bushel grain tank and an unload rate of 4.5 bushels per second. The drivetrain features a two-speed hydrostatic transmission.

With its extended 24-inch twin rotors and Dynamic Feed Roll system, the combine optimizes threshing and separation performance. The CR10 guarantees high throughput with minimal blockage — even in areas with heavy weed pressure and uneven crop maturity.

The optional IntelliSpread feature uses radar to sense and automatically adjust to achieve full-width and uniform residue spreading.

The CR10 will be available to growers with a limited rollout in 2025.

JOHN DEERE

John Deere showcased its new XUV 845 (gas) and XUV 875 (diesel) utility vehicles at the Farm Progress Show, marking their first public appearance.

One of the key improvements is a reduction in noise levels — the new XUVs are 31% quieter thanks to an updated exhaust system. The air intake system has also been redesigned, raising the intake by 12 inches to better protect the engine from debris, water and mud. Additionally, the new CVT air intake and exhaust system ensures cleaner air flow.

Both the XUV 845 and XUV 875 HVAC models come with factory-installed GreenStar Ready options that allow for easy integration of a StarFire receiver and universal display. The inclusion of a JDLink modem facilitates seamless integration with the John Deere Operations Center, aiding in tasks like boundary and field mapping.

CASE

Case IH introduced the new AF9 and AF10 combines, expanding their lineup which already includes the AF11. Designed from scratch based on feedback from around 100 farmers, these combines aim to address key concerns such as capacity and productivity.

The AF9 delivers 634 horsepower while the AF10 offers 775 horsepower, both supported by a 40% longer AFXL rotor compared to the previous 260 series. These updates ensure efficient crop flow and reduced strain on the machines.

The AF9 and AF10 also introduce a new feature that adjusts residue spreading width in real-time based on wind conditions, improving uniformity. They come with advanced precision technologies, including dual Pro 1200 displays and Harvest Command automation.

AGCO

AGCO brands unveiled new products, including the Fendt 600 Vario tractors, Massey Ferguson 9S Series tractors and Gleaner T Series combines.

The Fendt 600 Vario Series, offering models from 614 Vario to 620 Vario with 140 to 240 horsepower, features VarioDrive continuously variable transmission and VarioGrip tire pressure control. These innovations reduce slippage and optimize ground pressure. Starting at around $280,000, these tractors will be available from dealers in January.

The Massey Ferguson 9S Series includes five models known for improved fluid efficiency and lower ownership costs. They come with a 90 GPM ECO pump, six rear electric spool valves and MF AutoTurn technology, ranging from 310 to 425 max horsepower

The Gleaner T Series combines, including T61, T71 and T81 models are lighter than competitors, reducing fuel use and soil compaction. They feature the Dura Drive ground drive system and a two-speed transmission. 

“Each year, we at Farmers Hot Line eagerly anticipate exhibiting at the Farm Progress Show. It’s an incredible opportunity to reconnect with old friends and forge new relationships,” Harrison said. “The show never fails to bring together the best in the agricultural community and we’re proud to be a part of it.” 

The entire Catalyst Communications Network crew had a blast — despite the heat — at the 2024 Farm Progress show! We can’t wait to see everyone again next year when the show takes place in Decatur, Illinois, from Aug. 26-28.

“We look forward to continuing this tradition and engaging with the amazing individuals who make this industry so special,” Harrison concluded.