A static display of new machines you haven’t ever seen, or want to get closer to, makes an outdoor farm show special. Roll in the field demonstrations where you can see machines at work, and that’s a bonus. But what about the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a new machine and test it yourself?

For 2022, the Farm Progress Show Ride ’n’ Drive area, located on the east side of the showgrounds near tram loading and next to the autonomy demonstrations, will be a popular place this year. Farmers who make their way to that side of the showgrounds will have a chance to experience a range of new machines and technology.

Case IH announced the Patriot 50 sprayer series late in 2021, and the machines will be hitting the field later this year. Farmers visiting the show cannot only see the new sprayer, but also get some seat time.

The company started fresh with the sprayer and redesigned it from nose to boom. From a new cab using the same shell as the Steiger tractor to a familiar control layout common to other machines in the Big Red line, the Patriot 50 sprayer brings plenty of new features to the market.

The machine got a 17% boost in material flow, providing the ability to drive faster and apply product at a higher rate. If you’ve got questions about this new sprayer, visit the Ride ’n’ Drive area.

Autosteering vehicle

The utility vehicle has become a fixture on a lot of farms, often replacing the pickup for getting chores done. And each year UTV makers raise their game, bringing new tools and tech to check out.

John Deere recently announced two new machines, both of which will be in the Ride ’n’ Drive area — the AutoTrac Ready Gator and new Signature Gator.

The AutoTrac Ready full-size Gator UTV has AutoTrac-assisted steering in a smaller, more nimble machine. With this tech, farmers can get help with precise grid sampling, spraying and field boundary creation.

The Signature Edition Gator, introduced earlier this year, will also be available. This automotive-inspired vehicle has leather seats, an integrated touchscreen “infotainment” system and high-end audio.

Plenty more on hand

Beyond the Deere area, farmers will find Chevy trucks, including the upgraded Silverado. Seat time in these new trucks offers you a chance to learn more about the features these working vehicles offer.

Agco will have equipment in the Ride ’n’ Drive area, too. The company has launched a range of new tools, and this is an opportunity for farmers to check those out from behind the wheel.

Manufacturers were still locking in what machines they would have on hand for the show, so make the trip to the east side of the showgrounds to check out what’s available.