May 17, 2026
John Deere Introduces SmartDetect Assist for Safety
BY AsphaltPro Staff
John Deere, Moline, Illinois, debuted in February, its SmartDetect™ Assist, which is its latest object detection technology. Building on the SmartDetect™ and SmartDetect™ Digital solutions, SmartDetect Assist supports job site safety by automatically slowing or stopping a machine when there is an obstacle detected.
SmartDetect, the foundation of the portfolio, uses cameras and machine learning to identify obstacles and deliver visual and audible alerts, helping operators better understand their surroundings. SmartDetect Digital adds another layer by bringing near miss footage and insights into the John Deere Operations Center™, supporting worker training and management.
Now SmartDetect Assist leverages high-resolution cameras, radar, and an in-cab display to provide operators with a clear, accurate view of the machine’s surroundings. When an obstacle is detected, SmartDetect Assist delivers instant visual and audio alerts inside and outside the machine, followed by dynamic slowing or stopping prior to a potential collision.
While SmartDetect Assist does not replace an operator’s role and responsibility to safely operate the machine, the solution provides an added layer of support to help maximize uptime and job site safety. The system includes configurable operating parameters and safeguards, including operator-controlled momentary override. In addition, the in-cab display features projected reverse path lines, giving operators a clearer understanding of where the machine is headed to help increase situational awareness during operation. SmartDetect Assist is available today on select John Deere Utility Loaders.
