Author: Mandy Tan

Evidence is being sought on how NRMM might decarbonise as part of the Government’s wider net zero ambitions. As the clock ticks down to the March 26th submissions deadline, JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford called on industry to embrace a unique opportunity to shape the future.

 

 

Lord Bamford | JCB Chairman

 

“It is vital everyone affected engages in this process to help determine which technologies are appropriate to achieve a net zero future. In JCB’s case, we will highlighting the important role that hydrogen will play alongside electric technology for smaller products.”

JCB has been at the forefront of the development of super-efficient hydrogen combustion engines as part of a £100 million investment to develop a zero-carbon emission solution for construction and agricultural equipment. JCB has also led the way in electric technology, which is suitable for smaller machines which do less hours and typically use less fuel than larger machines which have a higher energy requirement.

The call for evidence is being led by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs and the Department for Transport. It focuses on the potential ways of decarbonising at least 58 diverse NRMM products covering construction and agricultural equipment, and also machinery used in warehousing, logistics, mines and quarries.

To participate in the call for evidence visit:

Non-road mobile machinery: decarbonisation options

The two family companies are joining forces to establish JCB as the official heavy equipment partner of Monster Jam – an alliance which has seen the wraps come off a new truck design added to the Monster Jam fleet known as JCB DIGatron.

It was designed in conjunction with JCB’s engineering team and inspired by JCB’s iconic construction equipment and is set to make its debut at Monster Jam in January at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas – the city which is also the site of a proposed new JCB factory announced last month.

JCB DIGatron will be driven by reigning Monster Jam World Finals® Racing champion Tristan England at events around the United States, wowing hundreds of thousands of fans. At selected events where DIGatron is participating, JCB will provide equipment to support track construction as well as a JCB 457 wheeled loader for recovery purposes.

 

 

Juliette Feld Grossman| Chief Operating Officer Feld Entertainment

 

Alice Bamford, who is daughter of JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, said: “Our family is delighted by the partnership between Monster Jam and JCB. Our son, Otis, is the original Monster Jam fan in our family, and it is through his eyes that we realised how incredible it could be to join forces with another family business like Feld Entertainment as both companies share the same values of innovation, dedication, passion, and attention to detail. We are thrilled about the hours of entertainment that JCB DIGatron, with Tristan at the wheel, will bring to children, families, and our customers across North America!”

About Monster Jam

Unexpected, unscripted, and unforgettable, Monster Jam® features world-class athletes competing for championships on perfectly engineered dirt tracks that push these ever-evolving, state-of-the-art trucks to the limit. Beyond the 350 global live events each year, the Monster Jam brand extends off the track into the home through products, content, and merchandise that keeps the fun alive year-round.  For more information, visit MonsterJam.com.

About Feld Motor Sports

Feld Motor Sports Inc., a subsidiary of Feld Entertainment Inc., is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting specialized arena and stadium-based motorsports entertainment. Properties include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Visit monsterjam.com, SupercrossLIVE.com, and feldentertainment.com for more information.

Company founder Joseph Cyril Bamford CBE invented the backhoe concept and the first JCB model was manufactured in 1953 after he combined a lightweight backhoe with a Major Loadall tractor loader. It created, for the first time, a single machine which combined a front shovel and rear excavator arm.

While it took 20 years for JCB to build its 50,000 backhoes, under the leadership of JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, more than 900,000 have now been made. JCB has been world market leader for backhoes for almost 25 years and today manufactures the iconic machine in the UK, India, and Brazil.  A total of 70 limited-edition 70th birthday 3CX PRO and 4 CX PRO machines will be manufactured.

 

 

Lord Bamford| JCB Chairman

The Platinum Edition models will have servo excavator controls, Powerslide, air conditioning and bi-directional auxiliary flow hydraulics. The machines will bear limited edition Platinum decals and grille badge. They will have Platinum-coloured wheels, while in the cab there will be an embroidered graphic in the carpet and upgraded seat material with 70th anniversary branding, along with a steering wheel centre cap featuring the 70th logo. Each machine will also have a special plaque and customers will receive a special Platinum gift pack with the backhoe loader.

Over the last seven decades JCB has continued to develop and enhance the backhoe loader concept, with turbocharged engines, powershift transmissions, all-wheel drive and extending dipper arms. The machine has broadened in appeal, with the launch of the skid-steer based 1CX, the all-wheel steer 3CX Compact and the larger 4CX and 5CX equal-sized wheel machines.

 

The JCB Loadall 530-60 AGRISuper is ideally sized to match the needs of livestock farms with narrow aisles and passages, and caters for the needs of pig and poultry units in particular by combining high levels of power and traction with compact dimensions for productive performance, especially when working inside buildings with restricted height.

Power is provided by a 4.8-litre Stage V emissions-compliant JCB DieselMAX engine with peak outputs of 97kW (130hp) and 550Nm of torque, which is combined with a new two-speed hydrostatic transmission.

This combination delivers a 25% increase in dynamic tractive effort over its predecessor, 527-58 AGRI Plus, which is a real boost to productivity when bulldozing litter from chicken sheds.

JCB’s established VariSpeed control, meanwhile, provides separate engine revs and ground speed adjustment when using hydraulically-driven attachments like a bucket feeder or sweeper.

An overall height of just 2.0m on the 20in tyre option ensures sufficient clearance to work beneath feeders and drinkers raised out of the way for the cleaning-out operation.

To suit outdoor working on muddy and uneven surfaces, the new JCB Loadall 530-60 AGRISuper is also available on 24in tyres for maximum ground clearance and traction; on these tyres, overall width is just 2.1m and even less on the 20in tyres at 2.0m.

Yet within those tight dimensions, the new Loadall has a JCB Smart Hydraulics package featuring regenerative hydraulics for fast but controlled boom lowering, Smooth Ride System boom suspension, boom-end hydraulic cylinder damping, and bucket shake with minimal control input.

It also has improved visibility and a host of previously optional features installed as standard, taking its equipment level close to that of JCB’s larger Loadall telehandlers.

As a result, the new model will provide much-increased productivity potential for livestock producers who need a nimble, compact machine for daily tasks in and around buildings.

Commercial asset supplier Dawsongroup has already bought 11 JCB Pothole Pros – but all are now out on long-term hire with councils up and down the country, with more urgently needed.

Demand for the machines is huge, especially given the Asphalt Industry Alliance’s (AIA) Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance survey estimating that there are a record £14 billion worth of outstanding road repairs in England and Wales – or a nine-year backlog.

 

 

Glen Carruther | Dawsongroup | emc Managing Director

JCB Municipalities General Manager Ben Rawding said: “It’s great to see the success that Dawsongroup is enjoying with the Pothole Pro. More and more local authorities, and the contractors working on their behalf, are recognising that the Pothole Pro is the best way to fix Britain’s roads quickly and permanently, first time. It is now easier than ever for UK authorities to get a JCB Pothole Pro on to their network, whether it’s in a city or in a rural county and the public will now really start to see their presence on the roads and streets around the UK.”

Tests show the JCB Pothole Pro can complete a pothole repair in less than eight minutes, four times quicker than standard methods and equivalent to 700 potholes per month. With a 40km/h travel speed, the machine can also rapidly relocate between sites without additional transport costs. The JCB Pothole Pro is a unique 3-in-1 machine, cutting out the damaged surface, cropping the edges and cleaning the hole, ensuring a permanent fix.

Dawsongroup | emc is JCB’s official rental partner for the Pothole Pro and the additional machines will be supplied through dealer TC Harrison JCB. Dawsongroup | emc, previously known as Dawsongroup | sweepers, is part of a global group of companies committed to providing an extensive product range, and first-class customer service across the supply chain.

 

Clean Power

JCB is expanding its full electric equipment line-up, with the launch of the 403E wheeled loader, helping customers to meet the challenge of carbon reduction on site. The machine is powered by a 20kWh lithium-ion battery pack, assembled from proven JCB modules, as pioneered in the company’s existing range of electric equipment. These batteries, coupled with high efficiency electric motors and optimised traction and hydraulic systems, deliver class-leading performance, with the loader capable of completing a full working day, or 4-5 hours of continuous use in a mixed duty cycle.

In common with the JCB E-Tech range, the 403E has a built-in charger that allows connection to a range of on-site power sources. A 110V socket will fully charge the batteries in 12 hours, while a 230V industrial or domestic plug will charge the battery pack in just 8 hours. JCB’s off-board rapid charger can also be used with the 403E, delivering a full charge from a three-phase supply in just 2 hours.

The machine is equipped with two independent electric motors, one for the driveline and one for the hydraulics. The drive motor offers 33.4kW of power and comes with three driving modes, that the operator can toggle between using two buttons on the top of the joystick.

Hare Mode has a maximum 20kph drive speed for the most dynamic performance and productivity.

Tortoise Mode is limited to 8kph for improved speed modulation. This contributes to improved battery life with no compromise to lifting performance.

Snail Mode has a 5kph maximum speed, that can be adjusted in 0.5kph increments through a new rotary controller and the multifunction display. This delivers precise speed control for precision driving and inching.

Drive is transmitted through an integrated drop-box to ZF axles, that can be supplied with open differentials or with differential locks for maximum traction. The loader is offered with a choice of narrow or wide wheels, plus the option of agricultural or industrial tyres, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Productive loader
Carried over from the 403 diesel model, the loader arms are available in standard and high-lift configurations. The standard lift arms deliver a pin height of 2.9m, while the high-lift model achieves a 3.1m pin height. Both loader arm set-ups come with a hydraulic quick hitch as standard and the loader arms provide a true parallel lift capability.

The 403E offers a tipping load of 972kg with pallet forks, within a transport weight of just 2,671kg. This puts the 403E within EU trailer towable standards, making it an ideal machine for landscape, municipal and rental customers. A heavy-duty counterweight is available as an option, increasing the tipping load by 118kg and the transport weight by 121kg.

The machine has a single joystick with a proportional auxiliary controller on top. An optional second auxiliary roller can be provided, allowing the operator to access all loader functions from one lever for faster operation.

The machine has a 20kW high efficiency hydraulic pump motor and the hydraulic system offers two operating modes, controlled by a rocker switch on the main console. Shovel/bucket mode provides dynamic response, while the fork mode delivers increased precision control. A programmable constant flow auxiliary feature is also standard, to power motorised attachments, with the operator setting the flow rate through the main display and rotary controller.

Operator comfort

The 403E is offered with a fixed or folding canopy initially, with a fully glazed cab as an alternative from Q3 in 2023. There is a new multifunction digital display, controlled by the rotary controller to the right of the loader joystick. The operator can use the rotary controller to set auxiliary hydraulic flow rates, inching travel speeds and other settings within the display. The monitor also provides all critical machine operating data, including driving mode, state of battery charge and travel speed.

The wheeled loader joins a rapidly growing range of full electric machinery within the JCB line-up. This proven technology is revolutionising the way in which contractors, local authorities and rental companies work, offering zero-emission performance at the point of use. With reduced noise levels and machine vibration, the 403E is a comfortable, highly productive zero-emission loader, capable of working with a range of attachments.

Clean Power
JCB is building upon the success of its two 230V single-phase electric powerpacks, with the launch of three new 400V three-phase units. When used in conjunction with existing on-site power generation equipment, JCB battery powerpacks allow customers to reduce their dependence on diesel-powered generators when electrical demand is low. This increases efficiency, reduces fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, for a cleaner, lower carbon worksite.

In typical construction site use, rental generators can spend as much as 80% of the time running inefficiently at or below 30% load. However, even at this load, they require fuel, produce emissions and noise, and will need regular servicing. Project offices and cabins, for example, can be powered by a diesel generator set for up to 24 hours a day, seven days a week, though at night they may simply be powering CCTV and security lighting. With tower cranes, diesel generators can be used for as little as one hour a day, though the generator operates throughout the working shift.

In the events industry, diesel generators can create disruptive noise and exhaust emissions, while remote applications such as communication masts require very little power, though their location makes a diesel generator a necessity.

The solution is a JCB electric powerpack. Powerpacks can be used to support the low overnight load on a construction project, reducing reliance on noisy diesel generators, which will be popular with local residents in urban applications. A powerpack can also be used to provide the power for lighting and heating in a tower crane, with the diesel generator only required during lifting operations.

Powerpacks also deliver a green solution for charging JCB E-Tech electric machinery, such as mini excavators, compact telescopic handlers and site dumpers. The powerpack can be charged with green electricity and then transported to site, to recharge machines as required. This allows the use of environmentally-friendly electric machinery in remote locations without a site supply of mains electricity.

Reduced cost
By utilising electric powerpacks, rental companies and contractors can reduce their reliance on diesel power, cutting service and maintenance, as well as operating costs. The JCB electric powerpack can help customers to reduce their CO2 emissions, to lower noise on site and extend generator life.

The three new powerpacks are the 3.50QE, the 3.75QE and the 3.100QE. With an output voltage of 400V, they have a total storage capacity of 46kWh, 69kWh and 104kWh respectively. With a continuous output of 36kW at 25C, each unit offers multiple socket connections, with RCD protection and input and output busbars, for ultimate connection flexibility.

The powerpacks are JCB LiveLink enabled, providing remote monitoring and ensuring that power is available when and where it is required. LiveLink also gives users the option to control some of the output sockets, enabling operators to remotely turn off sockets that are no longer required, to improve the efficiency of their site.

Each JCB electric powerpack is installed in a robust full steel enclosure, with lifting points and fork lift pockets, making it easy to transport on site. There are no fluids, no filters and no routine service requirements, ensuring low running costs and maximum availability. Equipped with energy-dense lithium-ion battery technology, JCB electric powerpacks deliver maximum power in the smallest package, reducing dependence on diesel power generation in every application.

Electric drive

With these new models, the hydraulic drive motors are replaced by electric drive motors. The efficiency improvement, from replacing hydraulic with electric motors, results in an increase in productivity, with up to a 53% longer run time on a single battery charge. This reduces overall charging cost, lowering total cost of ownership for the customer.

The electric motors also deliver increased torque to the wheels and up to 25% gradeability, making it easier to drive on inclines and to load up truck ramps. With the hydraulic motors replaced, there are up to 50% fewer hydraulic connections on a single-cylinder machine, or 48% on a twin-lift cylinder model, cutting the potential for leaks and making it easier to maintain the machine.

The S1932E model replaces the previous S1930E, adding 50mm to its width, despite a 106kg drop in operating weight. This makes it easier to transport on a trailer or when moving multiple machines. The S1932E offers a platform height of 5.71m and a platform capacity of 230kg. Moving up the range, the S2632E has a platform height of 7.92m with a 250kg capacity and the S3246E offers a 9.7m platform height, but with a higher 320kg weight limit.

Later in the year, the S2646E will provide a 7.9m platform height and a 450kg load capacity, while the S4046E will deliver an 11.9m platform height and 320kg weight limit. Finally, the S4550E has a platform height of up to 13.8m and a 230kg capacity.

The new electric drive scissors benefit from all of the features already seen on JCB’s hydraulic drive models, including safety features such as a full height entry gate, pothole protection and intuitive operator controls. The machines have swing-out battery and hydraulic trays for easy access, while the proven EPD paint finish, full size pivot bosses and drive motor protection ensure that these durable machines offer long service life with maximum uptime.

All of the electric drive scissor models come with a two-year warranty, backed by industry-leading support, from more than 770 dealers and 18 parts centres worldwide, providing peace of mind for customers and maximising return on investment.

High capacity
JCB is building on its successful aerial work platform line-up, with the addition of two articulated boom machines. The A45E is a full electric version of the previous AJ48D, offering zero emission working with all of that machine’s performance, working height and forward reach. The A45EH is a diesel/electric hybrid version of the same machine, ideal for working in more remote locations where an external power supply is not readily available.

The A45E is powered by eight 6V batteries, creating a 48V, 400AH operating system. The battery packs are located on either side of the lower chassis, maintaining a low centre of gravity for added stability and improved traction. The batteries power AC drive motors via motor controllers and the machine’s hydraulic pump through a hydraulic motor controller.

The A45EH uses a 14.8kW three-cylinder diesel engine and a 7.5kWa generator to power the machine’s eight 6V batteries. The engine is mounted on a swing-out tray, making it easier to service and maintain when required. A 40-litre fuel tank provides more than enough fuel for a full week of operation, making the machine an ideal low emission platform for more remote locations. The battery can also be plugged into a mains supply if available.

Both of the platforms have four-wheel drive and two-wheel steering as standard. The wheels are driven by four AC motors and these motors recover energy through regenerative braking, to prolong battery performance. As drive is provided to each individual wheel, the machine is capable of climbing up to 40% gradients. An oscillating axle ensures that maximum traction is maintained on rough ground when the boom is stowed. However, the axle is locked, to ensure machine stability, when the machine enters boom raise mode. Foam-filled, non-marking tyres are standard.

Maximum lift
The platform has three entry points for ease of access. There are four harness clipping locations, allowing the operator full access around the basket. The platform length is 0.84m and the width is 1.84m. A secondary guarding system is provided, automatically halting boom functions when triggered, to protect the operator and prevent crushing.

The booms are equipped with a Slew Acknowledgment feature, that ensures that the operator must register if the boom is slewed over the side of the chassis before driving when elevated. A Tilt Sensor prevents machine elevation when the chassis is on unlevel ground, tilting the machine to more than 5.

Maximum platform height is 13.84m on either model, with a horizontal reach of up to 7.47m, providing an up and over clearance of 7.48m. The lift capacity for both booms is 300kg.

JCB’s LiveLink telematics monitoring system provides real-time operating data on performance, service schedules and fault codes. Managers can remotely record engine operation, low fuel warnings, tilt sensor warnings and overload warnings. LiveLink also provide battery voltage, fuel level and platform load percentage data.

The A45E and A45EH deliver a higher lift capacity, with zero emission or low-emission hybrid power. The machines offer higher levels of efficiency, with higher levels of monitoring, delivering and enhanced operator experience and increased productivity.

New friendly display
These machines are equipped with a 5” colour display on the platform, providing operators with essential data. This intuitive interface enhances safety and protectivity on the job site.

In addition, the machines feature a unique control system that eliminates the need to switch between platform controls and ground controls. Operators can seamlessly operate the machine from either location, eliminating the hassle of switching control modes.