JCB going electric in new range

JCB has launched a new range of electric products as it expands its range of zeroemissions machines.

The wraps have come off four brand new electric machines at the company’s World Headquarters in Staffordshire at the company’s first virtual product launch.

The unveiling came on the day that the UK Government outlined its 10 point plan for a Green Industrial Revolution, which includes the intention to build on the UK’S strengths in electric vehicles and hydrogen.

A JCB spokesman said: “JCB is supportive of the UK Government’s ambitious plans to make strides towards net zero by 2050 and the JCB products unveiled will play a crucial role in the future as JCB strives to achieve zero emissions as part of its Road to Zero programme.”

One of the machines unveiled is a Loadall telescopic handler, a machine which is used for lifting and placing loads on construction sites and on farms.

The launch of the 525-60E – which is fully electric – comes 43 years after JCB first launched its diesel-powered Loadall range.

Designed to deliver the same performance as the conventional diesel-powered machine, the 525-60E offers zero-emissions load handling to construction, industrial and agricultural customers.

JCB chief innovation officer Tim Burnhope said: “JCB has taken a pioneering lead in the move to electric propulsion in construction, agricultural and industrial machinery, having already successfully launched an electric mini excavator and electric forklift to the market.

“We are delighted to be launching more electric machines with no compromise in performance or productivity. We are very excited about the prospects for our new electric range.”

JCB also unveiled a one tonne site dumper for transporting loads around construction sites and a walk behind mini dumper as well as a new version of its successful electric mini excavator which now comes complete with a cab for colder climates.