Matt needs to indicate me three JCBs: the 220X, a Backhoe Loader 3CX and a revolutionary new electrical mini excavator referred to as – that is the no-nonsense world of building, bear in mind – the 19C-1E.
As soon as I’ve received a primary grip of its controls, I uncover the 19C-1E is as able to scooping up rubble and scurrying round on its tracks as I think about its fossil-fuelled equal, the 19C-1, to be. Identical to an electrical automotive, torque is immediate, leading to easy shovelling. Its 4 lithium ion batteries pack sufficient energy to final a full working shift and might be rapid-charged in 2.5 hours.
Nonetheless, spectacular although it’s, I can’t see the 1E competing on stage phrases with diesel diggers. “Don’t underestimate it,” says Matt. “Not solely can the 1E work outdoor however it could actually achieve this at night time with out disturbing anybody. Its largest benefit, although, is that it could actually work in emissions-sensitive environments and inside buildings with out requiring costly air extraction methods.”
It’s a correct little mole. And flicking a swap brings its two tracks nearer collectively, enabling me to drive it down a slender ramp. Strive doing that in a Tesla.
Backhoe loader
JCB invented the backhoe loader, a flexible, wheeled digger with a entrance shovel and a rear excavator arm. It was the making of the corporate and the 750,000th mannequin rolled off the manufacturing line earlier this yr. Matt needs to indicate me the newest model, the 3CX, with options together with automated stabilisers, JCB’s Easy Experience System and Torquelock, which reduces on-road gasoline consumption.
The cab is filled with controls nice and small, in addition to touchscreens. Joysticks and levers apart, all of it seems to be and feels car-like: powerful however intelligently laid out. Sensible, too: the steering wheel adjusts for attain and rake and there’s a column shift for the four-speed gearbox.
