JCB unveiled a new generation of backhoe loaders and other of its earthmoving machines at Bauma last week. The machines benefit from more comfortable cabs, new heated front screens, an in-cab hot drinks machine, power brakes providing proportional braking, fuel economy improvements, combined hammer and bi-directional circuits for greater versatility.
“The new generation of JCB backhoe loaders represents a significant investment and the result is JCB’s most efficient backhoe loader ever, designed with fuel economy firmly in mind,” said Tim Burnhope, managing director for product development and commercial operations. “Whether loading, roading or digging, JCB’s latest generation of backhoe loaders offers the customer a machine that works harder but uses less fuel.”
A new EcoDig hydraulic system utilizes three hydraulic pumps to provide the same hydraulic output but at lower engine speeds, the company said, delivering average fuel savings of up to 15 percent. Operators are able to select from two working modes, either Eco mode or low flow. A secondary benefit of the three-pump design is faster performance of the extradig extending dipper stick. The new hydraulic system contributes to a cut in exhaust emissions and a reduction in overall noise levels, inside the cab and externally.
Power brakes are to be introduced on both 3CX and 4CX models. JCB’s Ecoload package of options is an additional benefit. The return-to-dig feature automatically resets the shovel to dig position, saving time and effort. An automatic heated front windscreen on all 3CX and 4CXmodels will be available later this year for winter.
