JCB Announces Tier 4 Machine Updates, Livelink Technology

July 6, 2012
JCB last week announced it has made various Tier 4 engine updates to many machine models.

JCB last week announced it has made various Tier 4 engine updates to many machine models. In addition, LiveLink Technology with real-time machine information is now available on various wheel loader models and JS excavators.

JCB is the only leading equipment and engine manufacturer in the world to have met the Tier 4 Interim emissions standards by having no after-treatment, the company said. It has been achieved through the use of innovative in-cylinder technologies alone, rather than resorting to external exhaust after treatment or a diesel particulate filter.

In addition, this no-after treatment approach makes it possible for JCB dealers to recalibrate the Ecomax engine for used equipment that is sold into lesser regulated countries with higher sulphur content fuels.

JCB’s Ecomax engine will be fitted into machines spanning the 74 hp to174 hp range, including JCB backhoe loaders, Loadall telescopic handlers, wheeled loading shovels, the JS excavators, rough terrain forklifts, skid-steer loaders and compact track loaders.

“We at JCB are proud that through engineering excellence and innovation, we have been able to achieve the power and torque that our customers require to get the job done, while lowering fuel consumption and meeting stringent emissions criteria from around the world,” said Alan Tolley, JCB’s director of engine programs.

“We’ve invested heavily in the JCB Ecomax engine because we believe that our customers shouldn’t have to pay additional service and maintenance costs to meet emissions standards, when those standards can be achieved through the use of in-cylinder clean burning combustion technology.”

As the Ecomax engines feature electronic control, JCB has been able to fully integrate engine diagnostics and analysis into its LiveLink telematic system on certain models. Customers will be able to access location information, service alerts, engine health alerts and other critical data.

JCB last week also launched LiveLink for its heavy line range in North America. Introduced in May 2012, all mid-size and large wheel loaders and JS excavators are now outfitted with LiveLink as a standard feature.

LiveLink uses the latest telematics and satellite positioning technology to provide real-time machine information. Using a transmitter, the machine sends data via cellular networks to a database that can be accessed anywhere in the world. The unit is hard wired into each machine’s electrics allowing critical machine performance data to be collected remotely.

“With the introduction of LiveLink, JCB owners can now see real time information on their machines,” said Chris Giorgianni, vice president of product - JCB North America. “The peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly where your machine is and what your operator is doing is an invaluable feature to an owner and their business.”

JCB, the world’s third-largest construction equipment brand, manufactures more than 300 different machines including backhoe loaders; Loadall telescopic handlers; tracked and wheeled excavators; wheeled loading shovels; articulated dump trucks; rough terrain forklifts; mini excavators; robot skid-steer loaders and JCB Vibromax compaction equipment.