JCB taking the Road to Zero
JCB recently unveiled new all-electric models that are a part of its Road to Zero emissions initiative.
At its first international virtual press conference November 28, JCB officials unveiled three new all-electric pieces of equipment and briefly discussed future plans for all-electric and even fuel-cell powered equipment.
The three pieces of E-Tech equipment featured were the 505-20E Loadall telehandler, the 19C-1E mini excavator with a full temperature-controlled cab, and its rapid 48 to 96-volt Universal Charger that is compatible with current and future E-Tech electric models.
Sources report that each model is capable to complete the same work as a similar-sized diesel-powered unit for a full shift of operation.
JCB 505-20E Loadall telehandler
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| JCB is introducing the 505-20E, a fully electric version of the popular Loadall with enough battery power to perform at the same level as a diesel unit for a full shift of work. |
JCB expands its E-Tech range of zero-emissions machines with the launch of its first-ever electric Loadall telescopic handler model. More than 43 years after the company pioneered the concept of telescopic handlers, JCB is introducing the 505-20E, a fully electric version of the popular Loadall.
Designed to deliver the same performance as the conventional diesel-powered machine, the 505-20E offers a zero-emissions material handling solution to construction, industrial and agricultural customers.
“JCB has taken a pioneering lead in the move to electric propulsion in construction, agricultural and industrial machinery, having successfully introduced the 19C-1E mini excavator and the 66-40E Teletruk to the market. The launch of the JCB 505-20E Loadall takes equipment electrification further into general construction, industrial and agricultural markets, offering a zero-emissions material handling solution with no compromise in performance or productivity. We are very excited about the prospects for this machine,” says Tim Burnhope, JCB Chief Innovation officer.
Key features of the new Loadall include:
- Dual electric motors for drive and lift deliver increased efficiency
- Brake regeneration boosts battery charge
- Regenerative hydraulics increase efficiency
- Full shift operation capability
- Range of charging options, including on-board and off-board rapid charging
The 505-20E uses two proven electric motors, one for the driveline and the second to power the hydraulic system. The 23 hp (17kW) traction motor drives through a permanent four-wheel drive dropbox, to JCB drive/steer axles. The 30hp (22kW) hydraulic system motor powers a fixed displacement gear pump, delivering a maximum 21 gal/min (80 l/min) of flow.
Flow is proportional to joystick position and the lift end is controlled by an electro-hydraulic valve block, with hydraulic regeneration on boom function.
Powered by a 96-volt Li-ion battery, is capable of providing full-shift operation. The machine has a 240-volt, 16-amp on-board charger capable of recharging the battery in 8 to 10 hours. An optional JCB Universal Charger can be used for a rapid top-up during breaks, in as little as 60 minutes.
With zero-emissions operation, it can be used inside buildings, in underground construction and maintenance work, shipping ports, on environmentally friendly sites, around hazardous materials, and in urban areas with stringent emissions regulations. Electric operation offers a significant reduction in noise levels, making the Loadall suitable for extended operation in noise-restricted areas such as schools, inner city work, and hospitals.
JCB’s electric mini becomes machine for all seasons
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| JCB will now offer a fully glazed cab on the 19C-1E – an industry first for the electric mini excavator sector. |
JCB will now offer a fully glazed cab on the 19C-1E – an industry first for the electric mini excavator sector. This development will increase its appeal in countries with a colder, wetter climate. The machine will use the same spacious cab as JCB’s conventional 1 to 2-ton models and will be equipped with an electric heater to provide instant heat to demist windows and warm the cab working environment for the operator.
With a large, glazed area, the ROPS/FOPS cab is equipped with easy-to-replace laminated flat glass. It has a 70/30 front windshield split, with clear jointing, for an unobstructed view of the digging area. The JCB cab offers a clear view all around the machine. The cab uses the same LED working lights and wipers as the diesel models, making it easier to work in poor visibility or during hours of darkness when required.
When operating the machine with the heater on, there is zero impact to the machine’s digging or tracking performance. Battery capacity allows a full day’s shift of work on one charge.
Off-board rapid Universal charger to suit all JCB E-Tech machines
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| Working with machine electrical systems from 48V to 96V and above, the JCB Universal Charger offers customers a future-proofed off-board rapid-charging solution to allow extended working capability with battery electric construction and industrial machinery. |
JCB has developed a new rapid Universal Charger, compatible with current and future E-Tech electric models. Working with machine electrical systems from 48V to 96V and above, the JCB Universal Charger offers customers a future-proofed off-board rapid-charging solution to allow extended working capability with battery electric construction and industrial machinery.
All JCB E-Tech equipment is supplied from the factory with a standard built-in charger and rapid charger preparation, allowing customers to simply and quickly cap off the charge and return to work. The charger unit, which is available through JCB dealers and JCB Parts, can be easily installed at any site with a 480-volt three-phase electrical supply.
By offering a Universal Charger, rather than chargers dedicated to each product line, JCB is delivering a single rapid-charge solution that can be used across a fleet of machines on site or in the yard. The unit can recharge the 19C-1E electric mini excavator from zero charge to full in just 2.5 hours for quick turnaround and boosting productivity potential.
Future plans
Presenters also touched on other emerging technologies for equipment power, including its work on hycrogen fuel-cell technology that coul provide emissions-free and renewable power for larger equipment such as thoe units used in indusrial and agricultural applications.
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