JCB has launched the updated version of its popular 3CX range of backhoe loaders and new heavy-duty excavators in the Middle East market at a key event in Dubai this month. The revised range includes the 3CX, 3CX Plus and the 3CX PRO models.
Speaking at the launch event held at Jebel Ali Resort, JCB said it was building on its global leadership of the backhoe loader market with the update to its 'world-beating' 3CX range.
The new 3CX model, which is powered by a 55kW naturally-aspirated diesel engine, has a fixed dipper arm, and comes with manual controls. It can be equipped with a general purpose (GP) or a six-in-one front shovel.
The 3CX Plus, powered by a 68kW turbocharged engine, comes with a fixed or an extending dipper arm and a GP or six-in-one front shovel with the option of flip-over forks.
At the rear, a 600-mm bucket comes as standard. An optional 300-mm bucket and a grading bucket, as well as optional hammer pipework or bucket-to-grab changeover, are also available, said JCB in a statement.
The 3CX Plus has a new integrated HVAC system as standard and comes with manual excavator controls, it stated.
Topping the range is the 3CX PRO, which gets the same engine, shovel, dipper, and rear bucket options as the 3CX Plus. For the first time, the 3CX PRO comes with seat-mounted servo controls as standard, providing effortless control of the excavator and loader and unobscured visibility to the rear of the machine when excavating.
The machine also comes with a hammer/bi-directional auxiliary circuit as standard. Its other key features include:
•New ROPS/FOPS cab as standard, with a new interior and HVAC system;
•Single loader lever with integral directional control;
•Seat-mounted joystick controls standard on PRO models;
•Variable flow pump, auto idle, auto stop and work modes leading to 24% fuel saving versus leading competitors;
•EasyShift transmission as standard and Smooth Ride System for improved roading performance;
•JCB LiveLink telematics reporting of fuel levels.
Group Product Innovation Director Richard Brooks said: "This new range of machines represents a huge investment by JCB and shows our commitment to the future of the backhoe loader. This will maintain JCB’s position as the world’s leading manufacturer of backhoe loaders, by making life much easier for the operator."
"Through increased comfort and by significantly improving efficiency and productivity, JCB has ensured that the JCB 3CX backhoe loader remains the first choice for customers and operators," stated Brooks.
The JCB backhoe loader, he said, was celebrating 70 years in production and it continues to be one of the most popular machines in the global construction industry.
“Bringing together the capabilities of a loading shovel, a forklift, an excavator, and a tool carrier in a single versatile machine, the JCB backhoe loader remains the ultimate master of all trades,” he stated.
A new cab and an extensive range of new features and options for 2024 will help customers to reduce costs and increase efficiency, with improved operator comfort, versatility and productivity when loading, roading and excavating, noted Brooks.
"What better way to celebrate 70 years of the JCB backhoe loader than the launch of this new machine range purposely designed for the non-legislated markets?" he added.
In another development, JCB has announced the launch of its JS385LC HD, a heavy-duty tracked excavator that has been purpose-built for the mining, quarrying and civil engineering sectors.
The new JS385LC HD builds on the success of JCB’s popular JS370, with a host of strengthened and reinforced features, designed to maximise durability and reliability in the toughest operating conditions.
The new model weighs in at 37.3-38 tonnes, with a maximum digging reach of 10.58m and a digging depth of 6.82m from the longer 2.63m dipper, it stated, adding a shorter 2.21m mass excavation dipper arm is also available.
JCB’s powerful six-cylinder Dieselmax 672 diesel engine delivers 212kW (284hp) and a massive 1,150Nm of torque.
The JS385LC HD utilises quality Japanese hydraulic components, with twin 304 litre/min Kawasaki pumps and a Kayaba main control valve, ensuring that the JS385LC HD delivers in the toughest conditions. Maximum bucket tearout is 262.7kN, while dipper tearout is 254.9kN, said the statement.
According to JCB, the machine has eight user-friendly operating modes, including three lifting modes and four digging modes, allowing the operator to set the performance for each application.
A power boost function increases hydraulic pressure by 9%, for higher digging and lifting performance. Advanced eco hydraulic technologies regenerate power from the lift and dipper cylinders as the boom is lowered, while Auto Idler and One Touch idle functions are also standard, ensuring the maximum fuel efficiency, it added.
The key features include:
•Proven, efficient Tier 2 JCB Dieselmax six-cylinder engine
•Heavy-duty track frame with reinforced idlers and strengthened frame
•Heavy-duty dig end for maximum durability
•Reinforced side members protect upper structure from impacts
•Deluxe air-conditioned operator cab mounted on six viscous mounts to cut vibration
•Up to 2.3m3 bucket capacity for maximum productivity
A key highlight of the new model is that it is equipped with a spacious operator’s cab, that sits on six viscous mounts, to reduce noise and vibration in the cab.
A large glazed area ensures maximum visibility all round and the cab comes with air conditioning as standard. The machine benefits from a full range of mirrors and working lights, it stated.
JCB said its smart control system features a clear, colour screen and rotary controller that allows the operator to check vital machine functions, such as engine oil, fuel and coolant levels.
The self-diagnostic system can also detect water within the fuel, warning the operator to schedule maintenance before a problem occurs, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
