JCB is launching its first fully electric wheeled loader, with low noise and zero emissions making it “ideal” for tasks in livestock farming and horticulture, while assisting with carbon reduction plans.
The 403E machine is powered by a 20kWh lithium-ion battery pack. These batteries, coupled with high efficiency electric motors and optimised traction and hydraulic systems, allow the loader to carry out 4-5 hours of continuous use.
As with other machines in JCB’s E-Tech range, the 403E features a built-in charger that allows connection to a range of on-site power sources, including renewables such as solar and wind. A 110V socket will fully charge the batteries in 12 hours, while a 230V industrial or domestic plug will charge the battery pack in just 8 hours. JCB’s off-board rapid charger delivers a full charge from a three-phase supply in just 2 hours.
Two electric motors power the driveline and hydraulics, with the the drive motor offering 33.4kW of power and three driving modes (Hare, Tortoise and Snail), that the operator can toggle between, dependent on the speed & precision required.
The new machine boasts productivity on par with the popular diesel equivalent. Like its’ fossil fueled sibling the 403E’s loader arms are available in standard and high-lift configurations, delivering a pin height of 2.9m and 3.1m respectively. It is offered with a fixed or folding canopy initially, with a fully glazed cab as an alternative later this year.
The wheeled loader joins a rapidly growing range of full electric machinery within the JCB line-up, including the 2.5 tonne, 6m lift Loadall 525-60E telescopic handler, which also mirrors the capabilities of its diesel-engine counterpart, while producing zero emissions.
