JCB is expanding its E-TECH lineup of zero-emissions machines with the launch of its first-ever electric Loadall telehandler. The 505-20E is designed to deliver the same performance as the conventional diesel-powered machine.
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 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.
The traction drive motor utilizes regenerative braking, instead of a traditional braking system, topping up the battery in the process. The hydraulic system also regenerates flow while lowering the boom, reducing the power requirement, and extending operating hours. The brake regen function automatically turns off when the battery is fully charged.
The machine has a 240V, 16A on-board charger capable of recharging the battery in 8–10 hours. An optional JCB Universal Charger can be used for a rapid top-up during breaks, in as little as 60 minutes.
The 505-20E has been designed to meet the current and future needs of customers in a variety of industry sectors, providing zero-emissions operation for working 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.
A secondary benefit of electric operation is 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. The 505-20E delivers an in-cab noise level of just 66.7dB, while the external level is 92.2dB. A white noise reversing alarm is available as an option, to warn site workers of machine movement.
The full-size ROPS/FOPS cab is ergonomically designed for fatigue-free operation, with easily located controls. The machine will be offered as a cab or canopy.
Maximum lift capacity is unchanged from the diesel model as the 505-20E has the same 5,500 pounds (2,500 kg) capability. External dimensions also remain the same with 12 feet 1 inch (3.7m) outside turn radius and overall height of 6 feet 2 inches (1.89m). The machine has been designed to deliver similar cycle times as the diesel telescopic, with no loss of performance. It can be used with forks, a range of buckets and many other JCB Loadall attachments.
JCB Chief Innovation Officer Tim Burnhope said, "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."