JCB launches its first electric loader
JCB has introduced its first full electric wheeled loader with low noise and zero-emission operation.
The JCB 403E claims to offer the largest standard lithium-ion battery pack in its class, with a 20kWh capacity. These batteries, coupled with high efficiency electric motors and optimised traction and hydraulic systems, enable the loader to complete a full working day, or 4-5 hours of continuous use.
In common with the JCB E-Tech range, the 403E has a built-in charger that allows connection to a range of on-site power sources. 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 can also be used with the 403E, delivering a full charge from a three-phase supply in just 2 hours.
The machine is equipped with two independent electric motors, one for the drive line and one for the hydraulics. The drive motor offers 33.4kW of power and comes with three driving modes, that the operator can toggle between using two buttons on the top of the joystick. Drive is transmitted through an integrated drop-box to ZF axles, that can be supplied with open differentials or with differential locks for maximum traction. The loader is offered with a choice of narrow or wide wheels, plus the option of agricultural or industrial tyres.
Carried over from the 403 diesel model, the loader arms are available in standard and high-lift configurations. The standard lift arms deliver a pin height of 2.9m, while the high-lift model achieves a 3.1m pin height. Both loader arm set-ups come with a hydraulic quick hitch as standard and the loader arms provide a true parallel lift capability.
The 403E offers a tipping load of 972kg with pallet forks, within a transport weight of just 2671kg. A heavy-duty counterweight is available as an option, increasing the tipping load by 118kg and the transport weight by 121kg.
The 403E is offered with a fixed or folding canopy initially, with a fully glazed cab as an alternative from Q3 in 2023. There is a new multifunction digital display, controlled by the rotary controller to the right of the loader joystick. The operator can use the rotary controller to set auxiliary hydraulic flow rates, inching travel speeds and other settings within the display.
