The order, with dealer Watling JCB, includes eight of the first new 6.5-tonne JCB 65R-1 midi excavator models.
ECL has also added JS290, JS220 and JS130 models. The new fleet has been put to work at the company’s groundworks projects on housebuilding sites across central England. Current projects include external and drainage works for the new Bellway Homes site at New Cardington near Bedford and the Billington Grove development near Leighton Buzzard for Taylor Wimpey.
A direct replacement for the 8065 RTS, the 65R-1 marks a completely new look for JCB midi excavators, with a revised H-design undercarriage, more robust steel body panels, a reconfigured operator environment and a new Perkins engine.
ECL director Steve Tysoe said: “JCB promised the new midi excavators would be on another level and it has delivered on that promise. The new machine is a major upgrade. It looks business-like, heavy-duty and fit for purpose. Power is definitely up and fuel efficiency is improved. They really come into their own in confined areas on site where heavier plant cannot access. The service from our dealer Watling JCB is also excellent, always supporting us throughout the life-cycle of each machine.”
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