JCB gears up for F1 involvement

Sergio Perez (left) and Lance Stroll with a JCB Loadall in Melbourne

JCB Loadall telehandlers are gearing up for this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix and the start of the manufacturer’s partnership with a new British motor racing team.

JCB confirmed last month it had teamed up with SportPesa Racing Point in a move which will see JCB branding on the two cars driven by Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez.

The first Formula One race of the season takes place in Melbourne, with JCB Loadalls equipped with special jib attachments set to take their place trackside. The 15 531-70 models will be on hand to help recover crashed cars.

Worldwide marketing director Michael Plummer said, “We are excited to kick off our new partnership with SportPesa Racing Point in Melbourne and delighted that JCB telehandlers will also be making an appearance at the Australian races. JCB Loadalls are the biggest selling telescopic handlers in the world and already a familiar sight on Formula One race circuits.

“To have them trackside at this season’s inaugural race is a great opportunity to show off the machines’ capabilities to a global audience.”

The special jib attachment was developed to move the lifting point of the car away from the machine, which JCB said makes it easier and safer to recover a vehicle from the track.