A machine built to celebrate the 70th birthday of the JCB backhoe loader is set to help train operators of the future.
Sheffield-based K-Plant Hire has taken delivery of one of the first platinum-edition JCB backhoes, which were introduced to commemorate the anniversary.
The firm, a plant hirer and groundworks contractor, also runs an operator training business. It is for this division that the new machine, supplied by dealer TC Harrison JCB, will be deployed.
Mark Kay, K-Plant Hire owner, said, “The beauty of the backhoe loader is that it is so versatile. There is nothing on a site that you can’t do with them. They do everything our customers want and all the operators love them. They have plenty of power, they’re comfortable, the durability is excellent. It’s simply a great all-round machine so we feel it is really important that operators entering the industry develop the skills to operate them, including the servo controls, and can truly maximise their potential.
“We were delighted to secure one of these limited-edition models as it stands out from the crowd and gives us something rare and different in the fleet. The machine definitely looks the part when training and gives us a high specification machine that is perfect to get the youngsters trained up on.”
The platinum-edition model features servo excavator controls, Powerslide, air conditioning and bi-directional auxiliary flow hydraulics. The machine bears limited-edition platinum decals with a grille badge and platinum-coloured wheels. In the cab there is an embroidered graphic in the carpet and upgraded seat material with 70th anniversary branding, along with a steering wheel centre cap featuring the 70th logo.
