At an event at its impressive world HQ in February, JCB announced a pair of new mini-excavators not only designed to make like easier on site; but also to add a valuable string to the bow of rental firms.
JCB’s world headquarters in Rocester, Staffs sits above the village like a giant space ship; and its approach to product launches can be stellar too. February’s event was to announce an expansion of its range of compact excavator (CE) ranges, with the launch of two 2.5-tonne platform machines.
The introductions were inspired by the company recognising it had a product gap in this important category. In 2022, the market for CEs was 216,000 machines – just under 60% of which (129,000) were 1-4 tonnes. Of these, 35,000 are 2 – 3 tonnes, of which the UK takes 25%.
JCB had nothing at around 2.5 tonnes, hence the introduction of the 25Z-1 – a zero tailswing model that replaces the previous 8025 ZTS – and the 26C-1, conventional counterweight replacement for the 8026 CTS.
The 25Z-1 tips the scales at 2,550kg, while the 26C-1 weighs in at 2,675kg. With an overall width of just 1,500mm, either can be towed behind a van or a 4×4 on a 3.5-tonne trailer, making it easy to move the excavators between job sites. They are equipped with nine tie-down points, for secure transportation without chains or straps cutting into rubber tracks.
Despite their compact dimensions, the 25Z-1 has an impressive maximum digging depth of 2,824mm, while the conventional tailswing 26C-1 offers up to 3,037mm of excavating capability.
Key features include EU Stage V engines available, re-designed cab for operator comfort, improved dig-end geometry with 500-hour greasing intervals and electro-proportional auxiliary, swing and dozer controls.
The machines benefit from an improved operator environment, with a premium suspension seat, an ergonomic membrane switch layout, a 4” digital multi-function screen and a rotary controller. The screen displays engine rpm, coolant temperature and fuel gauge on the left-hand side at all times, while additional information can be customised by the operator to the right of the screen.
The two CEs are supplied with an EU Stage V/ Tier 4 Final compliant Kohler diesel, which develops 18.4kW (24.7hp). The engine meets both emissions protocols without the need for a diesel particulate filter (DPF) or any form of exhaust after-treatment.
Both CEs feature additional safety features, such as the company’s 2GO hydraulic isolation system, that requires the operator to press a secondary switch before the controls become active. All hydraulic services are disabled when the left-hand servo pod is raised. The CEs are equipped with an immobiliser, with the option of a key or a keypad activation, with the possibility of up to 14 codes, for multiple users and rental companies.
The LiveLink telematic monitoring system is offered as an option, providing machine location, health and operating data remotely.
