The Malcolm Group has taken delivery of 29 new JCB machines – including the first Stage V 457 wheeled loading shovel in Scotland.
The Linwood-based logistics and construction services specialist has purchased the JCB 457 along with a fleet of other JCB models – which are all now working following the Covid-19 lockdown. As well as the JCB 457, the latest additions to the Malcolm Group fleet include 131X and 220X tracked excavators, backhoe loader, Teletruk, Loadall telescopic handler and wheeled excavator models.
Supplied by dealer Scot JCB, the new Stage V 457 will be used on a range of site works including housing, industrial, school construction, various Scottish Water projects and ongoing windfarm builds. The model has been updated to meet the upcoming EU Stage V emissions legislation. The move from the previous MTU engine to Cummins brings an increase in overall engine power, from 192kW (258hp) to 210kW (282hp).
The purchase of the 13 tonne 131X Series models marks one of the single largest orders for the new machine since it was launched last year. The JCB 131X is aimed squarely at ground working specialists and is designed to be more productive, durable, quieter, more comfortable and easier to use than its predecessors.
Malcolm Group Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Malcolm, said: “We choose JCB machines because of the fuel efficiency which reduces the operating costs for not only us as a hirer but also benefits our customers in reducing their site costs.
“We have operated many JCB 13-tonne excavators and 457 wheeled loading shovels over the years and found them perfectly suited for a range of site purposes. Enhanced operator comfort, vision and smoothness of operation are the standout features of these new machines. The 457 has been able to continue working during Covid-19 restrictions and the rest of the new machines have now returned to their projects following lockdown.
“Our service from Scot JCB has always been first class. They provide extensive coverage, and back-up across Scotland with an excellent parts service. They understand our requirements and are always striving to excel in their service. As a provider of hired machines this ensures our customers’ needs are met and contributes to the smooth running of a hire fleet.
“JCB LiveLink is also an excellent tool. Not only does it provide up-to-date machine hours to enable regular servicing to be maintained, it also provides all machine usage and idling details to enable the management team to monitor the operatives’ use of the machine and helps ongoing training to be provided to raise the standards of the operator.”
The new JCB Stage V 457 wheeled loader benefits from a number of new features including a 9% more powerful and efficient Stage V Cummins engine and a new fuel saving auto engine-shutdown feature. 5-speed transmission is fitted as standard, and there are two new power modes for greater versatility.