JCB is expanding its telescopic lift-truck range, with the first electric model unveiled this week.
Launched at an event attended by iVT at the firm’s Uttoxeter, England headquarters, the 30-19E Teletruk has been developed to meet the challenges of both indoor and outdoor applications.
Until now, the Teletruks have been powered by either diesel or LPG, and largely used in outdoors settings, but the new model is equipped with an 80V lead-acid battery capable of providing eight hours of operation on a single charge and producing zero emissions.
JCB states that the battery can be swapped within two minutes, while its storage is fully sealed to ensure it is safe in wet and rainy conditions.
Capable of carrying 1,600kg when the telescopic boom is extended 3m (10ft) in the forward reach position, the vehicle can also handle gradients of 21% on ramps.
JCB’s chief innovation officer, Tim Burnhope, said, “We believe the 30-19E will offer a new generation of customers and operators unparalleled cost- and space-saving advantages in logistics and material handling sectors because of its zero emissions efficiency, space-saving productivity and outstanding visibility, but most of all because of its reach – something no other forklift manufacturer can offer.
“We are hugely excited at the opportunities presented with the launch of an electric-powered Teletruk because it opens up so many new markets for us.”
Originally launched in 1997, a factor in the telescopic lift-truck’s success is that it offers operators the added benefit of forward-reach thanks to its telescopic boom.
