JCB debuts all-electric telehandler

JCB has introduced its first all-electric telehandler, the 505-20E. Based off JCB’s diesel version, the 505-20E features the same maximum lifting capacity (5,500 pounds) as its diesel-powered sibling.

The 505-20E uses two electric motors, one for the driveline and the second to power the hydraulic system. The 23 hp (17kW) traction motor drives through a permanent four-wheel drive dropbox to JCB drive/steer axles. The 30hp (22kW) hydraulic system motor powers a fixed displacement gear pump, delivering a maximum 21 gal/min (80 l/min) of flow.

Flow is proportional to joystick position and the lift end is controlled by an electro-hydraulic valve block, with hydraulic regeneration on boom function.

JCB analyzed customer duty cycles via its LiveLink telematics system, as well through on-site studies, tests and evaluations. JCB said the The 505-20E’s 96V Lithium-ion battery is capable of providing full-shift operation.

The traction drive motor utilizes regenerative braking, instead of a traditional braking system, topping up the battery in the process. The hydraulic system also regenerates flow while lowering the boom, reducing the power requirement and extending operating hours. The brake regen function automatically turns off when the battery is fully charged.

The machine has a 240V, 16A on-board charger capable of recharging the battery in 8-10 hours. An optional JCB Universal Charger can be used for a rapid top-up during breaks, in as little as 60 minutes.

JCB said the 505-20E has been designed to meet the current and future needs of customers in a variety of industry sectors, providing zero-emissions operation for working inside buildings, in underground construction and maintenance work, shipping ports, on environmentally friendly sites, around hazardous materials, and in urban areas with stringent emissions regulations.

The 505-20E delivers an in-cab noise level of just 66.7dB, while the external level is 92.2dB. A white noise reversing alarm is available as an option, to warn site workers of machine movement.

The unit’s external dimensions also remain the same as the diesel version, with 12 feet, 1 inch (3.7m) of outside turn radius and an overall height of 6 feet, 2 inches (1.89m). The machine has been designed to deliver similar cycle times as the diesel telescopic, with no loss of performance. It can be used with forks, a range of buckets and many other JCB Loadall attachments.

“JCB has taken a pioneering lead in the move to electric propulsion in construction, agricultural and industrial machinery, having successfully introduced the 19C-1E mini excavator and the 66-40E Teletruk to the market,” said JCB Chief Innovation Officer Tim Burnhope. “As world market leader for telescopic handlers, the launch of the JCB 505-20E Loadall takes equipment electrification further into general construction, industrial and agricultural markets, offering a zero-emissions material handling solution with no compromise in performance or productivity. We are very excited about the prospects for this machine.”

The 505-20E is planned to be available in Q2 of 2021 for customers in North America.