JCB packs in power with its new mini telehandler

JCB's new Loadall 515-40 Miniscopic telehandler is just 1.8 m high, but it is, said Rob White JCB's product marketing manager, "Power to weight the strongest telehandler JCB makes." The Minscopic weighs 3480 kg (7672 lb) and can lift 1.5 t at full height of over 4m (13 ft 3 in).

With a 2 m outreach the 515-40 Miniscopic can still lift 1000 kg so it can easily load or unload a lorry or truck from one side where access is restricted. At its full reach of 2.54 m (8 ft 2 in) it can manage 750 kg (1653 lb).

The overall dimensions of the new machine are 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in) high; 1.56 m (5ft 1in) wide and 3.23 m (10 ft 7in) in length to the front of the carriage. The 515-40 has four-wheel drive, four-wheel steer and a 2,8 m turning circle. The combination of these features makes it suitable for work sites with restricted access and indoor applications.

Despite the compact dimensions the 515-40 Miniscopic has been designed with a comfortable and spacious cab, which is easy to climb in and out of. JCB has achieved this by developing a single-spine, off-set chassis in a C-shape which has made it possible to have a full size cab on a compact machine.

From the cab visibility has been made a priority, allowing the operator a clear view all round the machine means he can exploit the machine's manoeuvrability to the full.

Designed originally with the construction market in mind JCB has subsequently recognised that the small compact machine has huge potential in agricultural and horticultural markets.

The Loadall 515-40 Miniscopic will be manufactured, not at the Rocester plant with the other Loadalls, but in Cheadle because the machine has more parts in common with the tele-trucks and skid-steers manufactured at that facility.

The Miniscopic will have its official worldwide launch at Bauma in March of next year.

Read more about the Miniscopic in Access International's November/December issue.