JCB expects strong growth in African market

JCB expects the African construction equipment market to grow +50% by 2017, according to managing director of sales Ian Sayers.

Speaking during the inaugural Bauma Africa exhibition in Johannesburg, South Africa, Mr Sayers said, “Demand in Africa has more than doubled since 2005 to 22,000 machines for the 12 months to June this year. JCB is spreading out throughout the continent, not just South Africa. We currently have 24 dealers across Africa and are looking for new opportunities.”

JCB showcased a raft of new machines at the exhibition, including the 20 tonne JS205 excavator. The machine replaces the JS200HD and will be sold throughout Africa, India and Asia. Powered by a 104 kW Cummins six-cylinder engine and featuring redesigned hydraulics, JCB claims the machine boasts fuel savings of up to 10% compared to the previous model.

Other new models for the African market were also unveiled, including the 5CX backhoe loader, the 4 m³ bucket capacity 461 wheeled loader and the 36 tonne JS360 excavator.