JCB launches generators

24 April 2008

JCB has Entered the UK industrial generator market. It has a range of 42 models from 15 to 500 kVA, the core of which are powered by its own 444 diesel engine. It is also using Deutz, Sisu and Scania engines to span the 15 to 500 kVA power ranges.

JCB's first diesel engines rolled off its UK production line in November 2004. Although the 4,4 litre unit was developed primarily for use in its own construction and utility equipment, JCB Power Systems sales director, Richard Butler said, “Entry into the power generation market is a natural progression for JCB.”

The JCB-powered units are rated at 50, 60, 80 and 100 kVA, which the company says covers about 40% of the UK's 15000 unit, UK£ 150 million (€ 215 million) per year generator market. Generators below these rating are powered by Deutz diesels, while the 100 to 200 kVA units are fitted with Sisu engines, and Scanias can be found in the 200 to 500 kVA models.

Six of the models, rated at 27, 50, 80, 100, 130 and 200 kVA have been designed specifically with the rental market in mind. These feature a tank capable of holding 24 hours of fuel, a bunded base, pallet fork sockets and a single point lifting eye, among others. Another key feature of all the JCB range is that they come with a digital control panel as standard.

The generators will be distributed in the UK by JCB's eight construction equipment dealers, plus two newly appointed portable power specialists. The company is seeking to use the service offered by its network as a key differentiator. “A lot of customers currently have to go to an engine specialist or an alternator specialist for service, but we offer a one-stop-shop.”

Initially the generators will only be available in the UK, but wider expansion seems inevitable. Mr Butler was however cautious about the timing of this. “As a new entrant we have to establish our presence, and the best way to do that is in our home market.

”According to Mr Butler, the global market for generators above 10 kVA currently stands at 0.5 million units per year. “It's growing,” he said “The demand for power worldwide is snowballing.”

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