JCB launch puts skids steers and compacts on Middle East track
Demand for skid steers and compacts growing in the Middle East after years of underutilisation
CMME saw the 155 at its recent visit to JCB’s HQ
JCB has launched 17 new skid steers and track loaders as it hopes to capitalise on burgeoning demand for the models in the Middle East.
Skid steers and compact loaders have been a mainstay in North America since arriving on the scene in the 1980s but only experienced moderate growth in the markets such as the Middle East where a traditional preference for large machinery has left dealers and rentals reluctant to push them.
The post-downturn has seen a shift in buying habits in the region, and coupled with a growing list of attachments from OEMs such as Caterpillar and Bobcat, there could be an opening for machinery that can multitask on urban developments.
“While the majority of these machines are sold in North America, international demand for smaller skid steers and track loaders is growing at a fast pace, particularly in the Middle East and Europe. The new range of machines is particularly well-suited to Middle Eastern markets and we expect demand for this product to be very high,” explained Nic Grout, JCB Middle East’s general manager.
According to JCB, the new machines include nine large platform models: the 225, 260, 280, 300 and 330 wheeled skid steers and the 225T, 260T, 300T and 320T track loaders. The 260 and up use a vertical lift version of the JCB Powerboom single arm, providing maximum reach at full height while the 225 and 225T are radial lift and provide maximum reach at the mid-point of the lifting path.
The range also includes 8 small platform models: the 175, 190, 205 skid steers and the 190T and 205T compact track loaders, which are vertical lift machines. They are complemented by the 135, 155, and 150T models, which feature a radial lift design, which offers improved digging.
Grout added: “We offer 17 models in our skid steer range – both wheeled and tracked with radial and vertical lift designs – providing 97 per cent global market coverage.”
JCB claims the machines are 16% more fuel efficient than rival models and will save customers around $2,700 annually.
