The JCB 403E is carrying all before it
Compact wheel loaders have generally been a more common site on continental construction projects, but the UK market is growing. Commonly associated with buckets they can equally accommodate forks for palletised loads making the something of a multi-tasker in materials handling.
The JCB portfolio consists of the 403 and its battery electric counterpart the 403E, part of the rapidly expanding E-Tech range. Whether you choose diesel or electric, both these machines can be towed with a 3 ½ tonne rated van or pick up, and a decent payload, lift capacity and travel speed makes them an efficient companion on site.
First introduced in May of 2023, the 403E 20kWh battery pack is the same unit used on its 19C–1E 1.9tonne electric mini digger. That’s a machine that’s been around five years now, so the powertrain represents proven technology. Indeed, JCB doesn’t intend to compromise on performance with any of its E-Tech solutions.
That’s why careful thought has been put into how a diesel compact wheel loader is typically used on site. It is here that the Staffordshire firm’s LiveLink technology was an ally. But analysing data from that telematics system it was apparent that, even on the busiest sites, a diesel wheel loader is typically used for 3-4 hours.
Armed with that information they set about designing a machine that can exceed those parameters. A battery with decent run time needs a charging system to back it up and JCB has that as well. There’s an 8-hour charge available from 230V, or a 415V Universal Fast Charger that will get you from 10-80% in 2-hours. For a builder or landscaper, the peace of mind of knowing you can fully charge overnight will be essential to making the most of the equipment.
All of the usual benefits of running an electric machine apply here. There’s less noise and vibration. Zero emissions means it can be utilised indoors, or in other sensitive locations. It’s very smooth and responsive for an operator and, with an inherently reduced level of moving parts compared to its internal combustion engine sibling, you’ll make savings in maintenance and parts. In addition, electric charging is cheaper than diesel.
Whilst compact and manoeuvrable the 403E payload comes in at a muscular 618kg, with a shovel capacity of 0.5m3 . There’s a 20kph travel speed, and plenty of traction on muddy ground. Added to all that is some clever features, particularly inside the ROPS/FOPS cab. A well heated space makes for a more pleasant environment for an operator but, on a lithium-ion powered machine, that can be a detriment to battery capacity and run time. On the 403E, however, the driver can enjoy a heated seat, front and rear screens for demist and defrost, and a three speed heater with blast function, all of which should keep the occupier in comfort without unduly draining the battery.
That’s because the 403E can be preconditioned before you start work. Here, the heater can be activated whilst the machine is still charging. Importantly, because that can only be done during charging, it will have no effect of the battery power.
The 403 was already a very good machine in its class and its lithium-ion twin will only enhance that reputation. The 403E has all the performance of a diesel but with the electric benefits that end users are now starting to appreciate.
For further information on the JCB Compact Wheeled Loader range visit JCB Wheel Loaders | Bucket Capacity 0.4m³ to 3.5m³ | JCB.com.
