JCB has celebrated a major machine milestone with the production of its one millionth Backhoe Loader.
The first JCB Backhoe rolled off the production line in Rocester, Staffordshire in 1953. Called the Mark One, it brought the new wonder of hydraulic power to construction equipment for the first time.
In the first full year of production in 1954 just 35 of the machines were built and it took more than 20 years for the first 50,000 to be made. It took 59 years for the first half million JCB Backhoes to be manufactured – but less than 13 years for the next half million to be produced, culminating in today’s celebrations.
JCB now manufactures Backhoe Loaders in the UK, India, Brazil and it remains one of the most versatile and productive machines in the world.
Despite the maturity of the versatile Backhoe Loader, it is still one of the biggest selling pieces of construction machinery and it remains the world’s 4th most popular machine in the construction equipment sales league table.
JCB has always invested heavily in its Backhoe Loader range and an early catalyst for growth was in 1980 which saw the £24 million launch of the technologically advanced 3CX. Customers then went on to reap the fuel saving benefits of the launch of JCB Backhoes powered by the JCB Dieselmax, a development which saves up to 11% in fuel costs. Today’s 3CX Pro is the fastest Backhoe Loader in the world, capable of speeds up to 50kph, reducing travel time between sites.
As well as Backhoes, JCB also manufactures Loadall telescopic handers, tracked and wheeled excavators, wheeled loading shovels, mini and micro excavators, skid steer loaders, track loaders, compaction equipment, rough terrain forklifts and Fastrac tractors.
The one millionth JCB Backhoe to be produced was a 4CX model, which has been decorated in graffiti art by London-based artist and illustrator Dave Smith, and presented to Lord Bamford at today’s celebrations.
