JCB's first rotary telescopic handler is now available

The British manufacturer pioneered this machine concept in 1977 and managed to sell huge numbers over the years, both within the construction and agricultural sectors. Where JCB is extremely successful with the rigid variants, a rotary telescopic handler was invariably missing from the program.

Until now, because the first 555-210R has now arrived in the Netherlands and should also put the manufacturer on the map in this important niche market. For a long time JCB saw no bread in this concept, but the persistent demand from dealers and customers steadily changed this picture. In 1998, 2012 and 2015, a trial balloon was carefully launched internally in the form of a few prototypes (working or not). In 2019, the very first JCB rotary telescopic handler was unveiled at the Rocester plant, and two years later everything is in readiness to storm the market. Another 26-meter variant will follow soon

ICON IN RENTAL

As befits the English manufacturer, the wishes of users have been listened to carefully. This translates into a thoughtful design that is sufficiently distinctive. "The starting point was that the 555-210R had to be simple to operate, for example by using clear icons in the instrument panel," explains Gregor Grootjans, Product Specialist for JCB in the Netherlands and Belgium. "With this, we expect to attract high marks within the rental industry. Several rental companies have already tested the machine with their customers, noting that none of them required additional explanations about the use of
the machine."

Thanks to 360° rotation combined with 21-meter boom length and 5.5-ton lifting capacity, the new telehandler offers 24-hour versatility, productivity, efficiency and safety. The machine can be equipped with numerous attachments to be used for loading, lifting or aerial work. Grootjans: "The 555-210R is equipped with a Clearview quick coupler that recognizes the attachments itself and adjusts the parameters accordingly. The operator only has to confirm this. In terms of safety, JCB is raising the bar yet again. Think load torque safety, adjustable limitation in terms of height, flight or swing, automatic leveling in just 27 seconds and step-up capabilities on all sides of the machine."

COMPACTLY BUILT

JCB's rotary telescopic handler features a relatively compact upper structure with a comfortable cab. Via buttons on the joysticks, which move with the seat, the operator can select five profiles in terms of working speed. Need a little more speed? Then all it takes is one push of a button. Simplicity at its best. The 555-210R features a 4.8-liter JCB EcoMAX diesel engine with 108 kW (145 hp) of power. The four-piece telescopic arm is robustly built for maximum performance up to 20.5 meters elevator height. Piping through the mast and two lifting cylinders next to the boom ensure perfect visibility from the cab. Options on the options list include boom suspension, wireless remote control and a trailer hitch.