It is remarkable that it is now 70 years since the first JCB backhoe was launched into an unsuspecting world.
The machine has become a mainstay of the construction and agricultural sectors worldwide. To date, more than 900,000 units have been sold.
The concept dates back to the early 1950s when Joseph Cyril Bamford (JCB) produced a purpose-built front loader for the popular Fordson Major tractor. In 1953, he combined this with a rear-mounted digging arm to create what we now know as the JCB. However, at that stage it was still an adaptation of a tractor rather than a purpose-built machine.
The backhoe element was based on a design Bamford had brought over from Norway, although there is little record of how it was used in that country. When it actually became a purpose-built machine continues to be debated, notably by one of JCB’s competitors who produced their own version in 1957.
The JCB Hydra-Digga of the same year certainly marked a turning point in having a purpose-built cab but still built around a Fordson. Ten years after the original machine, the arrival of the iconic 3C model certainly put JCB on the map. This revolutionized the construction sector, in particular, becoming the grandfather of today’s ranges.
The JCB Hydra-Digga of the same year certainly marked a turning point in having a purpose-built cab but still built around a Fordson. Ten years after the original machine, the arrival of the iconic 3C model certainly put JCB on the map. This revolutionized the construction sector, in particular, becoming the grandfather of today’s ranges.
Since then, the design has been applied to larger and smaller models. The addition of a driven front axle to the wide range of models has added versatility and durability.
JCB’s Rocester production facility in Staffordshire remains the company’s production and headquarters, where the millionth JCB is expected to arrive very soon.
To celebrate this milestone, the company has committed to producing 70 Platinum 3CX models and four 4CX loaders for sale worldwide. Platinum Edition models will include servo excavator controls, Powerslide, air conditioning and two-way auxiliary flow hydraulics. These machines will sport limited-edition platinum decals and platinum-colored grille and wheel badges. Inside the cabin, there will be an embroidered graphic on the carpet and upgraded seat material with 70th anniversary branding. The center cover of the flywheel will carry the 70 logo and each machine will carry a commemorative plaque. Customers will also receive a special platinum gift package with the backhoe.
However, the biggest recognition of all is that JCB has now become the generic term for a backhoe. Just as Hoover became the name for vacuum cleaners and GPS has become the name for satellite navigation systems, a remarkable achievement in itself.
