Magic million for JCB

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Magic million for JCB: JCB has marked a major manufacturing milestone with the production of its one millionth engine.

Production started in 2004 at JCB Power Systems in Foston, Derbyshire, and expanded to JCB India in 2010 with the opening of a dedicated plant in Ballabgarh, Delhi. From three engines a day 20 years ago, JCB now produces around 500 a day, becoming a world leader in the design, development and manufacture of diesel engines and is now pioneering development of hydrogen combustion engines.

Magic million for JCB

Magic million for JCB

Today JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford paid tribute to the JCB teams around the world who have played a part in the engine’s success. Lord Bamford said: “To have made one million engines in 20 years is quite some achievement. This really is a significant moment for our teams around the world, a real achievement. The JCB engine is very well respected around the world for its reliability and very well appreciated by our customers. JCB machines work in dirt and hot and cold climates, and from the moment they go to a customer, they are working hard and doing a full day’s shift. The engine really is the beating heart of that reputation for reliability.

“It was a major decision at the time to make our own engines and I was directly involved in that; it has paid off and I’m very pleased we made the decision. As we hit the milestone of producing one million engines, the time is right to acknowledge the part my played father in the design, not only of this engine, but other engines which he designed with other people in the past. My father died in 2001 so our engines were running as prototypes by that time, and he had a lot to do with it. I’m thankful he was involved in this engine so many years ago.”

JCB Power Systems’ engines have been instrumental in helping set world records – firstly when the JCB Dieselmax streamliner, powered by two JCB engines, became the fastest diesel-powered car in the world in 2006 when it reached a speed of 350.092mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats, USA – a record that still stands. In 2019, JCB’s Fastrac tractor stormed into the record books as the world’s fastest tractor with a speed of 135.191 mph – thanks to JCB’s 7.2 litre, 6-cylinder Dieselmax engine.

A team of more than 150 engineers is currently engaged in developing hi-tech hydrogen combustion engines for use in JCB machinery as part of a £100 million investment. More than 120 engines have come off the production line so far and many machines powered by these super-efficient engines are currently undergoing evaluation.

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Hampden Park chooses Toro lithium machines

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Hampden Park chooses Toro lithium machines: Electric mowing has arrived at Hampden Park, Scotland’s national stadium, bringing everything Stephen Bache, Head Groundsman, could want from the next generation of turfcare technology.

It was a case of when not if this new way of mowing would arrive at Scotland’s national stadium in Glasgow, and as a long-term Toro machinery and irrigation customer, it’s no surprise the brand trusted to deliver the cutting-edge technology is Toro.

Reducing emissions is a key part of almost all sustainability strategies and with the industry being encouraged to unite in a bid to reduce environmental impact, choosing battery-powered or hybrid machines is one small but significant step now that can result in a huge impact later.

The Toro Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370 lithium-ion battery powered ride-on greensmower is the quietest mower there is and there are no emissions, pollution, or hydraulic leaks. Stephen says: “We want to provide the best possible surface for our players in the most sustainable way, but also, we are keen to play our part in the collective effort to make a credible contribution to the sustainable future for the next generations of football players and fans.

“This latest machinery order sees us continue doing that as we welcome battery powered mowers to our stadium for the first time and that is quite a milestone, but to us it was simply the next logical step and I hope we pave the way for others by demonstrating the capabilities and benefits electric mowing brings to responsible pitch management.”

Despite its new status at the stadium, the benefits are already being widely noticed says Stephen: “Toro quality is second to none. I’ve relied on it for 20 years. I know with Toro we’re going to get everything done right, meet the UEFA standards and conform to the rules reliably, first time around. So, I expected the quality of the cut from the eTriFlex to be outstanding and it is, but what’s stands out is just how convenient this method of mowing is.

“We’re an urban site southside of Glasgow with flats and houses neighbouring the stadium. Residents have been known to complain about mowing noise. The quietness of the eTriFlex almost takes you by surprise, a bit like an electric car when you don’t hear it coming up behind you, you genuinely can’t believe how quiet it is.”

Continuing with the benefits of noiseless mowing, Stephen can confirm how much easier it makes time management on match days: “There’s no rush with filming, interviews and broadcaster set up now, they can take as long as they need, and we work around them if needs be.”

Next up, Stephen can alleviate infrastructure concerns: “It wasn’t a problem for us and unless you’re buying a fleet of them, I can’t imagine it would be for anyone else. They use a standard socket and charge overnight, it’s very straightforward.”

The eTriFlex 3370 is part of a wider order from Toro distributor Reesink Scotland that includes electric utility vehicles, pedestrian mowers, a sprayer and the ProStripe known for its famous sports pitch striping effect.

With Stephen’s term in post at Hampden Park stretching back to 2002, he’s overseen many changes to the famous turf and now he’s presiding over a new era of new technology and mowing practises, and one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.

To make a start on the journey towards reduced emissions, visit Reesink Turfcare at reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

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Toro leads the charge to OPE electrification

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Toro leads the charge to OPE electrification: Drawing on a century of expertise and engineering excellence, Toro has launched the Revolution Series, combining the brand’s proven outdoor power equipment (OPE) expertise with pioneering battery technology.

Aimed at groundskeeping, facilities maintenance, gardening and landscaping professionals, as well as municipal authorities, Toro’s Revolution Series delivers a more sustainable product with like-for-like performance with equivalent petrol or diesel machines.

With other significant benefits to the end user – including less direct exposure to carbon dioxide emissions and reduced noise and vibration – Toro has also launched a campaign promoting the benefits of switching to battery-powered outdoor equipment, called ‘Lead the Charge’.

Anthony Nadalin, director of marketing at The Toro Company said: “As one of the world’s leading manufacturers, we have a responsibility to drive decarbonisation in outdoor power equipment. For Toro, this means leading the charge from the front. We are a passionate advocate for this change and through our extensive range of electric-powered equipment, our focus is to meet the growing demands of outdoor maintenance professionals.”

As a global leader in outdoor power equipment, Toro’s ‘Lead the Charge’ campaign also helps highlight the savings that can be made by switching to all-electric OPE, as well as providing clear and accurate information about pricing and performance.

Lead the Charge aims to help owners and operators of commercial OPE to understand exactly what all-electric OPE can now achieve in terms of performance, sustainability and cost savings.

“By presenting all the information in a factual and user-friendly way, we can help landscaping professionals and municipal authorities to make truly informed decisions,” added Anthony. “Our customers have trusted us for over 100 years and our latest campaign, Lead the Charge, is about Toro repaying that trust by giving them the confidence to transition to cleaner, more cost-effective outdoor power equipment.”

The Revolution Series is easy to maintain and cost-effective to run, lowering the total cost of ownership while contributing to greater business efficiency. For further details, visit https://sites.Toro.com/leadthecharge/index.html.

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Origin wins at Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards

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Origin wins at Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards: Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) proudly announces its success at the prestigious Pro Landscaper Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards 2024, held on 15th October during the FutureScape event.

OAS won the Sustainable Product (Soft Landscaping) of the Year award for its innovative Carbon4Grass range of grass seed, a product designed to help tackle the dual challenges of environmental sustainability and high-performance landscaping.

Origin wins at Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards

Origin wins at Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards

The Pro Landscaper Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards celebrate excellence across the landscape industry, recognising companies and products that lead the way in sustainability, biodiversity enhancement, and environmental innovation. This year’s ceremony brought together key stakeholders, professionals, and sustainability advocates from across the sector, making it a landmark event for the industry.

Carbon4Grass from OAS was highlighted for its significant contribution to environmental sustainability. This is a pioneering range of grass seed mixtures where each specification is specially formulated to lock carbon from the atmosphere into the soil while providing high-quality surfaces, making it an invaluable tool for those aiming to meet their carbon reduction and sustainability goals. The innovative blend of grass species promotes soil health, supports strong ecosystems, and helps reduce overall carbon footprints in both urban and rural landscapes. Carbon4Grass is tailored for use across all landscape and amenity environments, making it versatile and impactful in enhancing green spaces.

The FutureScape event, where the awards were announced, is one of the most important trade shows in the UK landscaping calendar, attracting over 200 exhibitors and thousands of visitors. The awards recognise the crucial role that sustainable products and practices offer in today’s environmentally conscious world​.

“It’s a privilege to receive this award for our Carbon4Grass range. Sustainability is a key focus at Origin Amenity Solutions, and this recognition shows that our efforts are making a tangible impact. We’re committed to developing products that enhance the health and performance of landscapes and contribute to the environment in meaningful ways. This award is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to driving positive change in the sports, amenity, and fine turf sector.”

The Carbon4Grass range was praised for its innovation in addressing the environmental challenges of modern landscaping. It provides long-term solutions to issues such as soil degradation, water retention, and carbon capture. Its sustainability-driven design supports the preservation and restoration of ecosystems, reinforcing OAS’s reputation as a leader in environmentally focused products and programmes.

The Pro Landscaper Sustainability & Biodiversity Awards continue to highlight trailblazers in the industry, spotlighting those committed to shaping a greener, more sustainable future. OAS’s achievement highlights and recognises it as a supplier committed to sustainability innovation.

For more details about the Carbon4Grass range and Origin Amenity Solutions, visit www.originamenity/com

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J & R appointed Powerland dealers

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J & R appointed Powerland dealers: BOSS ORV is pleased to announce the appointment of J & R Agricultural Engineering Ltd. as Powerland dealers. Based in the Looe area of South East Cornwall, J & R were appointed in April 2024 as dealers for the BOSS distributed Corvus Off-Road Vehicles.

The dealer has over thirty years in the industry as a tractor and machinery sales and repair business, latterly incorporating ATV and UTV sales and service. They will now add the Powerland Tachyon all-electric ATV to their line-up.

J & R appointed Powerland dealers

J & R appointed Powerland dealers

“It is a natural extension for Jonathan Philp and the J&R team to sell Powerland,” says Neil Everett, BOSS ORV’s National Sales Manager. “They will provide coverage across Cornwall and South Devon for this exciting new electric ATV.”

The Tachyon is claimed to be one of the fastest ATVs in the world. It offers all the benefits of conventional off-road utility vehicles while ensuring no damage to the environment. The manufacturer says they have the aim of inspiring more companies to fundamentally change the way they operate for a more sustainable future. The Tachyon is a fully electric (Li-ion) road-legal ATV with tractor homologation. Direct drive hub motors help the vehicle achieve up to 50hp and 210Nm of torque at each wheel. Features include a vehicle diagnostic app, 12v lighter socket, 5v USB socket and 4×4/4×2 driving modes.

“We’re very pleased to be appointed as Powerland dealers,” says J&R’s Jonathan Philp. “The Tachyon allows us to offer our customers a real environmentally friendly alternative to fuel-powered ATVs.”

For more information on Powerland you can call 01785 561046 E-mail: sales@bossorv.co.uk Web: www.bossorv.co.uk

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