JCB has extended its 7000 Fastrac range with the 7270, which puts out 260hp and maxes at 270hp using the same 6.7-litre Cummins engine. Now the flagship of the range, the 7270 delivers 990Nm of torque (rather than the 949Nm offered by the 7230) and uses the same self-levelling suspension.

Not designed to tread on the 8250’s toes (which is rated at 280hp), the 7270 demands a £5500 premium over the 7230, and the 7000 is in full production.

JCB reported a record year in terms of sales for 2008, up 14% in its sixth consecutive year of growth.

“Sales grew in both existing and emerging markets,” according to Richard Fox-Marrs, MD of JCB Agriculture. Russia’s market grew by 150% (a mix of both telehandlers and tractors), Italy 75% (surprisingly mostly telehandlers) and Germany by 30% (again led by telehandler sales). UK and France, JCB’s longest running markets, grew by 15%.
 
This year, there are more modest market expectations, but JCB believe to be in a better position than most, says Mr Fox-Marrs.

The company also unveiled two up-rated telehandlers. The 526-56 Agri Plus now gains a 114hp Dieselmax engine with powershift transmission as standard along with a single lever oil pilot servo joystick which incorporates forward, neutral and reverse. The 526-56 Agri Plus retails at £47,000.

The 531-70 is JCB’s most popular telehandler, and the Agri Xtra now tops the range. Standard are all the optional extras available on the Agri, Plus and Super models, including a larger pump of 140litres/min alongside larger diameter pipe work which speeds cycle times up by 20%. Retail price of the 531-70 is £60,050.