JCB's new TM320S Agri articulated telehandler is a cross between a wheel loader and its namesake, with exceptionally manoeuvrability to allow loads to be placed with greater precision, even in tight or tricky locations.

"The TM320S combines the compact manoeuvrability of a wheel loader, with the exceptional lift height of a telescopic boom. Its articulated steering and side shift functions allow for true precision in spot loading," JCB product manager Greg Sealey said.

"Because it's so highly manoeuvrable, the TM320S is especially suited to ag tasks like grain handling, as it can easily get in and out of storage and around obstacles.

"It has controls like a wheel loader, all at the operator's fingertips, so navigating tricky spaces is very simple."

The TM320S is powered by a 108 kilowatt super-efficient JCB EcoMAX engine, with high torque at low revs for reduced fuel consumption.

Its oscillating centre joint and permanent four-wheel-drive give reliable performance in any conditions, while the six-speed JCB Powershift transmission delivers high efficiency and productivity.

"The TM320S has a forward reach of three metres, a lift capacity of 3.2 tonnes and a lift height of 5.2 metres," Mr Sealey said.

"What that means is exceptional productivity across a big range of agricultural tasks."

He said JCB was the biggest supplier of telehandlers to agriculture in Australia, across operations ranging from dairy to broadacre to cotton.

"Telehandlers are useful for a wide range of on-farm jobs including loading trucks, stacking bales, grading roads, feeding out stock and much more. The return on investment is very strong," Mr Sealey said.

The TM320S has been built for ease of use and all-day comfort. It has an on-screen display of hydraulic flow rate, which can be adjusted on the go, and a variable speed cooling fan to reduce noise. The instrument cluster is designed for intuitive use even by inexperienced operators.

The model offers the option of two boom auxiliaries with in-cab changeover switch, and standard in-cab quickhitch pin isolation.

"Serviceability has also been built into the design," Mr Sealey said.

_TM320S SPECIFICATIONS _

Operating Weight *8000kg (17,637lb)

Lift capacity *3200kg (7055lb)

Lift height *5200mm (17ft, 1in)

Forward reach *2950mm (9ft, 7in)

Maximum hydraulic flow *140l/min