The new 515-40 Miniscopic model is 1.8m high, 2.97m long and weighs less than 3.5 tonnes. Delivering powerful performance despite these compact dimensions, the Miniscopic will bring the benefits of JCB’s market-leading Loadall range to previously inaccessible construction and industrial applications.

At the heart of the JCB Miniscopic is an innovative, patented chassis design. To achieve the lowest possible working height, JCB has challenged conventional design concepts to develop this unique, off-set, single-spine chassis with the machine’s cab then occupying the resulting space.

As a result, the Miniscopic boasts a spacious operator environment, with easy access, yet the overall height of the machine is reduced to less than two metres - a barrier which has previously prevented compact telescopic handlers performing in many otherwise suitable applications.

Targeting general building contractors, builders’ merchants and plant hirers, the versatile new model is able to perform many of the on-site tasks which may have previously required several different machines. The Miniscopic has been purpose built to improve productivity for the construction sector – using different attachments to handle a range of materials such as aggregates and palletised loads.

Designed for efficient manoeuvrability in the restricted spaces and difficult ground conditions often found on construction sites, the Miniscopic features 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel steering and a hydrostatic transmission. Powered by a 50hp Deutz engine, the JCB model can handle a 1500kg payload at a 4-metre lift height. For added versatility it can be specified with a compact Loadall or skid steer Quickhitch, opening up a vast range of compatible attachments. This extra functionality, combined with ease of operation makes the Miniscopic highly attractive to plant hirers.

The JCB Miniscopic is ideally suited to applications where the working area is restricted - such as city centre developments. Not only do its compact dimensions facilitate access to sites but its tight turning circle, with 4-wheel steer, results in excellent manoeuvrability for productive performance in confined working environments. The machine can access areas traditional alternatives cannot, including the ability to operate inside buildings and containers or to be lifted above ground level for work in high-rise situations.

In builders’ merchants and other industrial working environments, added productivity over conventional forklifts is afforded by the forward reach of the Miniscopic which means that pallets can be lifted and placed in front of other pallets. The result is less movements and greater use of storage space. The JCB Miniscopic’s 4-wheel drive and lightweight construction also provide better performance, flotation and stability on rough, soft or uneven ground conditions.

The compact dimensions have not been achieved by sacrificing comfort as the Miniscopic boasts a spacious cab which features air-conditioning and a deluxe suspension seat. Low noise levels and both ROPS and FOPS conformity provide additional health and safety benefits and access to the cab is made easy by a low level step. There is also an automatic eye-level audio-visual load moment indicator warning system which continuously monitors the machine’s forward stability.