H. E. Services Throws Down Gauntlet To JCB

H. E. Services (Plant Hire) Ltd has thrown down the gauntlet to the British Digger Manufacturer JCB. By seeking to break their world record just set for the “Fastest Digger on Earth” in Australia.

The new world record was set in a customised JCB GT Backhoe Loader, driven by Matthew Lucas. By achieving a speed of 72.59mph, at Bathurst Airport, New South Wales, Australia on 21 October 2014. The JCB GT is specifically manufactured for show and record attempts, and notably, it cannot dig!

About the event

H. E. Services are extending the challenge to JCB. By attempting to beat the new record in their legendary, double record-breaking JCB LANDSHUTTLE. Which still holds the record for the fastest time from John O’Groats to Land’s End in a Digger. It was set in May 1997 when it was followed all the way by a BBC Record Breakers film crew who produced a full program on the event.

The Silver LANDSHUTTLE normally leads The Diggerland Dancing Diggers, appearing at major County Shows in the Summer. However in Spring 2015 the LANDSHUTTLE will once again take to the roads. With the record-holding Chairman of H. E. Services, Hugh Edeleanu, behind the wheel. In an attempt to reach a speed of at least 73mph in an 8 ½ tonne real backhoe digger!

The H. E. Services team of expert engineers are already at work preparing the LANDSHUTTLE for the attempt.  Additionally, efforts are underway to find a suitable test track for test runs and the record attempt itself.

The LANDSHUTTLE is a fully road legal JCB 3CX and may attempt the record on the public highway. Though the sight of a Backhoe Loader reaching speeds of over 70mph on any UK road would probably attract the attention of the authorities. Although they might not be able to catch it!

A date for the challenge has not yet been set but it is expected to be in the Spring of 2015.

History of the JCB 3CX

The JCB 3CX is a legendary backhoe loader that has played a significant role in the construction and earthmoving industry since its introduction in 1980. Developed by the British manufacturer JCB, the 3CX was designed to combine the capabilities of a wheel loader and an excavator into a single versatile machine. Over the decades, the JCB 3CX has gone through numerous advancements and improvements, with each model incorporating innovative features and technology to enhance its performance, productivity, and operator comfort. Today, it remains one of the most popular and widely used backhoe loaders in the world, serving a vital role on construction sites, agriculture, and infrastructure projects, embodying the JCB legacy of engineering excellence and innovation.

If you’re looking to hire a JCB 3CX, view our plant fleet today.

All information correct as of: 28th November 2014.