A quiet revolution
While some are still weighing up the switch to electric, others are already reaping the rewards.
With solar-charged vehicles, a strong environmental ethos, and decades of JCB experience behind him, Ash Landscaping had no hesitation when JCB launched the brand new 8008E CTS electric micro excavator.
With this new purchase, Ash Landscaping became the first company in the world to take delivery of the new JCB 8008E CTS – a fully electric, sub-1.0-tonne micro excavator designed for tight access jobs and emissions-sensitive sites. The brand new model which will be taken to site by electric vehicles, all powered by solar-generated energy.
Compact Size, Maximum Impact
From domestic driveways and patios to nationwide commercial planting projects, Ash Landscaping needs a machine that does it all – and fits just about anywhere.
With a retractable undercarriage, the 8008E CTS can squeeze through 700mm-wide access points. And thanks to its 9.9kWh battery, it delivers a full day’s typical work – with the same performance as the diesel 8008 CTS.
“I’ve been running JCB machines since 1996. They’re British-built, reliable and always my go-to choice. I also drive electric cars powered by solar, so this machine just made sense. The 8008E is ideal for our work, Colin explains. It’s compact enough to get through tight gateways and light enough not to compact the soil, which is critical when you’re planting trees, shrubs or turf.”
Colin Ash| Managing Director of Ash Landscaping
Cleaner, Quieter, Simpler
Electric operation brings day-to-day benefits beyond zero emissions.
Colin said: “There’s no engine noise, no fumes, and no fuel to manage. That means no spill kits, no fuel receipts, and far less paperwork when it comes to RAMS. And I can start early without disturbing anyone. It’s just a nicer way to work.”
Charging is simple too. With onboard 110V and 230V input options, the 8008E CTS can be topped up from 20–80% in just three hours using a domestic socket. Colin uses solar panels on the roof of his car port to generate energy for charging his vehicle and the new electric micro.
“With eco mode I have plenty of power and easily get a full 8-hour day’s work. I’ve not run the battery flat once,” he adds.
Right Tool, Right Time
Ash Landscaping works across Cheshire and beyond and is also a trusted contractor for Roe Developments and Clowes Developments, providing planting, turfing and soft landscaping on large retail parks and housing developments nationwide.
Colin said: “Roe Developments and Clowes Developments are brilliant to work with – very professional, very safety-conscious,” says Colin. “We’re proud to support them, and going electric helps us meet the latest site requirements for emissions and noise.”
With 9.3kN bucket tearout, up to 1.8kph travel speed and whisper-quiet 66dB(A) operation at the operator’s seat, the machine is capable, clean and a joy to operate.
The machine was supplied by Gunn JCB, which went above and beyond to help Colin secure the first production model. He said: “Gunn JCB kept me updated throughout the build and really pulled it out of the bag. JCB Finance were, as always, easy to deal with and found a package that worked for us.”
Looking Ahead
Colin concludes: “Some people ask, ‘what if it runs out of charge?’ but I’ve not come close. The 8008E CTS is efficient, quiet, and does everything we need – without the downsides of diesel. I only have positive things to say.”
Clean, quiet and ready to work, for Ash Landscaping, the future is already here.