The top-selling JCB Loadall telescopic handler range has been expanded with the addition of the mid-range 538-70 model – a 7m lift height machine with a 3.8-tonne capacity.

Slotting into the Loadall Series III line-up, its place sits between the current 532-70 and 542-70 models.

Like its stablemates, the new 538-70 is available with a choice of four different transmissions, three power outputs and three standard feature and specification levels. Together with a comprehensive options' list, buyers have a pick and mix for all kinds of applications and budget.

The 538-70 AGRI variant comes with JCB’s Torque Lock 4 transmission, featuring torque converter lock-up in fourth gear for power-efficient direct drive on the road, coupled to a 109hp (81kW) version of the Stage V emissions-compliant JCB DieselMAX 448 engine.

The 'Super' version has 130hp (97kW) from this engine and a regular four-speed Powershift as the base transmission installation; but along with the 150hp AGRI Xtra, it is also available with a six-speed Autoshift with automatic and manual shifting modes in addition to torque converter lock-up in the top two gears.

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The Super and Xtra can also be had with DualTech VT, the unique JCB transmission that combines the best characteristics of hydrostatic and powershift drives in one unit.

This transmission provides precision slow speed control for loading and other handling tasks, and direct-drive auto powershift without a torque converter for high-performance, fuel-efficient field and road travel beyond 19kph.

Switching between the two elements is seamless, without operator involvement – but operator-selected ‘power’ and fuel-saving ‘eco’ modes are available to suit different applications, and powershift selection can be restricted for field work.

The transmission’s Flexi mode permits a fixed engine speed to be set for optimum hydraulics performance, with only the transmission then responding to the accelerator pedal – ideal for consistent loading performance and for operating hydraulically-driven attachments.

In addition, DualTech VT provides permanent four-wheel drive within the hydrostatic transmission element’s speed range for maximum traction in field and yard; full-time four-wheel drive for high-speed road work, such as snow ploughing when maximum traction is needed; and automatic switching to rear-wheel drive only for optimum towing performance while minimising tyre wear.

Across all variants, standard equipment includes auto wheel alignment when switching between the three steering modes, and an auto reversing cooling fan that blows dust and debris from the air intake grille.

The 140-litre/min load-sensing hydraulics system includes gravity regeneration of oil for the retract and lower services to bring the boom down rapidly but under full control, and automatic Smooth Ride boom suspension is standard on all but the AGRI version where it is an option.

JCB’s comprehensive LiveLink telematics solution is also part of the standard package, providing comprehensive machine data, pro-active fault identification, timely service scheduling, and machine location and security features.

And as with all JCB Loadall Series III telescopic handlers, operators of the new 538-70 get to work in the advanced Command Plus cab with its ultra-quiet noise levels, great all-round and upwards visibility, push-away ‘memory’ steering column and generous storage provision.