A60EH articulated boom lift

SCOT JCB has unveiled plans to showcase the latest innovations from JCB and host the Scottish heat of the JCB Operator Challenge at ScotPlant 2026.

Visitors will have the opportunity to see a wide range of JCB equipment up close, including some of the newest machines in the range such as the A60EH articulated boom lift, a hybrid access platform engineered to handle greater loads while ‘maximising productivity and efficiency’. Powered by eight 6V AGM batteries supported by a 14.8kW Kohler engine, the 60ft boom lift offers a maximum working height of 20.3m and outreach of 11.9m, setting a new benchmark in hybrid access platforms.

Also making an appearance will be the JCB VM118D single drum soil compactor, the first in a new generation of vibratory rollers. The model is described as the world’s first 12-tonne class single drum roller with a 55kW engine that requires no DEF, making it a ‘game-changer’ for total cost of ownership. Designed for applications ranging from road construction to building foundations and rail infrastructure, the machine combines a 2,100mm drum width, operating weight of up to 13,500kg, and 55% gradability.

JCB VM118D

For larger earthmoving applications, ScotPlant attendees will be able to see the JCB 370X tracked excavator, a 35–40 tonne class machine built for the toughest environments. With a maximum digging depth of 8.36m, 240kW engine power and bucket capacity of up to 2.1m3, the 370X has been engineered and tested to extremes to deliver ‘exceptional’ durability and productivity on demanding projects.

Scot JCB will also be showcasing a range of mini, midi and tracked excavators, dumpers and Loadall telehandlers.

Back by popular demand for 2026 is the Scottish heat of the JCB Operator Challenge, where operators will compete in two timed trials designed to test their precision and machine handling skills. The top three competitors will progress to the UK final at the JCB Quarry in July, with the overall winner crowned JCB Operator of the Year 2026 and awarded an all-expenses-paid trip for two to New York.

https://www.jcb.com/en-GB/campaigns/2026/operator-challenge-2026/

Operators can register online at: https://www.jcb.com/en-GB/campaigns/2026/operator-challenge-2026/ or simply turn up on the day to take part.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy Scot JCB’s famous hospitality inside the firm’s marquee.

Iain Bryant, joint MD of Scot JCB, said, “ScotPlant is one of the most important events in the Scottish construction calendar and a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with customers from across the industry. We are delighted to be returning in 2026 with a strong line-up of the latest JCB machines and to once again host the Scottish heat of the JCB Operator Challenge. It’s always a brilliant competition that showcases the incredible skill of machine operators, and we’re looking forward to seeing some great talent on display.”