Loads of sustainability

28 July 2021

The latest launch from Tufftruk has strong green credentials due not only to the nature of the machine itself, but also in aspects of the way it is produced. 

The battery powered Truxta EB500 joins the manufacturer’s range of articulated mini dumpers and supersedes the Bendie 450E. It has a 500kg payload capacity rather than its predecessor’s 450kg. 

The battery provides a stated eight hours usage time before recharging is required. 

“We’ve listened to customers and introduced new features following their feedback,” managing director Andrew Simpson tells me. 

“Handle height can now be adjusted to suit different operators and the handlebars can be folded down without tools to fit the machine inside even smaller vans and vehicles. 

“A central lifting point is incorporated together with heavy-duty drive axles, and an electronic override allows the brake to be released for manoeuvrability in the unlikely event of the operator draining the battery.” 

The steel skip can be replaced with a tough plastic ‘poly-skip’ if required and all existing attachments, including a towball, flatbed and skip extensions, are compatible with the EB500. 

“We’ve also added subtle touches like a storage area for the charge cable,” says Andrew. 

Further green credentials derive from Tufftruk’s manufacturing operation. The product range, which includes battery and petrol models, is made in the UK at its Leek factory and as many components as practically possible are sourced from suppliers within a 30-mile radius. 

This helps other local businesses and reduces reliance on overseas suppliers. It also lowers Tufftruk’s carbon footprint and that of its customers. 

Andrew says that more hirers are now buying the battery powered models which now represent the majority of sales. And he adds that two national hirers are currently evaluating the EB500. 

“Also, more manufacturers are introducing electric mini excavators, so our machines are ideal for working alongside them. The timing is perfect.”