Hewden, the UK's largest plant hirer has today announced the arrival of the highly anticipated TH series telehandler from Caterpillar. Available throughout Hewden's nationwide network of depots, the latest model is the safest, greenest and most efficient telehandler within the company's 2,600 strong fleet of machines.

The TH Series, introduced by JLG as part of its strategic alliance with Caterpillar, is a range of six machines from 2,500kg rated capacity and 5.5m of lift height, to 4,000kg rated capacity and 17m of lift height.

The TH series was designed with the operator's comfort and safety in mind and as a result, extensive modifications were made to the basic design of the machine. The boom was lowered and the seat raised, resulting in improved visibility for the driver, thus reducing the risk of an accident caused by impaired views.

The entire range is fully equipped with CAT's new high power, low emission C4.4 diesel engine, designed to minimise its impact on the environment without jeopardising performance. The C4.4 diesel engine produces gross power of up to 127 horsepower and meets EU Stage IIIA emissions requirements.

"The new range epitomises everything we stand for as a business. We put the safety of our people first and are striving to reduce our environmental impact. Last year we launched our environmental campaign Green Boots, and this year we reached 2 million hours without a single LTI (Lost Time Incident). The new machines will help us to further improve in both areas," said Alan Huddart, General Manager of Product at Hewden.

Inside the cab, the TH Series is extremely spacious, making it easier for the driver to enter and exit the vehicle safely. Improvements to the design and layout of the controls means that every operation is within optimum reach of the driver. Furthermore, a single joystick to control the hydraulics greatly eases the burden on the operator and reduces the risk of fatigue.

"Regardless of whether a job is big or small, requires a machine to work in tight spaces or even on difficult terrain, there's a machine within the TH Series range perfect for its application," concluded Alan Huddart.