Built for the clamp: The JCB 457S Agri in Action

The JCB 457S Agri marks a major step forward in large-scale agricultural loading machinery, built to meet the demands of contractors and big farming operations across New Zealand. With a rated operating weight just over 20 tonnes and peak output of 282 horsepower, it brings a power-to-weight ratio of around 14 horsepower per tonne giving it the strength and speed to handle the toughest silage clamp or feed-pad jobs.

The 6.7-litre Cummins B6.7 engine provides up to 282 horsepower and 1,200 Nm of torque fordemanding clamp work.

At its heart lies the proven 6.7-litre Cummins B6.7 engine, delivering up to 1,200 newton metres of torque in its high-power setting. Operators can select between two power modes depending on the job. Economy mode produces 230 horsepower for lower fuel use in lighter tasks, while Dynamic mode delivers the full 282 horsepower for maximum productivity when pushing, loading, or climbing. The flexibility allows the operator to manage output and fuel consumption precisely to match workload and conditions.

A six-speed powershift transmission with lock-up in all forward gears ensures smooth and efficient transfer of power to the ground. The lock-up function provides direct mechanical drive rather than relying solely on converter slip, improving acceleration and hill-climb ability while maintaining impressive roading speed. The transmission automatically selects the correct gear for each situation but can also be manually controlled when operators want more input, particularly useful in clamp work or heavy load transfer.

The heavy-duty axles are designed for the stress of large farm and contracting operations with 20-stud hubs, wide track stability and options for limited-slip or automatic locking differentials. Tyre sizes up to 800/65 R32 can be fitted while keeping the overall machine width below three metres, allowing safe access into bunkers and tight sheds. Depending on specification, top travel speeds of 40 or 48 kilometres per hour mean the 457S Agri can move quickly between jobs or yards without a low loader.

The loader arms are available in two configurations. The standard arm provides a pin height of 4.3 metres while the high-lift version extends to 4.8 metres, giving extra reach when working over silage walls or loading tall trailers. Non-parallel lift geometry keeps the bucket or attachment rolled back as the arms raise, improving stability and reducing spillage when handling loose material.

For versatility, the loader is equipped with up to two auxiliary hydraulic services and can be fitted with a tow hitch complete with reversing camera and trailer braking options, rated to 20 tonnes. For silage work, a purpose-built 4.88-metre folding grass fork with a 7.1 cubic metre capacity is available matching the power and weight of the 457S perfectly on the clamp.

Cooling performance has been engineered for the realities of agricultural work. A large single-faced wide-core cooling pack with an automatic reversing fan keeps the radiators clear of chaff and dust. This is essential for silage and maize work in New Zealand’s summer conditions where air temperatures and debris levels can quickly rise. A 400-litre fuel tank built into the chassis extends working time between fills, helping contractors stay on the job through long harvest days.

Durability is evident throughout the chassis and loader design. Precision robot-welded joints, taper roller bearings in all articulation points and a cast counterweight integrated into the rear frame protect key components from damage and extend service life. Engineers have focused on maximising uptime, with grouped service points and easy-access panels for routine checks.

The Command Plus cab provides one of the best operator environments in the sector with excellent visibility and a quiet, sealed workspace. The optional Contractor Pro package adds full 360-degree LED lighting, twin roof beacons, stainless exhaust stack and a heated and cooled half-leather seat. These touches matter during long days in silage season or late-night feed operations, where comfort and visibility directly influence productivity and safety.

Digital connectivity through JCB LiveLink gives operators and fleet managers real-time visibility of machine health, fuel use, operating hours and service intervals. This telematics system is particularly valuable for contracting businesses managing multiple machines across wide areas, enabling better planning and maintenance scheduling.

Power Farming supports the 457S Agri with parts, technical service and attachment options suited to regional farming systems, ensuring backup is available during critical periods.

In operation, the 457S Agri proves its worth through power, stability and control. The 14 horsepower per tonne ratio means it can push hard into clamp walls or dense silage stacks without bogging down. The balance between mass and torque lets operators build clamps efficiently and safely, maintaining compaction consistency across the face. The selectable power modes and automatic idle shutdown feature also help manage fuel costs when the full output isn’t required.

For New Zealand’s large-scale contracting businesses and high-output dairy or arable farms, the JCB 457S Agri presents a complete package. Its width and roading capability make it well suited for moving between properties and the high-lift option allows efficient loading of large transporters or feed wagons. The machine’s design reflects a deep understanding of how farmers and contractors work - combining raw performance with operator comfort, serviceability and flexibility.

The 457S Agri stands as a flagship of JCB’s agricultural loader range and a clear signal of the brand’s focus on purpose-built machines for modern, heavy-duty farming. For those handling silage, feed, grain or bulk material at scale, it offers the power, precision and dependability that define the top end of today’s loading equipment.