First unveiled to the public at the Royal Smithfield farm show in Great Britain in 1990, the Fastrac began production the following year. Offering 125 and 140 horsepower respectively, the first two models to see production were the 120 and 145.
Final design of those two initial production models was somewhat different than the original engineering concepts proposed in the early stages of development. Model sizes have steadily grown and drivetrain systems have changed over the years, but keeping the equal-wheeled, mid-cab design coupled with a rear deck is where brand executives say they see the future of this tractor line.
With a similar configuration, the new 8000s now join the Fastrac lineup alongside the brand’s smaller 160 to 235 horsepower 4000 Series.
For a video look at a parade of models detailing the evolution of the Fastrac, visit our e-QuipTV videos page.
Where does the JCB name come from?
The company name JCB is actually the initials of its founder, Joseph Cyril Bamford. He started the company in 1945 by building end-dump farm trailers in a small garage in Uttoxeter England, using surplus World War II materials.
Today, his son Lord Anthony Bamford is chairman of the company and is generally credited with developing the Fastrac tractor concept in 1984. The first prototype was built in 1987.
