JCB (heavy equipment manufacturer)

**History of JCB:**
– Founded by Joseph Cyril Bamford in October 1945 in Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, England.
– Developed the first vehicle, a tipping trailer, from war-surplus materials in 1945.
– Introduced the first backhoe loader in 1953 and established the JCB logo.
– Sold over 3,000 3C backhoe loaders by 1964.
– Dominated the Indian market with 3 out of every 4 construction equipment pieces sold in 2014.

**Products and Services:**
– Produces backhoe loaders, wheeled loading shovels, articulated dump trucks, and tractors.
– Manufactures military vehicles like the JCB HMEE and feature phones for construction sites.
– JCB power systems produce hydrogen combustion engines.
– Offers insurance services through JCB Insurance Services.

**JCB Dieselmax:**
– Developed in 2006, the JCB Dieselmax broke the diesel engine land speed record.
– Powered by two modified JCB 444 diesel power plants generating 750bhp.
– Reached speeds over 350mph with a two-stage turbocharger system.
– Driven by Andy Green, initially achieved 328.767mph.

**Controversies and Criticism:**
– Fined for violating EU antitrust law in 2000, with a final appeal rejected in 2006.
– Involved in tax avoidance through subsidiaries in tax havens and questionable financial transactions.
– Listed in the UN database for involvement in Israeli settlements, a controversial international issue.
– Accused by Amnesty International of supplying equipment used to demolish Muslim-owned homes in India.

**Recent Developments and Political Involvement:**
– Received a £600M loan from the UK government in 2020 during the pandemic.
– JCB’s stance on Brexit, leaving the CBI business lobby group and supporting pro-Brexit movements.
– Donated to the UK Conservative Party and pro-Brexit group Vote Leave.
– Continues to face scrutiny for its involvement in global affairs and political contributions.