Bell will start production later this year of its motor graders for Stage 3 markets after years of research, development and having prototypes on site.
Jeremiah Mokhomo, Bell Equipment product manager, explained that the Tier 3 range consists of three base models, each available in either a 4WD or 6WD configuration. The G140 is well suited to all maintenance and light to medium construction tasks. The G160, with its increased power and performance, is designed to handle heavy construction applications, while the G200 is designed for bulk earthworks and the mining industry.
“From the outset, we factored in the requirements of a six-wheel drive configuration,” said Mokhomo. “This early integration, as opposed to trying to add it to the platform later, means a better-performing, more controllable and robust machine that is easier to maintain. The significant improvement in performance achieved by adding front-wheel drive is useful only if it is reliable for the life of the grader, so we have invested time to make sure this is the case.”
Bell motor graders are powered by Cummins engines paired with ZF transmissions. The Bell G140 is fitted with a 6.7l Cummins engine and ZF ERGOPOWER transmission while the larger G160 and G200 are driven by a 9l Cummins engine with the ZF cPOWER transmission.
Additionally, the engines are Stage 3A certified, do not require exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and are compatible with both hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and B20 biodiesel.
Bell said that Stage 5 graders will be launched in due course and will meet the EU and US emission regulations.
