Airport/Runway Sweepers Used for Rubber Removal /Stand Scrubbing /Metal Debris Pick Up

Now with 4-wheel steer Option

Johnston Sweepers is delighted to announce the launch of its completely new C201 compact sweeper, replacing the current C200 range in the most radical re-design of the popular sweeper since its debut back in 2006.

The new machine looks different, drives differently and has a host of operator-friendly new features, incorporating more than thirty design upgrades over the previous model, while retaining the simple, reliable, low-cost of ownership design concept, for which the range is distinguished.

Sensational manoeuvrability
The most striking aspect of the new machine is its remarkable manoeuvrability, which Johnston's engineers have taken to an unprecedented new level with the introduction of a unique, patented four-wheel steer system option – the first and only of its kind throughout Europe. The ingenious design combines the advantages of four-wheel and articulated steer for sweeping round outside curves, with the already renowned 80o steering lock of Johnston's conventional two-wheel steer for turning on itself. The result is the best of both worlds, giving unprecedented manoeuvrability in any sweeping situation.

The new system switches seamlessly between the two steering modes, automatically selecting four-wheel steer in slow-speed work operation. Initially, the rear wheels turn opposite to the fronts proportionally up to 20o for outside curves at roundabouts and road junctions. But, when a tighter turning circle is needed the front wheels continue to the traditional 80o, turning the machine almost on itself. Two-wheel steer is also automatically selected when the sweeper is in transit mode for more predictable handling at higher speeds. In accommodating the new steering system, Johnston's design team has taken the opportunity to introduce more than thirty design changes to the C201, including an all-new chassis and engine mounting, new-look cab, Glide 2 suspension system, state-of-the-art electronics and a host of new safety and comfort features.

Spacious and stylish new cab
Certainly, the cab is the most immediately eye-catching change, with its distinctive and stylish new look following the 'family look' of the Johnston range. The first thing operators will notice is the impressive visibility, with twenty five percent more glass area to the floor of the cab giving unparalleled views of the nozzle and debris for ease of operation. A nozzle work lamp has also been introduced to illuminate the nozzle during dusk and night-time sweeping. The extra glass area was one of a number of suggestions made by customers when asked what changes they would like to see in Johnston's compact range – proving that the customer is always right! To add to the spacious feel of the interior, the C201 has a new-style roof which gives greater headroom – and looks good too! This, together with newly-designed door trims with integrated armrest, has added light and space inside the cab for a more comfortable ride.

The cab also incorporates a completely new-generation electronics system, giving even greater control of operation. At the heart of the system is a brand new 7" colour screen which displays the speedometer and all the operational information needed by the driver, as well as the diagnostic data for safety and maintenance. The screen doubles up as a reversing camera where this option is selected. As a further enhancement, data capture will be available via the new electronics system, allowing information such as fuel consumption and hours and miles swept to be downloaded via the screen's USB port, giving fleet operators all the information they need to monitor sweeping operations. And for the first time on a UK sweeper, climate control is offered as an option, with the air conditioning and heater systems controlling the environment and maintaining the desired cab temperature, as used in luxury cars. A new 'shuffle' button has also been introduced to the armrest control which allows the machine to shuffle backwards at slow speed to collect any missed debris, without having to select reverse.

Outside the cab, new LED daylight running lamps, similar to those used in luxury cars, have been fitted to meet impending legislation, and the front and side lights have been repositioned for greater safety and visibility. Introducing 'Glide 2' suspension Underneath the machine, Johnston has overhauled its clever Glide suspension to introduce the patented new Glide 2 system. Glide 2 incorporates a single coil on each wheel instead of the dual coil on the previous system. Larger dampers with increased oil capacity and a semi trailing arm have also been introduced, together with dynamic camber as used in motor sport – completely transforming ride and reliability. The new chassis itself has been re-engineered and strengthened, while new engine mounts significantly reduce vibration for ultimate drive comfort. Johnston's design team has even replaced many of the hydraulic pipes throughout the machine, introducing steel piping to maximise reliability – as used successfully on the C400 mid-size sweeper range.

The result is an innovative and stylish new compact sweeper, like none other in the market. Its ingenious steering system, spacious and light cab, clever CanBus electronics, upgraded Glide 2 suspension system and transformed ride quality combine to produce a sweeper at the very top of its class. At the same time, the C201 has inherited all the best features of the outgoing model, including great reliability, low cost of ownership and outstanding fuel consumption.

Clive Offley, Johnston's Engineering Director, believes that customers will be impressed with the new C201. "One of the enduring qualities of Johnston's compact is its agility, having the capability to turn on a sixpence, but this latest steering concept has taken manoeuvrability to a new level and is unique to the market", he says. "The compact has remained one of our most successful sweepers because we have continually developed and refined the design over the years in response to customer feedback and new market ideas", he continues. "In designing the C201 we have taken all the latest ideas a step further to produce a completely new machine with pioneering technology and best-ever ride, comfort and driveability, which we believe will be competitive in Europe and in the UK". Johnston has once again chosen to test the new machine at Millbrook's gruelling Proving Ground in Bedfordshire, where it has undergone a simulated five years of extreme use on Belgian pavé, twist humps, kerb strikes and driveway ramps.

The tests replicate very rapidly the life of the machine and its components, allowing optimum performance and durability to be achieved before launch to the market. The new C201 sweepers will be produced at Johnston's manufacturing plant in Sittingbourne, Kent, and will be available for sale from 22nd June 2011.