The first electric zero emission digger has been bought in the island.

JCK Limited has sold the Wacker Neuson EZ17E, the latest and first of its type in the island, to Marlinspike Properties, a local development company, for its works in Castletown.

The excavator is well suited to working inside the confines of a building and small lanes.

It also gives off no fumes and very low noise emissions, according to JCK.

It is equally as powerful as the diesel powered versions and has very low maintenance.

JCK said in a statement: ’It will do a full working day easily on one charge and can be left plugged in whilst working if necessary to prolong the working shift.

’With three modes of charging available, you will never be stuck with a flat battery and unlike electric cars, no special charging outlet is required, a 13amp household socket is sufficient as one of the three options.’

JCK will be using the Wacker Neuson equipment in its own fleet but also supplying to the island’s construction industry.

It added: ’The use of zero emission products will only increase as time goes on and JCK are proud to be part of this.

’Our old saying is "Investing in the Future" and we certainly are investing in everybody’s future with these products.’

Wacker Neuson patented its first electric equipment in 1930 and now brings a vast range of zero emission tools and equipment to the industry.

JCK said: ’We are delighted to be incorporating zero emission equipment into our own fleet.’