Bobcat unveils new mini excavator

Bobcat unveiled a new addition to its M-Series line of mini excavators at the ConExpo show - the 2.6 tonne E26, minimal tail swing compact machine.

The new model replaces Bobcat's long-standing 324 and 425 models and will reach the market in July this year. The E26 is powered by a 27 hp (20 kW) Interim Tier 4 compliant engine and has just 0.8 in (20 mm) of tail overhang - allowing the machine to fit into tighter surroundings than its predecessor models.

The E26's hydraulic system delivers 4991 ft/lbs (6.8 kN) of bucket breakout force, and can dig to 8ft 6 in (2.6 m) with a standard arm and 9 ft 6 in (2.9 m) using the long-arm option. The machine also sports an auto-shift drive system to improve productivity during travel. This means it will automatically shift to low speed (1.6 mph, 2.6 km/h) as drive load increases, and shift back to high range (2.7 mph, 4.4 km/h) as the load declines.

In addition to the new mini excavator, Bobcat also debuted its new V619 VersaHandler telescopic tool carrier at the show. The 6.1 tonne machine will join its line of telescopic tool carriers in the spring and features a maximum 19.6 ft (6 m) lifting height and 6613 lb (2.9 tonne) load capacity.

Power comes from a 100 hp (74.6 kW) side-mounted engine, while boom suspension provides more stability on rough terrain. Integrated pressure-release quick couplers are also mounted on the boom head, making changing the hydraulic attachments quick and easy.

Bobcat was also showcasing its new S750 skid-steer loader at ConExpo, its T770 tracked loader and its A770 all-wheel loader.

The S750 skid steer joins Bobcat's M-Series loader line and delivers 3.3 m of vertical lift, an operating weight of 3.9 tonnes and an 63.4 kW engine.

The T770 compact tracked loader, meanwhile, has a rated operating capacity of 1.61 tonnes. Hydraulic flow has been increased +30% compared to the previous model, and the machine's traction is also +15% to +20% higher than its predecessor for better pushing performance and digging power, while a larger fuel tank leaves more time between fill-ups.

The A770 replaces the A300 model and offers both all-wheel steer and skid-steer drive options at the flip of a switch. Visibility has been improved by +40%, while the size of the cab has increased by +10%.