Bobcat introduces subscription service for features on skid-steer and compact track loaders
A new approach to technology for compact equipment
Bobcat is taking a big leap into the future with its new slate of compact equipment and connected technology offerings. In September the company launched its Next is Now initiative coinciding with the ribbon cutting of a new technician training centre in Aurora, Colorado.
"With the launch of Next is Now, we are creating solutions that are unique and innovative with connected technologies," said Scott Park, CEO of Doosan Bobcat. "Next is Now means customers can continuously rely on Bobcat to lead the industry with the tools that help them do more and do it better."
New technology features include an Owner Portal for remote equipment monitoring; Features On Demand, which is a subscription service for skid-steer and compact track loader features; a new 7-inch colour display option for CTLs, SSLs and excavators; and MaxControl remote operation via smartphone for SSLs and CTLs.
Equipment introductions included compact excavators, a larger-class excavator, a revamped SSL and CTL line, small articulated loaders and compact tractors.
New R-Series compact loaders get Features On Demand
Starting in early 2020 Bobcat will launch a completely revamped lineup of its SSLs and CTLs. The R-Series is redesigned for greater strength, more visibility, reconfigured work group and a boost in lift height. Cast steel construction in the loader arms on the R-Series increases their strength and rigidity, and a redesigned cooling system allows these loaders to run longer and do bigger jobs. Bobcat has redesigned the geometry of the workgroup to improve lift capacity throughout the range of motion.
Bobcat is offering a new subscription service for R-Series loaders called Features On Demand. With this service customers can purchase a compact loader with hardware for all advanced features pre-installed on the machine. The customer can select which features to turn on through the subscription service to adapt the equipment to suit their needs – and only pay for premium features as they are needed.
Features On Demand include: high-flow auxiliary hydraulics, 2-Speed travel, reversing fan, dual-direction bucket positioning and automatic ride control.
Bobcat says that Features On Demand will enable customers to lower their upfront cost when purchasing a new machine if they don't need to use all of the advanced features right away.
Bobcat's new MaxControl turns the operator's smartphone into a remote controller for M2 or the new R-Series compact loaders. Via the app the operator can control machine functions and operate attachments from up to 300 feet away. Bobcat says this feature is ideal for one-person jobs where the operator may need to get in and out of the cab frequently – eliminating moving on and off the machine.
Bobcat's biggest excavator ever
The 115-hp, 14-metric-ton E145 excavator is Bobcat's largest model ever. This reduced tail swing model offers 27 feet 11 inches of reach, 13,228 lbf. digging force and a 19,270-pound lift capacity. Bobcat says that this model is ideal for heavy digging and lifting on commercial and residential building sites, underground utility applications, and road and bridge projects. It offers four selectable power modes and can be outfitted with a dozer blade.
Two compact excavators updated
Bobcat previewed two R2-Series compact excavators that will be available in early 2020. The R2 E42 and E50 excavators feature a dual-flange track roller system that adds stability. This, in conjunction with a new integrated counterweight, will increase the lift-over-side capacity and improve over-the-side digging performance and slewing ability. These R2 excavators offer greater visibility through larger top and side windows paired with narrower side pillars. Bobcat says its joysticks provide quick, precise movement with low effort and the new hydraulic control valve offers improved metering, finite movement and controllability for level grading and fast cycle times.
Side-by-side heat exchangers in the new cooling system control engine compartment temperature more efficiently and the composite tailgate with steel interior provides maximum durability and protects machine components.
