New generation of telescopic loaders launched
30th October 2021
Bobcat is launching its new generation R-Series telescopic loader range for agriculture, providing a choice of seven models with Stage 5 engines.
The new telescopic loaders cover maximum lifting capacities between 2.6–4.3t, with lifting heights from 6–8m. This is the latest phase in Bobcat’s revolutionary ‘Next is Now’ programme. The range comprises compact models (TL26.60, TL30.60 and TL30.70) and large models (TL35.70, TL34.65HF, TL38.70HF and TL43.80HF). Bobcat is aiming to double the production of its telescopic loaders by 2025.
Premium workspace and experience
A new cab design offers high quality, contemporary interiors featuring stand-out branding, colours and textures. All surfaces are optimised for increased space and visibility and the backlit controls are within easy reach and quickly identified thanks to colour coding.
Special attention has been paid to storage spaces. The refrigerated or heated isothermal compartment makes a full day’s work more enjoyable and general soundproofing has been worked on, reducing noise levels in the cab by half.
A new Grammer Maximo Dynamic air suspension seat with heating, featuring a suspended armrest with joystick, provides an outstanding ride and high operating comfort, Bobcat reckons. The LCD colour display provides interactive and streamlined information and is available with a larger 7in touchscreen with built- in radio and a phone page for dialling contacts instantly. The feed from the rear camera is visible on the display as soon as reverse gear is engaged, and the right-hand side electric mirror can also be quickly adjusted from the cab. A full LED light pack gives 360-degree visibility.
The new multifunctional joystick enables faster operations. The FNR button located at the back of the joystick is easily controlled using the index finger, allowing operators to use their thumb to actuate the usual boom and auxiliary functions and new smart functions such as the auto grab, bucket-shaking feature, boom float and speed shifting system.
R-Series loaders feature a new engine hood with a steeper profile that increases visibility and reduces blind spots by 15% on the right- hand-side of the machines, providing excellent unobstructed visibility from the cab.
Increased efficiency and productivity
High visibility from the cab is optimised with 360-degree LED work lights, the best-in-class boom speeds and powerful transmission and automated boom movements, allowing farmers to complete work more efficiently and in less time. R-Series loaders also offer a range of new and proven operating functions: Job Manager, two drive modes, flex drive control and automated boom functions.
The Job Manager allows operators to save and recall custom settings for different attachments or applications to quickly work with the best machine settings.
To fully exploit the loader’s high productivity, operators can quickly shift from smooth drive to Dynamic drive where more rapid machine performance is required, with faster forward and backward shifting and more rapid acceleration and deceleration phases. Flex Drive mode uses the hand throttle to bring a new dimension to driving the telehandler, with forward speed managed independently from engine speed with the right pedal and no need to play with the left inching pedal in the approach phase.
A new fourth mode called ‘semi-crab’ allows operators to keep rear wheels in a desired position and steer the machine with the front wheels. This simplifies cleaning alongside the walls of animal stalls and when working on silage piles.
New automated boom functions include:
Max lift angle: Operators set the desired max boom angle to limit the working area at height, helping to prevent collisions when working in low-ceiling buildings
Return to ground: Operators set the desired work position (angle of the boom retracted). As the boom is lowered, it self-retracts and stops when the memorised position is reached. This allows operators to start working more quickly and avoids damaging the ground or attachment
Auto grab: There is no need for operators to keep their thumb on the roller to open or close the grapple bucket or any kind of clamp attachment. Instead, they over-press the roller and the action is carried out automatically Bobcat has retained its signature box-welded frame design, with steel plate protection at the base of the machine. This design protects the transmission and hydraulics, and the machine’s very low centre of gravity ensures exceptional work stability. Thanks to the combination of well-balanced machines, a low centre of gravity, a heavy counterweight and a long wheelbase, the loaders can handle heavy loads at any height, easily and safely.
Access to the engine compartment has been improved, enabling easier maintenance. Under the hood, R-Series loaders are powered by new upgraded versions of the Bobcat D34 Stage 5 engine, utilising DPF after-treatment, which is automatically regenerated with no impact on performance and no disturbance for operators.
The new range is available with a choice of four different AGRI finishing levels. The new AGRI 4 Star pack is equipped with all the new comfort and productivity equipment of this new generation of machines. It targets the most demanding farmers and aspires to build a brand image of “excellence in farming machinery”, Bobcat says.
The R-Series comes with a three-year/3,000- hour warranty on the entire machine as standard from the factory, extendable to five years/5,000 hours. Bobcat is the only manufacturer to provide a three-year warranty as standard.
