Landscape Management’s Editor-in-Chief Seth Jones attended Bobcat’s Next is Now media event in Aurora, Colo., at the new Bobcat Training Center — a new 44,400 square-foot facility.
During the event, Bobcat unveiled innovative new product designs, technologies and their new, fully integrated brand campaign Next is Now.
“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, Inc. “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.”
During the event, Park detailed the company’s vision to be the global leader in compact equipment. Mike Ballweber, president of Doosan Bobcat North America, introduced a series of new Bobcat products launching as part of the Next is Now campaign and Joel Honeyman, vice president of global innovation, demonstrated new technologies available on the newest Bobcat machines.
“The challenges our customers face change and evolve every day,” Ballweber says. “They depend on equipment that works just as hard, if not harder, than they do. With these new products, we’re offering them a comprehensive lineup from a brand they trust to get the work done.”
New Products
R-Series compact loaders – The new R-Series machines are redesigned, inside and outside, to be the most powerful, durable loaders built by Bobcat. The first models of R-Series loaders will be available in early 2020.
Compact tractors – The lineup of 15 machines, ranging from 21 – 58 horsepower, offers versatility and durability.
R2-Series E42 and E50 compact excavators – New R2-Series compact excavators boast a new look and improved quality, reliability and dependability. The new R2-Series machines offer improved over-the-side digging performance and slewing ability, thanks to a new design and integrated counterweight. R2-Series excavators offer increased lift capacities, enhanced cooling, quieter cabs, better visibility and easier access to service areas. Low-effort joysticks respond easily to operator input, enabling longer operation with less fatigue.
E145 excavator – This new, larger-class excavator pairs well with large-frame Bobcat loaders and delivers quick cycle times; powerful hydraulic, arm and bucket forces; and a spacious cab.
Small articulated loaders – These loaders are sized to easily fit into backyards yet offer impressive lifting capacity. They are ideal for landscaping, tree care, tree removal and snow removal tasks. Bobcat small articulated loaders are easy to transport and offer a light footprint for low turf disturbance. The first Bobcat small articulated loaders will be available in early 2020.
New technologies
During the event, Bobcat also unveiled new ways to connect people and machines. These technologies will allow dealers to better serve customers and help operators work more efficiently, more safely and in ways they never dreamed possible.
“Innovation has been at the forefront of Bobcat Company since the start,” Honeyman says. “With these new technologies, we’re furthering our commitment to delivering the latest solutions available with state-of-the-art technology.”
MaxControl remote operation – This new technology provides convenient, easily accessible remote-control operation using an app on a smartphone. With Bobcat MaxControl remote operation, two-person jobs become single-worker tasks so customers can accomplish more with a smaller crew. Available on M2-Series and R-Series compact loaders with Selectable Joystick Controls (iOS only).
Machine IQ wireless communications, owner portal – Customers can take machine management to a new level with Bobcat Machine IQ and the Bobcat Owner Portal. Using wireless communication technology, Bobcat machines can be monitored from anywhere.
Touch displays – The in-cab display improves the operator experience, helping operators more efficiently use the machines and react to unique situations. The optional, full-color 7-inch display features a wide touchscreen to change settings, match performance to the job and continuously monitor the machine’s maintenance needs. It comes with a USB power port and active noise canceling during phone calls. Available as an option for new R-Series compact loaders, E85 excavators and new R2-Series compact excavators.
Bob-Dock attachment mounting system – The Bob-Dock system is a hands-free hydraulic attachment mounting system. Compact loader operators can change most hydraulic attachments without leaving the cab. The Bob-Dock system is available for select M2-Series skid-steer and compact track loaders, and the A770 all-wheel steer loader.
