Lifting, shifting, placing and lowering, the telehandler is a jack of many trades and Merlo has a model for most applications. CPN has a look.
Merlo is a name synonymous with telehandlers, a brand familiar with farmers the length and breadth of the land. But the manufacturer is also making inroads to the construction sector and its latest all-new ROTO range is tasked with doing just that. The company believes the line-up will deliver increased performance, thanks to a host of new features and an innovative fresh design.
Having undergone a significant programme of development the new ROTO generation heralds the arrival of increased lifting capacity while offering the lightest ground bearing pressure and market leading compact dimensions.
It’s not just the capacity (an increase in lifting capacity of 1,000kg per model) and upgraded lift heights, but the entire load chart has been enhanced. A significant number of new and improved components feature in the new design. At the heart of these models, a new chassis facilitates increases in capacity and output. A maximum travel speed of 40 km/h (where permitted or approved) ensures a timely arrival on site.
For rent
To meet the demands of the rapidly growing rental market, Merlo has also introduced the R rental models. Offering the same power, performance and reliability as the S Plus models the R models offer simplified management and operation, making them suitable for sites where multiple operators are present. Talking of operators, a lot of work has been done to improve day-to-day working.Refinements to the boom speed have allowed for an even smoother and more linear operation. In addition, the introduction of a ‘set point’ function allows the automatic return of the boom to a memorised position at maximum speed while maintaining safe operation. This feature is said to reduce operator fatigue and increase efficiency in repetitive work cycles.
Another feature is a new Cartesian movement function that automatically maintains the vertical trajectory of the attachment when raising or lowering, or a horizontal trajectory during extension or retraction of the boom. Additionally, the introduction of a load chart simulation function lets the operator know before commencing work as to whether it is feasible or not, simply by analysing the variation of the known parameters (attachment used, load to be lifted, stabiliser position etc). And you don’t have to work from the cab either, thanks to a new patented design of Merlo’s radio remote control, which offers a greater range of machine information than previously. For example, if a dangerous manoeuvre or situation is detected the LCD display screen background will change colour to alert the operator, allowing only safe movements to return the machine to a stable and safe situation.
Panoramic view
For the rough and tumble of your typical building site Merlo’s Panoramic range of stabilised telehandlers is probably a good choice. With six core models, including the P40.12, P40.13, P40.14, and P40.17 (all boasting a 4-ton lift capacity and lift heights from 12 to 17m), the range offers serious capability. Topping the lineup is the P50.18, featuring a 5-ton capacity and an 18m reach, while the compact P35.11 delivers stabilised performance where space is at a premium.
At the heart of the Panoramic range is Merlo’s stabiliser design. Mounted in line with the front axle, the stabilisers extend within the machine’s overall width, preserving a tight footprint ideal for urban or congested job sites. This configuration provides optimal lifting stability even on uneven ground, allowing accurate load placement in challenging environments.
Every Panoramic model comes standard with chassis levelling, a feature that hydraulically adjusts the front axle to level the machine before lifting. When stabilisers are deployed, the system enables up to 10° of tilt correction, enough to compensate for an 18° slope.
Add to that the boom side shift function – controlled via a joystick roller – and operators can laterally reposition the boom head with precision, without needing to reposition the entire machine. This is especially useful when loading materials, placing pallets, or positioning items on scaffolding with pinpoint accuracy.
Platform for safety
Panoramics can be equipped as platformready for safe use with Merlo’s TreEmme personnel baskets. A mechanical locking pin provides added security against detachment, while remote lift control from the platform allows for smooth, controlled positioning close to structures – minimising the risk of accidental contact or material damage. Safety and operator protection are important too. The ROPS/FOPS II-certified cab includes reinforced glass, a windscreen guard, and roof protection to shield against falling debris. Visibility is assured in all weather conditions with wipers on the front, rear, and roof panels. Under the hood, base models feature a 75hp Kohler engine that simplifies emissions compliance by eliminating the need for DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid). For more demanding applications, PLUS and TOP versions are powered by a 116hp Perkins engine.
All variants come equipped with a 2- speed, 40kph hydrostatic transmission and Merlo’s ECO power drive (EPD) system. EPD optimises fuel use – cutting consumption by up to 18% – while features like a programmable hand throttle, cruise control, and a self-accelerating joystick give operators control and focus on the task at hand. The adaptive stability control system (ASCS) provides real-time load monitoring to ensure safe operation at all times. TreEmme attachments benefit from automatic load chart recognition, while EN15000-compliant sensors enhance crane and winch operations, boosting operator confidence and load security. From lifting roof trusses and positioning brick pallets to placing loads on upper floors or scaffolding, Merlo’s Panoramic range is purpose-built for the rigours of housebuilding and commercial construction. With impressive reach, compact stability, and cutting-edge safety and control systems, Panoramic telehandlers can be counted on in high-reach, material-handling tasks.
For more from Merlo
