The latest phase in Bobcat’s Next is Now programme has arrived with the introduction of its R-Series Telehandlers.
“Telehandlers are a fundamental asset of our business strategy and key pillar of our Next is Now initiative,” declares Gustavo Otero, President, Doosan Bobcat EMEA. “Our new R-Series range offers high performance, robust machines for maximum uptime with a focus on accurate controls and intuitive operation for tackling any job on the construction site. With these new models and the increased investment in our telehandler business, we are aiming to double the production of Bobcat telehandlers by 2025.”
The R-Series provides a choice of 12 models all with Stage V engines, covering lifting heights from 6 to 18m with maximum lifting capacities between 2.6 and 4.1tonne.
Precise Control
A newly configured transmission system offers enhanced smoothness in carrying out the trickiest jobs at height with surgical precision. These operations are also facilitated by the combination of the Boom Positioning System, the new updated joystick, the inching function and improved visibility from the cab.
An enhanced inching pedal design is easier to use and reduces fatigue. A higher engine brake provides a shorter stop distance and increases safety on construction sites. Turtle/rabbit speeds are standard on all models and operated from the joystick. There is a new DYNAMIC mode for applications requiring rapid transmission response and the new optional hand throttle with FLEX DRIVE function allows for the control of travel speed independent from engine rpm.
Operator Experience
The Bobcat R-Series cab is designed around the operator, offering a central control panel for optimized 360° ergonomics. The new contemporary interior has been designed ergonomically, and all surfaces have been optimised to offer increased space and visibility. In addition, a new 5in. LCD display provides interactive and streamlined information, including the easier and more precise operation that the feed from the rear camera facilitates.
Bobcat has made it a very simple process for operators to start working immediately on the company’s R-Series telehandlers:
- All-in-one joystick with improved ergonomics
- Intuitive automotive-style controls (backlit keypad, jog-shuttle, levers under steering wheel)
- Interactive 5-inch LCD display
- Semi-automatic wheel alignment
- Automatic transmission and parking brake
Maximum Uptime
Uptime is key in construction and Bobcat has worked hard on the design to ensure they’re equipped for the tough jobs. There’s protective shielding of all vital components in key areas, and the robust frame and boom makes the units suitable for working in every possible environment. The shielded design also provides protection for hydraulic and electrical components – including the pipes, harness and transmission – and a steel plate guards the base of the machine. All the manufacturer’s telehandlers have a rigid boom structure and a robust frame with box section layout.
Easy Maintenance
All R-Series telehandlers now feature a new engine hood with a steeper profile that increases visibility and reduces blind spots by 15 per cent on the right hand side of the machines. Together with the new dashboard design, this provides excellent unobstructed visibility from the cab, allowing the driver to move around the job site with ease and minimises accidents or mistakes.
Access to the engine compartment has also been improved, enabling easier maintenance. Under the hood, R-Series telehandlers are powered by new upgraded versions of the Bobcat D34 Stage V engine, utilising DPF after-treatment, which is automatically regenerated with no impact on performance and no disturbance for operators.
The lack of AdBlue in the 75 HP engine and the absence of EGR in the 100 HP engine provide further advantages. Overall, the decreased number of intervals from five to three in these Stage V models allows for easier maintenance and a lower total cost of ownership. These machines are also connected via Bobcat’s new Machine IQ telematics system further enhancing the efficiency of the ownership experience. For lesser regulated markets, the proven Perkins Stage IIIA engine provides high power and the simplicity of its mechanical injection system.
Stability and Confidence
All areas of the R-Series range are designed to inspire full confidence in customers, beginning with the low centre of gravity and well-balanced design of the machines, which also incorporate a heavy counterweight and a long wheelbase.
The optimum weight distribution of the new Bobcat telehandlers, with or without the compact stabilizers being employed, also allows operators to safely reach as high and as far as possible while handling heavy loads with the machines.
Quentin D’Hérouël, Product Manager Telehandlers at Doosan Bobcat, concluded: “As with all new Bobcat telehandlers, the R-Series offers customers peace of mind with a 3-year warranty (or 3,000 hours) on the entire machine as standard from the factory. Bobcat is the only manufacturer to provide a 3-year warranty as standard, allowing customers to focus entirely on growing their business without worrying about their machines. And with regards to the cab interior, we’re now the leaders in the field. As we have constantly involved our customers in their design, we’re confident that the new generation machines will be very well received in the marketplace.”
