Bobcat is looking to its latest seven-model agricultural range of R-series telehandlers to further improve its presence and accelerate growth in all farming markets.

“With these new models and the increased investment in our telehandler business, we are aiming to double the production of Bobcat telescopic loaders by 2025,” comments president, Gustavo Otero of Doosan Bobcat EMEA.

Developed and made at the company’s plant at Pontchâteau, France, and covering maximum lift capacities from 2.6t and 4.3t and lift heights from 6.0m to 8.0m. The new range comprises three compact models (TL26.60, TL30.60 and TL30.70) and four large models (TL35.70, TL34.65HF, TL38.70HF and TL43.80HF).

Taking three years to develop, the new models retain the box-welded frame design, which protects the transmission and hydraulics and lowers the centre of gravity.

The steeper profile of the new bonnet increases visibility and reduces blind spots by a claimed 15% on the right hand side. There is improved access to the engine compartment and the  upgraded versions of the Bobcat D34 engine (most powerful of which is135hp) uses DPF after-treatment to meet Stage V emissions.

The main talking point, though, is the redesigned cab, which has a wider door and single access step. Interior noise levels are said to be down by a half and the revised interior provides more storage space, a new air suspended and heated seat, new multifunctional joystick, colour-coded backlit controls and new LCD colour display (larger 7-inch touchscreen with built-in radio and a phone page are also available). There is also a rear view camera and 360-degree LED work lights.

Controlled using the index finger, the FNR button on the rear of the joystick allows the actuation of the usual boom and auxiliary functions, plus new ones such as Auto Grab, bucket shaking, boom float and speed shifting.

On the transmission front, the Dynamic mode provides faster forward and backward shifting and more rapid acceleration and deceleration phases.

Using the hand throttle, the Flex Drive mode manages forward speed independently from the engine speed with the right pedal and no need to play with the left inching pedal in the approach phase. A new fourth semi-crab mode allows the operator to keep the rear wheels in a desired position and to steer the machine with the front wheels.

Agri finishing levels now include the new Agri 4 star pack, and all R-series models come with a three-year (or 3,000-hour) warranty. This is extendable to five years or 5,000 hours.