Bobcat has launched its brand new T40180 telescopic handler at the third instalment of INTERMAT Middle East.
The first unit to leave the factory was showcased on the stand of Kanoo Machinery: the compact equipment manufacturer’s authorised UAE dealer.
With its four-tonne maximum lift capacity and a maximum lift height of 17.5m, the T40180 is the largest model in Bobcat’s telehandler line. The machine also boasts a maximum forward reach of 13.7m, and a tilt crowding force of 12,300daN.
Bobcat, which forms part of the Doosan Infracore family, chose to launch the new telehandler at INTERMAT Middle East because of the audience-related benefits offered by the event.
“We could have arranged a separate launch for the T40180, but we decided to use INTERMAT Middle East as a launch pad instead,” said Gaby Rhayem, Doosan Infracore’s regional director in the Middle East and Africa. “This made most sense because it enables us to present the machine to our partners, customers and show attendees.
“We pushed hard to secure the first ever T40180 for the Kanoo stand,” he continued. “This is the model’s global launch. It was serendipitous that INTERMAT Middle East coincided with our preferred launch window. It made sense to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Speaking on the second-day of the show, Rhayem explained how he and his colleagues orchestrated a three-stage unveiling for the new telehandler.
“First of all, we invited dealers to come and take a look at the machine,” he said. “After that, we invited our customers. Today is UAE day; we are meeting with interested parties from across the country.”
The range-topping telehandler has been designed predominantly for applications within the construction sector. Indeed, the improved specifications of the machine have been welcomed by Bobcat’s partners in the Middle East, according to Rhayem.
“Our dealers are very happy with the T40180 because they now have a machine that can deliver a higher capacity and an improved lift height to customers,” he said. “Every new machine launched by Bobcat includes a broad array of new features, and this telehandler is no exception. The designers have made a number of technical and operational improvements, such as a joystick that incorporates the reverse function for ease of use, and a new side-shift system that allows the machine to be moved 700mm in either direction, even when its stabilisers are engaged.”
The INTERMAT Middle East product launch forms part of Bobcat’s wider campaign to spread brand awareness and increase its market share, both in the Middle East and on the international stage.
“In March, Bobcat will have a significant presence at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2014 in Las Vegas,” said Rhayem. “Events such as INTERMAT and CONEXPO are very important in terms of our strategy for growth. They form an important part of the company’s global strategy to reach out to the market. We will not miss these opportunities.”
For full coverage of INTERMAT Middle East 2014, check out the February issue of PMV Middle East.
