Bobcat has launched new 500 and 600 series compact loader models, expanding the range to 15 models for the Middle East and Africa. The new machines include the S510/S530/S570/S590 and S630/S650 skid-steer loaders and the T590 compact track loader. All the new models are manufactured at the Bobcat compact equipment plant for MEA in the Czech Republic.
The 500 and 600 series loaders are designed to provide operators with increased performance, enhanced comfort and optimised maintenance requirements to maximise job site efficiency.
Lift arm configurations: The S510, S550 and S630 radius lift path loaders combine the capabilities of manoeuvrability in tight areas with the reach and visibility needed for applications such as dumping materials over walls, backfilling or loading flatbed trucks. The S530, S570, S590, T590 and S650 vertical lift path loaders feature boom arms particularly suited to lift and carry as well as material-handling applications.
Engines: The new models are powered with new Tier 4 interim engines, such as the Kubota V2403 engine in the S510 and S530 models; Kubota V2607 in the S550, S570, S590 and T590 models; and Kubota V3307 in the S630 and S650 models. The new engines deliver increased engine torque with lower idle at the same horsepower, which allows the loaders to be dedicated to jobs that demand more power. Coupled with a new high-flow hydraulics option, this further expands their versatility, allowing them to be used with higher flow attachments such as sweepers, planers and wheel saws.
Operator comfort: The cloth suspension seat option is available for all the new models to improve the operator’s comfort in hot weather and provide more comfortable seating on slopes and inclines. Complementing this, Bobcat continues to offer other popular comfort features in all eight new models, including cushioned lift and tilt cylinders. Another option available in all the new models is ‘auto ride control’, which improves operator comfort while driving with a load in the bucket on rough terrain.
Gaby Rhayem, regional director–Middle East and Africa, Doosan Bobcat EMEA, said: “The new 500 and 600 series introduce a fresh look for our market-leading loaders in MEA. They are designed to continue the success of the Bobcat range globally, where nearly one out of every two skid-steer loaders on the market is a Bobcat machine.”
Joystick control for the S450 loader: Bobcat is offering the joystick controls (JC) option for the S450 skid-steer loader to make it easier to operate the machine and attachments. The JC system provides the operator with Bobcat-exclusive features and fingertip switches. This automatically configures the loader as a tool carrier for working all day with the widest possible selection of attachments, as well as providing increased operator comfort and joystick control of the loader itself. Features incorporated with the JC option include H/ISO operating modes, foot and hand throttle, speed management, drive response, horsepower management and steering drift compensation.
Versatile duty tyres: The new loaders can be equipped with the option of versatile duty tyres with a bi-directional design for use on most common mixed surfaces. Industrial solid flex tyres are available as an option and are designed for intensive wear applications that have a higher risk of punctures.