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New Generation of Bobcat 1-2 t Mini Excavators: Unbeatable Performance in a Small Package
At Bauma 2025, Bobcat is presenting the company’s new groundbreaking R2-Series 1-2 tonne mini excavator models for the first time, alongside a new upgrade to the R2-Series E88 mini excavator, the top-of-the-range model in Europe.
Along with its new mini excavator models designed to boost customer productivity, the Bobcat stand highlights the company’s cutting-edge technologies that are transitioning from ‘concepts to customers.’ Stand visitors have the opportunity to see the RogueX autonomous concept loader, the T7X all-electric compact track loader, the E10e and E19e electric mini excavators and the TL25.60e electric telehandler concept.
New SmartFlow Hydraulic System for Maximum Productivity
The new generation R2-Series 1-2 tonne mini excavators include the E16, E17z, E19 and E20z models, replacing the previous M-Series E17, E17z, E19 and E20z machines, respectively. The M-Series, originally introduced in 2014, has now been succeeded by the R2-Series, marking a decade of advancements. The new models offer a fresh look, signifying new levels of performance and features that are designed to meet customer needs found across the European market.
The R2-Series introduces several new features, notably its high-performance SmartFlow hydraulic system. This system uses load-sensing pump bundled with a closed center/flow-sharing main control valve. All of this is powered by a new engine, creating an engineering setup that is exceptionally sophisticated for compact machines of this size.
This combination essentially provides the power on demand seen in larger excavators, ensuring continuously available power that improves precision and efficiency. The new mini excavators maximize hydraulic flow, while utilizing minimum energy for operation.
Like in larger machines, the new hydraulic system in the new 1-2 tonne mini excavators allows the operator to smoothly carry out multiple functions simultaneously. When working with equipment that requires a lot of hydraulic power, such as a flail mower on a quick coupler running at full speed, the operator can drive, slew and lift smoothly at the same time.
Less Fuel, Less Noise, Less Vibration
These changes allow the operator to tackle challenging jobs, while lowering fuel consumption by up to 18%.
“We reduced the operating noise by up to 3 dBA compared to the previous generation. This represents a significant decrease of 50% in sound energy, meaning a noticeably quieter machine on the job site. This not only enhances operator comfort but also reduces noise impact on surrounding environments, making the excavator better suited for urban and noise-sensitive areas,” said Robert Husar, Product Line Director for Bobcat in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Next-Gen Performance Built on 34,000 Units of Experience
“The new 1-2 tonne mini excavator models build on the successes of the previous generation of machines with well over 34,000 units already retailed. After 3 years of development, the new models, featuring over 500 new components, will be available in the European, Middle Eastern and African (EMEA) markets later this year,” said Robert Husar.
Replacing the E17, the new E16 is a more lightweight machine, shedding 100 kg for a total operating weight of 1612 kg. Thanks to its reduced weight, it stays within critical transport limits, making it easily transportable via vans and trailers across most EU countries. Retaining the compact dimensions of its predecessor, the E16 is well-suited for work in tight or restricted spaces.
The E17z, a Zero House Swing (ZHS) mini excavator, takes the benefits of Zero Tail Swing (ZTS) a step further by providing additional protection for the front upper structure corners within the swing radius. With an operating weight of 1712 kg, the E17z is designed for seamless transport and excels in confined environments such as historic districts and densely built urban areas, making it a preferred choice in many European city centres.
Like the E16, the new E19 is a conventional model, and it has an operating weight of 1905 kg. A bestseller in the previous generation, this machine is a top choice among customers looking for maximum performance in a compact machine. The new E19 offers a unique combination of superior lift capacity and class-leading digging performance, all while maintaining a machine mass below 2 tonne.
Top of the line, the new E20z, a unique and popular model in Western Europe, has an operating weight of 1980 kg. As a ZHS excavator, it provides 320° of free rotation when working close to structures, without compromising operator comfort or performance. It features a full-size cab, which is a true differentiator in its category as the standard market offering is a canopy-only option.
Like all Bobcat machines, all new Bobcat mini excavators come equipped with the Machine IQ telematics system, allowing operators to monitor machine performance remotely.