Bobcat has announced a new generation of compact telehandlers, the 3,000kg/six metre TL360 and 3,500kg/seven metre TL470.

The TL360 replaces both the T2556 and the T2566 models while the TL470 replaces the T3571 and T3571HD. Both machines offer a lift capacity at full height of 3,000kg. The maximum forward reach on the TL360 is 3.36 metres with a 1,300kg capacity, while the TL470 goes to four metre with 1,500kg.

The patented asymmetric cab is wide and, according to the company takes visibility to a new level by offering an unobstructed view across the rear of the machine. With very little structure behind the cab and a low boom pivot point there are few blind spots.

The new Bobcat TL470

An optional all-glass door further increases visibility to the left side of the machine, giving the operator an excellent and reducing the risk of damage to the machine or surrounding objects.

Both units are powered by a 100HP/74.5 kW Perkins 1104D-44T diesel coupled to a standard 100l/min gear pump. An optional 190l/min load sensing pump offers faster speeds and better performance.

The forward/reverse control function is located on the joystick, while drive direction is selected at the touch of a button, allowing for fast, easy changes between forward and reverse.

The structure is entirely new with a more robust main frame design, while the boom features a fully integrated boom head, larger cross section and increased boom section overlap, to cope with tough loading applications.

A comprehensive range of optional features, including a 40 km/h travel speed, boom suspension area available, along with a wide variety of attachments. The TL360 weighs 6,110kg and the TL740 7,130KG.

Vertikal Comment

These two new Bobcats look very good and offer good all round performance at the smaller end of the regular/mid-size straight frame class. However they do not appear to excel in a paper specification for specification comparison with the market leaders, as you might expect a totally new product, designed from the ground up to do.

Bobcat really needs to build a better moustrap if it is to make a more significant impact on the telescopic handler market. It has been in the market for getting on 30 years, since it acquired Sambron in the 1980s. If it is going to move into the top five it really needs to do more than be a good me-too. Somthing that is not easy in this market.

These products will give its dealers a much better chance to win business in this product sector, but on paper they do not appear to be radical enough to change the status quo. However the proof will be in how they perform and how well they are marketed and distributed - and perhaps when it comes down to it, these latter points are what really makes the diference in the telehandler market.