Bobcat Company is expanding its compact excavator lineup with the introduction of the new E17 and the next-generation model of the E20 compact excavator.
Both compact excavators will be available in Canada and the United Sates in November.
The machines will make their debut at The Utility Expo, held Oct. 7-9, in Louisville, Kentucky.
“We know our customers need machines that can deliver big results in tight spaces,” said Michael Wetzel, Director Product Management at Bobcat Company.
“The new E17 and E20 excavators are purpose-built for that challenge. They’re mini workhorses that give operators the power and lift capacity they need to tackle demanding jobs.”
Both models offer key features designed to improve performance, productivity and operator comfort.
For example, the load sensing pump and a closed-centre hydraulic system deliver smooth, responsive control and precise positioning while fingertip controls reduce operator fatigue.
RELATED: Bobcat introduces tank-mounted air compressor series
To make transport easier, Bobcat also incorporated improved lift-point locations, convenient tie-down points and an automatic slew brake.
The compact excavators are also built with easy-opening covers, top light protection, under-boom lighting, wider clearance between the upper structure and tracks, improved cylinder fittings and long-life tracks.
E17 compact excavator
Equipped with a 15-hp diesel engine, the new E17 weighs 1,712 kg is engineered to empower operators of all skill levels.
Its in-track swing frame and zero-tail-swing design allow for unrestricted rotation, enhancing maneuverability while working close to objects, against a wall or when repositioning where space is limited.
Operators can easily adjust the machine’s footprint by hydraulically retracting the undercarriage from its full 1.3 metre stance down to just 98 cm, making it easy to maneuver through narrow entryways and confined spaces.
For added flexibility, the dozer blade can be manually folded to match the compact width, ensuring seamless access and transport in tight environments.
With a 366-kg lift capacity, the E17 is ideal for landscaping, residential construction and rental fleets.
Other features include:
- Low-effort joystick with fingertip controls for quick and precise boom swing and auxiliary movement control
- Improved operator comfort with a spacious flat floor and wider steps for easier entry and exit
- Bright LED lighting for low light environments
- Standard pin-on attachment system with optional mechanical pin grabber coupler and clamp
- Standard canopy configuration
E20 compact excavator
Also powered by a 15-hp diesel engine, the next-generation E20 compact excavator delivers a 498-kg rated lift capacity, delivering 24 per cent more arm digging force and 26 per cent more lifting capacity over the blade than the previous model.
Like the E17, the E20 features a zero tail-swing design, in-track swing frame and retractable undercarriage for enhanced maneuverability.
The 1,895-kg compact excavator includes operator-focused upgrades like smooth, responsive controls to keep comfort and productivity at the forefront. The optional enclosed cab with heat improves operator comfort with standard features like a Bluetooth radio, auto idle, auto shift, 3D grab handles and reduced noise levels.
Other features include:
- A closed-centre hydraulic system with a new load-sensing pump and larger boom and blade cylinders
- Standard-equipped long arm increases maximum reach, digging depth and additional dump height
- Standard-equipped long blade for improved grading and backfilling
- Premium joystick with fingertip controls for precise boom swing and auxiliary movement control
- Auto idle, auto shift and 3D grab handles
“Ultimately, our goal is to help operators succeed on every job,” Wetzel said. “The E17 and E20 give them the power to work faster, the precision to work smarter and the agility to work where other machines can’t. These are not just new excavators; they are versatile solutions that help our customers work more efficiently and more profitably.”
