Yanmar Compact Equipment has introduced a new generation of its ViO17 and ViO25 mini excavators.
The new ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B have feature upgrades that improve operator comfort, convenience and ease of use.
According to Yanmar, its new ViO17-1E is best suited for residential work, landscaping and small general construction projects and, while the ViO25-6B also excels in these applications, its range of applications extends further due to its additional size and power.
“Operators will appreciate the upgraded features in these new generation models,” said Jeff Pate, director of sales at Yanmar Compact Equipment North America. “From improved operator comfort and lighting to enhanced attachment coupling, the improvements make long days in the cab a little easier.”
Performance
The ViO17-1E features a 1,825-kilogram (4,023-pound) operating weight and 14.5-horsepower engine, while the ViO25-6B features a 2,635-kilogram (5,908-pound) operating weight and 20.4-horsepower engine.
Both models feature a light footprint for minimized damage to soft, delicate surfaces in landscaping, residential and sculpting applications.
Also, despite their small size, the models feature dig depths of 2.31 m (7 ft, 7 in) for the ViO17-1E and 3.05 m (10 ft) for the ViO25-6B.
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In 1993, Yanmar became the first first manufacturer to incorporate a zero tail swing counterweight. So, naturally, the ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B both feature true zero tail swing technology, which helps to protect the machine, and any nearby structures, when working in tight spaces.
Additionally, the ViO17-1E has a unique, retractable undercarriage that allows operators to hydraulically adjust the width of the track, making it easy for operators to gain access to areas that have narrow entryways.
Efficiency
Yanmar claims that, because of various added features, operators will find it easy to work efficiently in both of the next-gen models.
For example, standard PTO quick-connect fittings allow operators to switch between attachments quickly.
Another example is the integration of an LED onto the boom, which makes it easier to illuminate work areas.
Additionally, the ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B have been upgraded to a four-point tie system, making it easier to load and unload the machines and providing more stability during transportation.
To minimize operator fatigue and further improve efficiency, Yanmar added a new seat, an ergonomic throttle and improved the positions of the displays in both machines. With these changes to the cab, Yanmar claims to have created a more intuitive experience that will reduce the overall time needed for operator training.
For added productivity and efficiency on the jobsite, the ViO25-6B features ECO Mode, Auto-Decel Mode and auto shift 2-speed travel as standard.
ECO Mode helps to extend engine life, lengthen oil change intervals and reduce fuel consumption by reducing engine speed and power draw when not needed.
Also, the auto shift 2-speed travel design shifts the machines between low- and high-range automatically, leading to smoother transitions between tasks.
Technology
The ViO25-6B includes SmartAssist Remote, Yanmar’s telematics system, at no cost for five years.
Using the integrated theft protection, fleet managers can set a range from a specific location or a starting time, triggering SmartAssist Remote to send a notification if that range is exceeded.
Furthermore, SmartAssist Remote can detect errors related to the machine’s electronic components and send notifications to service personnel, and directly to Yanmar, to streamline the diagnostic process.
Additionally, the machine’s owner can view the operational status of the equipment in real time and view daily work reports that track use of the excavator, useful data that can improve jobsite productivity over time.
Finally, SmartAssist Remote can track maintenance intervals and inspection items as well as notify the owner via email about upcoming maintenance requirements.
Reliability
For added durability, cylinder guards have been strategically placed in front of the cylinders on the boom, arm and bucket to protect them from impact.
According to Yanmar, it is a company known for the reliability of its engines. Reinforcing this confidence is a 4-year/4,000-hour warranty on its mini excavators.
Yanmar Compact Equipment will showcase the ViO17-1E at the Equip Exposition from October 18th to the 21st in Louisville, Kentucky.
