Skip to main content

SmartFlow for Bobcat’s R2-Series mini excavators

By David Arminas June 16, 2025 Read time: 1 min
Bobcat’s R2-Series introduces several new features, notably its high-performance SmartFlow hydraulic system

Bobcat’s new “groundbreaking” R2-Series 1-2 tonne mini excavator models are designed to boost customer productivity.

The series includes the E16, E17z, E19 and E20z models, replacing the previous M-Series E17, E17z, E19 and E20z machines, respectively, that were introduced in 2014.

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 maximise hydraulic flow, while using minimum energy for operation.  

These changes allow the operator to tackle challenging jobs, while lowering fuel consumption by up to 18%. Bobcat also reduced the operating noise by up to 3dBA compared to the previous generation. This represents a significant decrease of 50% in sound energy, meaning a noticeably quieter machine on the job site.
 

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • OEMs unveil raft of major new excavator and wheeled loader models
    May 13, 2025
    Original equipment manufacturers have launched a range of new excavators and wheeled loaders including electric models, and features such as autonomous driving, remote control advanced driver assistance and special applications. Liam McLoughlin reports.
  • Doosan Bobcat targeting Middle East and Africa
    June 25, 2018
    Doosan Bobcat aims to develop its market presence in key emergent markets, with a focus on the Middle East and Africa in particular. Important launches for the firm are the new backhoe loader and DPP 20-60kVA generator models. The four-model backhoe loader range all has power from a 4.4litre Perkins 1104C-44T diesel that features direct fuel injection and delivers 74.5kW at 2200rpm and a maximum torque of 408Nm at 1350rpm. The models are the B700, B730, B750 and B780 and are said to be highly versatile, wh
  • Farnham Tool Hire excavator fleet now exclusively Bobcat
    October 24, 2016
    Since being acquired eight years ago by the current owner, Farnham Tool Hire, based in Farnham, southern England, the company has grown from three units to 18 machines and is now is exclusively of Bobcat micro- and mini-excavators. All Farnham’s machines have been supplied by Bobcat of London, the authorised Bobcat dealer for London and south-east England. Farnham Tool Hire bought its first Bobcat excavators six years ago and now offers a choice of models from 1-3tonnes. The latest additions to the
  • New soil compactor launches from key manufacturers
    May 30, 2013
    Major manufacturers continue to develop new soil compactor models - Mike Woof reports. Innovations in machine design are being seen in the soil compaction sector from a number of major firms. As in other equipment sectors, new engine emissions legislation has played a huge role in driving the latest design changes. Europe, the US and Japan are rolling in the new Tier 4 Final/Stage IV legislation on noise and exhaust emissions which will be phased in across power output classes from the start of January 2014