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

  • Earthmoving market introductions
    February 11, 2020
    Earthmoving innovations are coming to market in the shape of new excavators and wheeled loaders
  • Major improvements for wheeled loaders and excavators
    April 24, 2013
    Excavators and wheeled loaders benefit from new engine technology - Mike Woof reports. Competition is tough in the market for crawler excavators and wheeled loaders. These production machines account for a significant percentage of the entire construction equipment market worldwide and the segment also has the widest array of competing manufacturers. In the past, European, Japanese and US manufacturers dominated this sector but in the last 20 years South Korean companies have built significant market shares
  • Excavator advances for the earthmoving sector
    May 26, 2021
    Manufacturers are introducing an array of new excavators and improved models
  • Innovative solutions to earthmoving needs
    January 3, 2013
    Several manufacturers are offering improved earthmoving machines, with more to come - Mike Woof reports. One of the most notable developments comes from Caterpillar, with the unveiling of a hybrid excavator in the shape of its 336E H model. The machine is having its public launch at the bauma exhibition in Spring 2013 and will start rolling out of the factory in March 2013, while customers will be able to place orders from February 2013. Unlike other hybrid excavators on the market at present, the Cat 336E