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

  • Doosan highlights new wheeled excavators
    January 6, 2017
    Doosan’s two new Stage IV/Tier 4 Final wheeled excavators are said to set a new benchmark for wheeled excavator design globally. The 17tonne DX170W-5 and 21tonne DX210W-5 models boast a distinctive new machine styling scheme common to all new Stage IV/Tier 4 Final Doosan machines. Launched earlier this month (February 2015), Both wheeled excavators are said to offer enhanced comfort and controllability together with new features to improve fuel efficiency, uptime and return on investment. There is also a f
  • High wheeled loading performance
    July 18, 2012
    High specification wheeled loaders are now available from an array of firms, Mike Woof reports In the competitive market for wheeled loaders, Caterpillar, Komatsu and Volvo CE are strong worldwide players with sales figures that many rivals would like to emulate. Their quality products also demand good resale values due to a reputation for longevity, yet other firms are also filling the gap in terms of quality and performance. An array of manufacturers are introducing improved machines to the European marke
  • New wheeled loaders are coming to market
    August 10, 2021
    Several improved wheeled loader models are now being offered by major manufacturers
  • Revamped mini excavators from Hyundai
    October 30, 2024
    Hyundai is widening its array of compact machines.