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.
 

Maintenance

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Efficient aggregate production with new technology
    December 9, 2022
    New equipment is providing major benefits for aggregate production, offering superior product quality as well as increased throughput, while also being able to better meet sustainability targets for customers
    Read More
  • Hitachi’s new high production ZX870LCH-5 excavator
    February 8, 2013
    With an operating weight of 83.8 – 86tonnes, Hitachi’s giant ZX870LCH-5 excavator is said to be built to operate on the most demanding job sites, such as large-scale construction projects and in busy quarries. The model incorporates the HIOS IIIB hydraulic system, said to allow for faster operation with lower fuel consumption and increased front speed. The ZX870LCH-5 is claimed to have 6% more productivity in H/P mode compared to the previous Zaxis model. Swing torque is also said to have increased by 9% an
    Read More
  • Caterpillar has developed new wheeled loader solutions
    September 30, 2013
    Caterpillar’s new wheeled loader represents a new direction in the firm’s aim to develop machines to meet specific needs - Mike Woof reports Caterpillar’s 986H and 988K wheeled loaders are significant introductions for the firm, having been developed to meet the needs of entirely different market segments. The 988K takes the place of the earlier 988H model and this new machine features the latest low emission engine technology, suiting it to use in North America and Europe. Powered by a 403kW diesel the mac
    Read More
  • Asphalt paving developments
    March 13, 2012
    US and European asphalt paving needs are different, but some firms are bridging that gap, reports Mike Woof. With a clear differentiation between the US and European asphalt paving markets, manufacturers from the latter are now developing machines aimed at the former. The US and European markets for paving machines have developed along very different lines. North American pavers are designed for high throughputs and high paving rates, having been designed to meet a need to build roads over long distances wi
    Read More

Highlighted Content