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

  • Keestrack’s R2 crusher makes an impact
    June 23, 2025
    Keestrack’s R2 impact crusher is mounted on tracks, allowing it to be deployed quickly while its compact size meaning it can operate on sites with limited space.
  • Innovations in plant development
    September 19, 2024
    Several of the major manufacturers are offering key innovations for the asphalt plant segment – Mike Woof writes
  • Asphalt plants reduce emissions, increase efficiency
    February 20, 2012
    Solutions for a reduction in emissions, recycling and more efficiency are being introduced by major asphalt plant manufacturers as Patrick Smith reports. The demand to reduce all types of emissions and increase the use of recycled material has put pressure on industry to come up with answers, and asphalt production is no exception.
  • New mid-range asphalt compactors from BOMAG coming to market
    January 6, 2017
    BOMAG is introducing the first of its Series 5 articulated tandem rollers, which are designed for asphalt compaction. These new machines are in the 6-8tonne weight class and will be followed by other models in the Series 5 line-up towards the end of this year. The machines have been designed around a modular concept and share a number of components and are suited to work in small-medium size projects. They have also been designed so as to offer high manoeuvrability and good visibility for the operator, as w