80% of production from the Pontchâteau factory is targeted for export. (Image source: Bobcat
The world of telescopic handlers has seen some notable milestones achieved in recent months
As a leading global manufacturer of compact equipment with a proud legacy of innovation and smart solutions, Bobcat knows what it takes to provide suitable telescopic handlers that can meet customer material-handling needs, no matter the task.
In establishing this reputation, the company has a (open) secret weapon among its arsenal: the Pontchâteau factory in France which has recently celebrated its 60th operational anniversary. With an illustrious history, the facility now operates as part of the Doosan Bobcat EMEA company and is renowned for its production of telescopic handlers.
“Our current telehandler line-up consists of 14 models in five platforms, with key markets in agriculture, construction and rental… The majority of our production, over 80%, is targeted for export,” remarked Philippe Marescot, Pontchâteau factory manager at Doosan Bobcat EMEA.
In 2023, the factory celebrated another milestone when it manufactured its 111,000th machine – 30,000 of which have been telehandlers carrying the Bobcat logo and colours. With significant investments made in the past decade, the factory has made enhancements to human resources, research and development in order to strengthen its capacity.
Bobcat is not the only one observing a milestone within its operations as Wacker Neuson recently welcomed customers and dealers from the EMEA region at a four-day event under the slogan ‘175 years of Wacker Neuson’.
Among the debut innovations on display was the TH412e, the company’s first fully-electric telehandler. With a lift height of the bucket swivel point at 4.5 m and compact design for use in confined spaces, the machine adds to the company’s emerging low emission portfolio. The 96-Volt lithium ion battery is available in two power ratings and is monitored by a Battery Management System to increase efficiency and safety while ruling out deep discharge. According to Wacker Neuson, the TH412e’s performance features match those of a conventional diesel-operated machine.
Optimising operator experience
Prospective and returning customers of Magni, meanwhile, will be celebrating the latest announcement regarding the company’s TH and RTH ranges.
In a bid to maximise operator experience, Magni has significantly upgraded the on-board software of the two ranges with a graphic redesign to enhance ease of use and new functions identified by icons. New features include a handling mode available on almost the entire RTH range to allow for intelligent and automatic management of the engine speed; eco mode when travelling at a constant speed to reduce fuel consumption and pollution; dedicated pre-settings to optimise the performance of the attachment being used; and joystick function customisation to be implemented during 2024.
In tandem with the new cab for the TH and RTH ranges – officially debuted on the market from September 2023 – the company is certainly making clear its intention to prioritise operator experience for its telehandler offerings.
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