Manitou gave a preview of its Gehl electric skid loader concept at Conexpo 2020, highlighting the group’s focus on alternative energies. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, this zero emissions concept machine has been designed based on the R 165 compact skid loader model, with the same rated capacity of 750 kg.  

Noise levels are reduced drastically in this new concept machine, making it ideal for sites where noise emissions are a particularly sensitive issue, such as schools, hospitals, shopping malls and other highly populated areas. Another key advantage is the machine’s simplified servicing, thanks to the reduction in the quantity of hydraulic oil needed.

Manitou also showcased its Gehl RT 135 compact track loader at Conexpo. The machine was launched in September 2019, meeting the needs of rental companies. It is highly compact and easy to use, thanks to its pilot joystick, which facilitates manoeuvring. This model is suitable for renovation projects and landscaping works.

Equipped with an automatic track tensioning system, Ideal Trax, the Gehl RT 135 features a load capacity of up to 612 kg, a hydraulic flow of 64 l/min and a maximum lift height of 2.80 m. According to Manitou, the loader has an hourly preventive maintenance cost of S$1.07/h (€0.97/h), which is 30% less than previous versions. Such a difference can partly be explained by an increase in oil drain intervals: 1,000 hours vs 500 hours previously for hydraulic oil, and 500 hours vs 250 hours for engine oil.