Bobcat debut new R-Series and T650 loaders at Hillhead 2026

WITH their prominent positions on the Bobcat stand, the enhanced S76-2 R-Series skid-steer and T650 compact track loaders made their grand UK market debut at Hillhead 2026. The new S76-2 and T650 loaders were part of the static display on the Bobcat stand, and the E16 and E19 models from the new R2-Series 1-2 tonne mini-excavator range were operating continuously in the stand’s demonstration area.

The new-generation R2-Series also made its first appearance at Hillhead alongside some of the latest models across the Bobcat telehandler, mini-excavator, loader, light compaction, and attachment ranges.

The next-generation R-Series skid-steer and compact track loaders introduce significant enhancements to operator experience, performance, and reliability. The new R-Series is the next evolution of the Bobcat compact loader range, delivering more choice, more control, and more operator-ready technology across the industry’s most expansive compact loader portfolio.

The next evolution R-Series models include:

• Skid-Steer Loaders S66-2, S76-2, S86-2
• Compact Track Loaders: T66-2, T76-2, T86-2

The new T650 Stage V compact track loader expands the Bobcat loader portfolio and has been engineered for highly regulated markets across Europe, including the UK and other Stage V regions. Built at the Bobcat plant in the Czech Republic, the T650 combines the proven performance of the 600-frame M-Series loader with full Stage V emissions compliance – without the need for AdBlue. Powered by a reliable 2.4-litre Bobcat engine delivering 55kW (74hp), the machine delivers strong, efficient performance for demanding applications.

Despite its compact footprint, the new T650 delivers impressive work capacity with a vertical lift path and a rated operating capacity of 1,192 kg, making it ideal for truck loading, pallet handling and earthmoving in confined or sensitive job sites.

Katinka Kincses, Bobcat product manager for loaders, commented: ‘The compact track loader sector is very important in the UK with the high demand for road maintenance and repair, utilities and infrastructure construction or the laying of fibre optic networks. Bobcat is very well positioned thanks to its range of models, including the new R2-Series and the enhanced T650.’

The groundbreaking R2-Series 1-2 tonne mini-excavators comprise the E16, E17z, E19 and E20z models. They offer a fresh look, signifying new levels of performance and features, including a high-performance SmartFlow load-sensing hydraulic system with a closed-centre, flow-sharing pump powered by an upgraded engine, providing a sophisticated engineering set up that is unique in smaller machines like these. This combination essentially provides the on-demand power seen in larger excavators.

The E17z is a zero-housing-swing (ZHS) mini-excavator with an operating weight of 1,712kg, is optimized for transport and operation in confined areas in historic towns and urban environments. The new E19 is a conventional model with an operating weight of 1,905kg. It is an ideal machine for customers seeking maximum performance in a compact package.

Elsewhere on the stand, visitors could see a wide selection of Bobcat equipment, including telehandlers, light compaction equipment, the E19e electric mini-excavator, and the E88 mini-excavator equipped with the new LT120 trencher attachment, highlighting the breadth of the company's compact equipment offering.