Video | Bobcat splits North American compact loader range as tech features expand

The changes were revealed during a polished presentation at ConExpo in Las Vegas that would not have looked out of place at a Silicon Valley technology launch, underlining the growing emphasis manufacturers are placing on software, automation and operator-assist systems.

The Pro machines are bristling with technology, including voice commands, multiple drive modes and camera- and radar-based operator awareness systems.

The update applies specifically to North America and represents a significant restructuring of Bobcat’s compact loader portfolio. Rather than grouping machines into traditional series, the company has divided the range into two distinct tiers designed to simplify product selection and accelerate the rollout of new technology.

“Nearly 70 years ago, Bobcat introduced the world’s first compact loader, defining an entirely new way to work on the jobsite,” said Mike Ballweber, president of Doosan Bobcat North America. “This evolution of Bobcat loaders builds on that legacy by pairing the power and durability our customers expect with intelligence and simplicity designed for a changing workforce.”

A new Bobcat T76-2 compact tracked loader (Image: Bobcat)

New two-tier structure

The Classic category focuses on proven machine performance with familiar controls and competitive pricing. They will target landscapers, rental fleets and general construction applications.

Classic models include the T450, T595, T650 and T770 compact track loaders and the S70, S450, S590, S650 and S770 skid-steer loaders. Operators can use selectable joystick controls or optional hand-and-foot controls, alongside features such as two-speed travel, automatic ride control and keyless ignition.

The Pro category introduces more advanced technologies and operator-focused systems. Models include the T64-2, T66-2, T76-2 and T86-2 compact track loaders, as well as the S64-2, S66-2, S76-2 and S86-2 skid-steer loaders.

Among the most notable changes in the Pro line-up are four selectable drive modes designed to tailor machine response to different tasks:

• Balanced mode for controlled, precise work
• Agile mode for general applications
• Dynamic mode for faster cycle times
• Charged mode for maximum responsiveness in open areas

The new machines also incorporate weight reductions and structural changes intended to improve agility, along with redesigned electrical systems and an updated cab with an eight-inch touchscreen display, infotainment and an integrated rear camera.

At the top end of the range, the T86-2 and S86-2 models deliver 115 horsepower and a lift height of up to 12 feet, which Bobcat said sets a new benchmark for the lineup.

Voice commands through Jobsite Companion

Bobcat is also introducing new operator-assist technology options on Pro machines.

The Jobsite Companion system, described by the company as the first AI-enabled solution in the compact equipment segment, allows operators to control certain machine functions using voice commands, enabling them to keep their hands on the controls while automating more than 50 machine functions (see demonstration in the video above).

The system, which is an option on Pro machines, can also provide real-time jobsite insights and includes a dashboard that tracks operating costs against job estimates with the aim of improving profit on projects.

Bobcat is also launching jobsite awareness systems using cameras and radar to improve operator visibility and safety. Options include rear-view or wide-area camera systems, radar-based rear object detection and avoidance, and camera-based 360-degree people detection alerts.

Brad Claus, senior vice president of North America construction equipment at Bobcat, said the new structure would allow the manufacturer to introduce updates more quickly.

“With our shift from series to categories, we will release innovations more frequently at the model level, without waiting for an entirely new series to launch,” he said.

The updated loader line-up is expected to reach select North American dealerships from summer 2026.

Bobcat’s Jobsite Companion will be available on machines in the Pro range in North America (Image: Bobcat)

Different approach in Europe, Middle East and Africa

Bobcat said the way the machines are categorised differs outside North America. In Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), the company continues to market the latest generation of loaders under its R-Series designation rather than adopting the new Classic and Pro split.

The latest R-Series machines carry updated model identifiers, such as T66-2, T76-2 and T86-2 compact track loaders and S66-2, S76-2 and S86-2 skid-steer loaders, intended to signal the newest generation of machines.

Some of the advanced technology demonstrated at ConExpo will also initially remain limited to North America. Bobcat’s Jobsite Companion system, which allows operators to control functions using voice commands, is currently only offered on selected machines in the United States.

A company spokesperson explained to Construction Briefing that the complexity of enabling voice-controlled systems to operate across multiple languages, as well as differing regulatory frameworks between countries, means the technology has not yet been rolled out in EMEA markets. However, Bobcat said it is working towards making the system available in those regions in the future.

Operator view of the new Bobcat T86-2 (Image: Bobcat)