Bobcat’s next Evolution Loaders arrive in Europe
Bobcat is showing its Next Evolution R-Series and new T650 Loaders for the first time in Europe at SaMoTer 2026...
At the SaMoTer 2026 Fair in Verona in Italy from 6-9 May, the star attraction of the impressive product display on the Bobcat stand is the first showing in Europe of the latest evolution of the company’s R-Series Compact Loaders. To further demonstrate the company’s leadership of the compact loader market in Europe, Bobcat is also presenting a new version of the company’s T650 compact tracked loader at SaMoTer.
R-Series: Elevated Operator Experience and Greater Agility
The next generation R-Series skid-steer and compact track loaders introduce significant enhancements in reliability, performance and operator experience. In recognition of these changes, Bobcat has updated the nomenclature of its R‑Series models to identify the latest generation of machines. This approach supports continuous advancement at the model level, allowing new technology and performance enhancements to be introduced more frequently. As updates are rolled out, model name changes provide customers with confirmation that they are getting Bobcat’s most current innovations.
R-Series models include:
Compact Track Loaders: T66-2, T76-2, T86-2
Skid-Steer Loaders: S66-2, S76-2, S86-2
This latest R-Series evolution brings a redesigned electrical system for improved durability, a suite of quality and uptime improvements, the addition of up to 3.7 m (12 ft) lift height capability on the S86/T86-2 models, a new 8-inch touchscreen display with integrated technology and four selectable drive modes that let operators customize machine responsiveness.
Refined Interior and Operator Comfort Enhancements
The R-Series evolution also brings a suite of interior upgrades designed to improve operator comfort, convenience and productivity throughout the workday. Key enhancements include a Redesigned Cab Layout; Modern Charging Options; Enhanced Control Interfaces and Improved Visibility and Accessibility. These updates reflect Bobcat’s focus on delivering a premium operator environment that supports productivity and satisfaction - for long shifts or quick tasks.
8-Inch Touchscreen Display and Advanced Infotainment
To elevate the operator experience, R-Series loaders now come equipped with a state-of-the-art 8-inch colour touchscreen display. This high-resolution display (1280x720) is glove-friendly and designed for intuitive navigation, putting more machine information and controls at the operator’s fingertips. The touchscreen and infotainment upgrades modernize the R-Series loaders, offering operators experience more akin to an automotive or heavy equipment cockpit.
Four Selectable Drive Modes for Customized Control
Another exciting addition in the R-Series refresh is the introduction of four distinct drive modes that the operator can select to adjust the loader’s driving and responsiveness characteristics. This system lets operators choose a mode that best suits their skill or the task at hand, from smooth and steady to fast and aggressive. The four modes - Balanced, Agile, Dynamic and Charged - replace the previous 3-setting drive response with a more noticeable range of options.
3.7 m (12 ft) Lift Height on S86/T86-2 Models – No Compromises
For the S86-2 and T86-2 large-frame models, Bobcat has boosted the lift height to approximately 3.7 m (12 ft) at the hinge pin. This is up from roughly 3.4 m (11 ft), equating to the ability to easily load high-sided dump trucks or stack materials a full 30 cm (one foot) higher than before. Additionally, the S86/T86-2 models now feature an engine power increase from 77 kW (105 HP) to 85.75 kW (115 HP), delivering more raw power for demanding applications.
Enhanced Durability and Maintenance Improvements
In addition to the electrical updates, Bobcat has implemented several quality improvements on the R-Series loaders to increase durability and reduce maintenance needs such as Factory-Installed Frame Seals; Improved Harness and Hose Protection; Relocation of the Hydraulic Sight Gauge and the use of Upgraded Exterior Decals.
“As the industry continues to shift, with a significant portion of the construction workforce projected to retire in coming years, Bobcat is introducing solutions to support operators of every experience level through intuitive controls, smarter systems and simplified operation. This is all aimed at enhancing reliability, durability and user experience of Bobcat R-Series loaders, ensuring dealers and customers see tangible benefits: less downtime and enhanced capabilities on the job,” said Katinka Kincses, Bobcat Product Manager for loaders.
The New T650 - Enhancing a Mainstay of the European Loader Market
Bobcat is expanding its portfolio with the new T650 Stage V compact track loader, engineered for highly regulated markets across Europe and other Stage V regions. Built at the Bobcat plant in Dobris in the Czech Republic, the T650 combines the proven performance of this 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 55 kW (74 HP), the machine offers strong, efficient performance for demanding applications.
Despite its compact footprint, the new T650 delivers impressive work capacity with a vertical lift path and 1192 kg rated operating capacity, making it ideal for truck loading, pallet handling and earthmoving in confined or sensitive job sites.
Designed for durability and uptime, the T650 features a robust steel frame, efficient cooling, broad attachment compatibility with the proprietary Bob-Tach™ mounting system, optional High-Flow hydraulics and standard Machine IQ telematics for smarter fleet management. Operator comfort and precise control complete the package, making the T650 a versatile, dependable solution for year-round work.
Productivity and comfort meet signature Bobcat toughness in the T650, which packs a lot of power and refinement in a compact body. This model can be used in any application, as it offers unmatched agility, precise controls and best-in-class cycle times.
The T650 is also an excellent tool carrier, making use of customers’ existing Bobcat attachments with unrestricted compatibility. Thanks to the forward cab position and fully transparent door, operators always have a full and direct view of the attachment and the job site. And with the powerful LED working lights, they will continue to be productive even in low-light conditions.
Katinka Kincses commented: “The compact track loader sector is highly important in Italy and the rest of Europe due to the nature of the work in progress such as road maintenance, infrastructure construction or the laying of fibre optic networks. Bobcat is very well positioned thanks to its range of models and in particular the T650 and now the new T76-2 and T86-2 track loaders."