Bobcat Debuts All-Electric Skid-Steer Loader, Two Concept Machines at Conexpo
Published: 16/6, 2023
Following the 2022 release of the Bobcat T7X, the world’s first all-electric compact track loader, Bobcat unveiled the world’s first all-electric skid-steer loader, the S7X, at Conexpo 2023.
Like the T7X, the S7X is all electric, as it is powered by a 60.5-kWh, lithium-ion battery, features electric drive motors and utilizes ball screw actuators for lift and tilt functions. Together, the battery and electrical powertrain generate incredible performance characteristics, with instantaneous torque that is as much as three times greater than traditional loaders. The powerful loader balances sustainability and performance with zero emissions and is equipped to outperform its diesel-powered equivalent. This skid-steer loader offers operators a smooth and comfortable experience with minimal vibration and nearly silent operation. Currently considered a prototype machine, the S7X can operate for up to 8 hours on a single charge depending on the application, giving most operators more than a full day’s work when breaks and downtime are considered. A full charge takes approximately 10 hours.
RogueX: concept machine that breaks all the rules
Conexpo visitors also got their first look at the Bobcat RogueX autonomous concept machine, which is still in the early research and development stage. While most closely resembling a track loader, RogueX was built as a proving ground with consideration for the worksite of the future and how a customer’s needs may evolve. Areas being evaluated include ease of use, remote operations, autonomous functionality, sustainable operations, and other features to explore the idea of operating in more places than ever remotely. By building the loader without a cab and using advanced kinematics, for example, RogueX features next-generation unique functionality including both vertical-path and radial-path lift capabilities in one machine. The all-electric and autonomous concept machine produces zero emissions as it features a lithium-ion battery, electric drive system, and no hydraulics.