Takeuchi wheels out new models at Bauma

Japanese mini excavator specialists Takeuchi, chose Bauma to launch a number of new machines to the market. As I was travelling with members of the CBL Plant Sales team, who are a highly successful Takeuchi dealership in the South of England, it wasn’t long before we visited the stand to see what’s new in the famous red & grey livery.

As predicted on my blog previously, Takeuchi brought a brand new wheeled excavator to the tri annual machinery launch party in Bavaria. The new TB295W, is the direct replacement for the outgoing TB175W model, of which 230 units had been sold in the UK since it was introduced into the market in 2002. This stunning new midi wheeled excavator features all new styling, and a cab which bears some similarity to the popular tracked variant the TB285.

The machine on display was the first production model and was in European specification, featuring a very sturdy looking two piece boom, which now features one hydraulic ram for the upper boom segment, as opposed to two rams on the old model, rear stabilizing outriggers, and dozer blade to the fore. The two piece boom is especially useful when working along road sides in a single lane closure scenario, allowing the operator to work close into the machine, when top soiling verges for example. The 9,387kg machine is powered by an Isuzu 4JJ1X engine, which is rated at 73kw. The fitment of large one piece bonnet hoods enables superb access to all major servicing and daily check points, making the operator and the service technicians work a lot easier.

As is so often the case with manufacturers, it appears that the UK market will have to wait a while before these machines become available for the dealers to sell, but by the look of things it will be a worthwhile wait indeed.

Sat next to the TB295W, was another new model which should prove popular with the plant hire sector. The TB260 is a new 6 tonne class mini excavator, which gets its power from a Yanmar 4TNV84T engine, with a power output of 33.6kw. I can see this size machine becoming an extremely popular model in the Takeuchi range over the coming years. Two of CBL Plant Sales customers, Andy Parker, and Jim Patch, who run YHC Hire Services, expressed immediate interest in this machine, and I will be watching with interest to see if they purchase these new models

Two further new models were displayed, including the 1,700kg TB216, which is the upgrade replacement model for many utility company’s favourite the TB016, and the 1,500kg TB215R, reduced tailswing model. Both these machines feature rear boom mounted lift rams, which prevent accidental damage to the hydraulic ram itself, and an all new cast dipper arm assembly which is said to be stronger in construction.

During our visit to the stand, it was a great honour to meet the president of the Takeuchi Manufacturing Co Ltd, Mr Akio Takeuchi, who is said to be the world creator of the compact mini excavator. In the photo below we see from left to right, John Elliott, Regional Director of CBL Ltd, Mr Akio Takeuchi, and Nick Drew, Earthmovers Magazine, in front of the new TB295W.

I can’t possibly round this post off without a mention to the demonstration operator, who put on a good show for the crowds, in the fairly tight corner digging plot around the Takeuchi stand, using a TB250 model equipped with a Powertilt set up.

It was a great stand to visit and I thank everyone involved for their hospitality. I hope to catch up with you all again at Plantworx next month.