by Richard Cosgrove | Tue 24 Mar 2026
Wacker Neuson product innovations in spring 2026
With the three models ET18, ET20 and ET25, Wacker Neuson is launching a technically redesigned generation of mini-excavators in the 2-ton class. The focus of development was on versatile application areas, efficient work performance and a high level of operating comfort in daily construction site use. A key unique selling point in this class is the parallel auxiliary control circuits, which can be selected and operated at the touch of a button on the joystick without the need for manual switching. High working efficiency is a decisive factor in everyday work: even when performing several movements simultaneously, the mini-excavators can be controlled smoothly and precisely. If you want to dig shafts or work precisely along existing edges, the control unit adopted from larger excavator models provides intuitive and sensitive control.
Standard components include a hydraulicly telescoping travel gear with a minimum track width of 990 (ET18 and ET20) or 1100 millimeters (ET25) for confined access roads. If an application on slopes or along curbs is required, the upper carriage on all three models can be positioned vertically thanks to the optional VDS continuously variable upper carriage tilt. When changing between attachments such as backhoe buckets, trench clearing buckets, or hydraulic hammers, the integrated quick-change function with two-button operation and pressure release in the interior reduce setup time.
With the new remote-controlled RT trench roller, Wacker Neuson is setting new standards in safety, ease of use, and efficiency. The roller complies with the European Standard EN 474 and features a combined radio and infrared remote control system: While the radio signal ensures stable data transmission between the roller and the remote control, the infrared system continuously monitors the direct line of sight, thus ensuring greater safety for the operator and other people on the construction site. If this is interrupted - for example, in deep or winding trenches, behind buildings, or around corners - the machine stops automatically.
All control functions are in the hands of the operator, and an LED display provides information about running time, maintenance, and diagnostics. The patented return-to-center function automatically resets the roller to straight travel - without any operator intervention. This ensures consistent compaction results, especially in long trenches as well as in pipeline and utility construction applications. The trench roller's large fuel tank allows for longer operating intervals for continuous compaction work without refueling. The drive motor and the vibration system integrated into the drum body are configured to be maintenance-free for the first 1,000 operating hours and, together with optimized service access, help to keep downtime to a minimum on demanding infrastructure construction sites.
In the area of trowels, Wacker Neuson is expanding its product range with two new electric models that are battery operated. Both are characterized by their ease of use and their running time of one working day, and enable concrete smoothing in the interior, for example on floor slabs in industrial halls or parking garages, without local exhaust emissions.
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