Spinning Around with Manitou

Something a bit different here today on the Digger Man Blog. For many years now, I/we have been out in the wilderness in terms of communication with French company Manitou, but this past week, that has all changed, as I received an invitation to an upcoming event, where in particular, I will be taking a look at the manufacturers impressive new 360-degree MRT telehandler range.

The MRT product line, is available in two formats - ‘Vision’ and ‘Vision +’ - with lift heights up to 35 metres and lift capacities to seven tonnes. The Vision + line-up includes five base models – three with six tonnes maximum capacities – the MRT 2260, MRT 2660 and 3060 with lift heights of 22, 26 and 30 metres, plus two with seven tonnes capacity, the 25 metre MRT 2570 and 35 metre 3570.

The simpler more basic Vision line includes four 4,500kg models - the 16 metre MRT1645, 18 metre MRT 1845, 21 metre MRT 2145 and 25 metre MRT 2545 - with a choice of engine power offered plus the simpler versions of the units in the Vision+ range.

The new models do look radically different and feature the stunning all new high vision cab with no structural bars from the front to the back of the roof to restrict the view.

The cab also features an extra-large touch screen and pop-up informatics and hot water heater. The new machines are said to be up to five percent lighter, and yet offer increased capacities of up to 15 percent.

They also feature automatic transmissions with a road speed of up to 40kph. Access to the deck is available on both sides and at both ends of the chassis making it easy to climb down regardless of the superstructure slew position.

Power comes from a Yanmar Stage V/Tier 4 diesel coupled with a new hydraulic system, which is said to offer smoother function speeds up to 30 percent faster. The company claims a five percent reduction in cost of ownership and improved paint quality. Initially two of the models – the 22 and 26 metre lift height units – will be available as all electric or hybrid/bi-energy versions, with the first deliveries of these scheduled for the first quarter 2022.

Of course, there is a lot more to Manitou these days and hopefully going forward we will get to see more of their products, in particular for our platform, construction telehandlers and skid steer loaders, for test drive opportunities and reports.

Checkout this walkaround video of the new MRT 2260.