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Compact Kubota telehandler and wheel loaders

Kubota (UK) has launched its first telehandler, as it seeks to provide a wider range of machinery solutions for Construction and associated industries. Called the KTH4815-2, the compact machine boasts an overall width of 1.6m and an overall height of below 2m.

Model numbering is indicative of the telehandler’s lifting capability, with the KTH4815-2 capable of achieving a maximum lift height of 4.8m and a maximum lift capacity of 1.5 tonnes, depending on the variant. Hose burst check-valves and a load-moment sensor with forward over-turn protection meeting EN15000 certification, is also part of the standard specification.

Hydraulic performance extends to up to 81L/min, with 51 litres available through an auxiliary circuit for powered attachments carried on the handler’s Eurohitch headstock. In addition to a hydraulically locking headstock, the telehandler features a proportional joystick, with adjustable flow rate and memory function.

An EU Stage 5 emissions compliant Kubota D1803 three-cylinder engine powers the KTH4815-2 with a peak output of 50hp/37kW. Mounted on the right-hand side between the front and rear wheels, the transverse engine position affords generous service access to all filters and the battery isolator, in addition to providing easy access to the handler’s cooling pack.

Driveline
The driveline, while equipped with Carraro axles connected by mechanical driveshafts, is hydrostatic, with a Bosch Rexroth hydrostatic transmission delivering propulsion in two speed ranges – 0-7kph and 0-25kph. The powertrain affords multidisc brakes and, with permanent four-wheel-drive, there is a an option for front axle differential lock to further boost traction.

Four versions of the KTH4815-2 telehandler are available; two are canopy-equipped models with a curved front screen, and two use fully glazed cabs with a two-piece door – the glazed upper section can be secured in the open position. The entry-level KTH4815-2 is supplied without a 170kg rear counterweight and is shod on 10/75x15.3 narrow tyres, reducing both its cost and performance. A wider, 31/15.5-15 skid-steer tyre option is available. 

While canopy machines forfeit the left-hand door and work lights, the specification of fully glazed cab models includes three work lights, side-view mirrors, cab heating and a radio. Air conditioning is available as an option, and all models benefit from a reach and rake adjustable steering column.

In typical rigid frame telehandler fashion, the highest specification KTH4815-2 also includes three-mode steering, adding two-wheel and crab steering modes to the standard four-wheel steering function. Using four-wheel steering, a tight turning radius of 1.2m inner 2.7m outer can be achieved. Engine service intervals are every 500 hours, and all four variants are offered with a two-year, 2,000-hour warranty.

Compact wheel loaders
Following the recent introduction of two battery-powered RT compact wheeled loaders, Kubota (UK) has widened the range with the introduction of an additional 10 models, powered by Kubota diesel engines.

Revealed at LAMMA 2024, the extended portfolio includes high-lift and heavy lift specifications, with a range of tipping loads that extends from 550kg up to 1,600kg. Lift heights extend from 2.17m up to 2.96m, while operating weights are from 1,100kg up to 2,900kg. Depending on the model, cab or canopy options are available, with ROPS and FOPS protection.

The diesel-powered RT models have power outputs from 15-36kW from their EU Stage 5 compliant Kubota engines. The two most powerful models feature a DPF/DOC emissions control module, along with a 6,000-hour service interval. Compact dimensions are a feature of the RT range, with the narrowest model, the entry-level RT100-2, measuring 920 mm wide. The RT105T-2 features a telescopic boom, increasing its working envelope. The widest model is the range-topping RT280-2, at 1.4m with 31x15.5-15 tyres. Overall height is up to 2.34m, reducing to below 2m when using the folding canopy.

Drive is hydrostatic throughout the range, with the smallest four models using heavy duty Poclain wheel motors. From the RT210-2 upwards, Bosch Rexroth hydrostatic transmission are used to drive mechanical axles, and this enables limited slip or 100% mechanical diff locks to be used to boost traction. Travel speed is up to 30kph, depending on model. RT270&RT280-2

Up to two auxiliary hydraulic circuits available, with one offering proportional control through the multi-function joystick, flow rates vary from 28-51 LPM. Boom float is part of the standard specification, as is a Eurohitch headstock.

Models equipped with a fully-glazed cab include a heater and radio, plus road lighting kit and rear-view mirrors. Engine service intervals are every 500 hours, and all models are offered with a two-year, 2,000-hour warranty.

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