As the industry continues to shift — with a report from McKinsey & Company predicting the retirement of 41 percent of the U.S. construction workforce by 2031 — Bobcat Company introduced the next evolution of its compact loader lineup at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, with solutions to support operators of every experience level through intuitive controls, smarter systems, and simplified operation.
“Nearly 70 years ago, Bobcat introduced the world’s first compact loader, defining an entirely new way to work on the job site,” said Mike Ballweber, President, Doosan Bobcat North America, Inc. “This evolution of Bobcat loaders builds on that legacy by pairing the power and durability our customers expect with intelligence and simplicity designed for a changing workforce.”
Bobcat realigned its lineup into two distinct compact loader categories, Classic and Pro.
Classic: Proven Performance, Familiar Controls
Classic loaders feature familiar controls and performance with competitive pricing for rental fleets, general construction applications, and landscapers.
Classic models include:
- Compact track loaders: T450, T595, T650, T770
- Skid steer loaders: S70, S450, S590, S650, S770
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The machines include classic controllability using either selectable joystick controls or optional hand and foot controls, along with two-speed travel, automatic ride control, keyless ignition, and a deluxe display with optional integrated rear camera.
Pro: Advanced Technology, Agility, and Intelligence
Bobcat Pro loaders bring innovation to the job site with control, performance, and technology advancements.
“Pro loaders are built around one idea: the machine should adapt to the operator,” said Scott Johnson, Bobcat’s Senior Director of North America Construction Equipment. “From drive modes to responsiveness, we’re giving operators true control over how the loader feels and performs.”
Pro models include:
- Compact track loaders: T64-2, T66-2, T76-2, T86-2
- Skid steer loaders: S64-2, S66-2, S76-2, S86-2
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| American Construction Supply |
Key Pro advancements include:
- Four drive modes with enhanced control software for greater precision and responsiveness tailored to operator preference and application — Balanced: Smooth, predictable response for precise work that requires steady control — ideal for grading, material placement, and confined job sites
- Strategic weight reductions and structural optimizations to increase agility while maintaining performance
- Redesigned electrical systems for improved reliability in demanding work environments
- An elevated operator experience with refreshed interiors, heated air‑ride seats, added storage, and an intuitive 8‑inch touchscreen display with infotainment and an integrated rear camera
Agile: A versatile mode designed for everyday operation, providing responsive control across a wide range of tasks and mixed applications
Dynamic: Sharper acceleration and quicker response for high‑productivity work where faster cycle times and confident control are essential
Charged: Maximum responsiveness and speed for experienced operators working in open areas, enabling high-productivity work with precise control
Among the new Pro loaders, the T86‑2 and S86-2 set a new benchmark with 115 horsepower and a 12‑foot lift height.
“One of the major drivers of our loader evolution is accelerating the pace of innovation across our lineup,” said Brad Claus, Bobcat’s Senior Vice President of North America Construction Equipment. “With our shift from series to categories, we will release innovations more frequently at the model level, without waiting for an entirely new series to launch. And with new technologies in place, we can deliver meaningful updates to customers more often.”
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Building on this evolution, Bobcat is introducing new integrated technology options designed to further simplify operation, elevate job site awareness, and help operators of every skill level work more confidently and efficiently.
AI-Enabled Jobsite Companion
This smart, operator-focused option is the first AI-enabled solution in the compact equipment industry, according to Bobcat.
Available as an option on Pro loaders, Jobsite Companion simplifies machine operation with voice commands, automated attachment settings, and real-time job site insights, allowing operators to keep hands on the controls while automating more than 50 machine functions. Its built-in job cost dashboard turns hours into insight by tracking operation cost compared to job estimates to improve profit.
Jobsite Awareness Systems
Available as optional features on Pro loaders, Bobcat is introducing operator-awareness technology options through camera- and radar-based systems. These technologies provide added awareness on demanding job sites, giving operators more information to maneuver confidently and stay focused on the job.
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| American Construction Supply |
Bobcat View camera options offer either a rear view or a broad‑area view that covers the rear and sides of the machine.
Bobcat is also introducing Sense Detection Systems, which offer two additional detection options:
- Rear object detection and avoidance: A radar-based system detects objects and people behind the machine and can alert the operator or automatically slow or stop the loader.
- 360 people detection: This camera-based system identifies and alerts operators to the presence of people around the machine without intervening in machine motion
“This launch isn’t just about new machines, it’s about how people work,” Claus said. “By giving operators more choice, more control, and smarter technology, we’re building equipment that adapts alongside the workforce and the job sites of tomorrow.”
The newly enhanced loader models will be available at select North American dealerships beginning summer 2026.
