Greater feature standardization improves the operating experience​

A central focus of the introduction of the new large-frame lineup was the addition of a more robust set of standard features, aimed at simplifying the overall ordering process and delivering a more premium owning and operating experience in line with Manitou’s quality commitment. While influence from the automotive industry is clear in each machine, Manitou has industrialized these influences to make them reliable for daily use and heavy work.

This simplicity is evident in the cab of each machine and its operator interface. Standard features include a foot pedal for both throttle and deceleration, cabin dome lights, 12V and USB charging ports with device storage areas, and removable rubber floor mats that include a drain that goes through to the bottom of the machine for easy clean out.​

The cab is spacious with an adjustable workstation that allows each operator to adjust their orientation in the cab to their preference, including pilot joysticks attached to the seat to move with the operator, a seat and armrests that adjust independently based on operator preference, and a removable footrest for comfort and bracing. Options include a fully enclosed cab with full environmental controls, multiple seat options (including a heated seat), Bluetooth radio, a sound reduction package, and Manitou’s Hydraulic Power-A-Tach attachment system that allows for easy swapping of attachments from inside the cab.

​The new large-frame skid steers and CTLs also feature a new 7-inch colour display that intuitively shows critical machine settings, engine information, service intervals, and other machine information critical to daily use. An all-new backlit ergonomic keypad on the right-hand side of the cab (facing forward) features new and patent-pending innovations. This keypad features keyless start and is where security codes are entered, lights are controlled, HVAC controls are turned on and off, auxiliary hydraulics are engaged, and other critical machine functions are maintained with an intuitive jog dial. It also includes Manitou’s smart throttle that senses the input speed and adjusts the acceleration rate — and it always starts at low idle for safety and fuel efficiency. Optional creep mode is additionally controlled through this keypad and the monitor, which allows the operator to independently set machine travel speeds from the engine throttle to better match road speeds to desired attachment performance, for applications such as brooms and cold planers.

Lowering total cost of ownership

At the heart of every Manitou product launch is the drive to lower the total cost of ownership for the equipment owner. Increasing topline revenue through performance capabilities and utilization is an important piece of that puzzle, and Manitou complements that with widespread features that enable cost efficiencies, greater uptime, and fewer costly downtime events.

Service is made simple through intelligent engine compartment design and easy access to daily service checks and fill points. The tilt-up hydraulic cooler serves a double purpose of enabling a low profile to improve visibility to the rear of the machine and allowing access to service points in the engine compartment while discouraging the build-up of jobsite dust and debris. A cooling fan comes with optional reversing capabilities – either at scheduled intervals or on-demand – to improve cooling performance and to keep the engine compartment clear of debris.

These new large-frame loaders are “Manitou Connected Machines” that provide instant remote access to recent activity, operation codes, CAN data, and service alerts. Owners and operators stay connected on-the-go with the myManitou mobile app, where they can monitor machine location, fuel levels, operating hours, and set geofences for added control and security. They can even access key documents like the operator’s manual directly from their device. For fleet and business management, EasyMANAGER is a robust management tool — track service intervals, pinpoint machine locations, and quickly identify diagnostic codes, all from one centralized platform.

“This new product line serves notice that Manitou and its dealer network stand behind you and your business’s fleet management needs from initial investment through fleet transitions and sunsetting,” says Ryan. “They offer both the excitement of extremely capable and powerful machines and the confidence of a strong business decision that will add to and improve the value of your fleet. And the new designs make you look good while you’re doing it.”