Volvo’s L45G and L50G wheel loaders have a shorter frame, created by positioning the engine transversely, allowing extra movement in restricted areas. The machines feature infinitely variable hydrostatic transmissions, allowing rim pull availability at all speeds.

JCB says 2012 will be the “biggest product launch in our history.” To date, 33 new products have been introduced with another 33 scheduled for debut before year end. Show introductions included the 427 and 437 wheel loaders and company’s revamped JS line of excavators, including the JS115 to JS180 range of machines that will feature the JCB 444 Dieselmax for the first time. The company says the engine delivers up to 23 percent more torque, offering faster response time and in the JS160 and JS180 models, operating at up to 10 percent lower rpms. On all models below 24 metric tons, the ROPS will be integral to the cab.

New Holland’s 5.3-ton E55B SR short-radius compact excavator uses three integrated pumps to deliver accurate dozer operation, total simultaneous movements, power and smooth operation under heavy loads. The standard proportional control of the auxiliary hydraulics is placed on the right joystick, allowing precision movements in tight spaces. The upper frame rotates completely in less than 7 seconds.

Case Construction Equipment is celebrating its 170th anniversary, saying 90 percent of its products have been “renewed.” The 580N backhoe, introduced at ConExpo, is now an EGR Tier 4 Interim machine. Several Case machines are now being introduced with installed telematics.

The Cat 966K XE will be introduced in North America during the first half of 2013.

Caterpillar displayed its largest selection of paving products, including the B-Series production class vibratory rollers, with an optional Cat Compaction Control. The system combines infrared temperature sensors with mapping to keep operators informed of current map temperatures, machine position and coverage completion, recording these for future analysis. More than 20 new products include 301.7D and 302.4D compact excavators and CB14B utility roller.

LiuGong’s 922E excavator takes over from the 922D, and improves operating efficiency by 10 percent and reduces fuel consumption by 18 percent, according to the company. The machine’s automatic power boost mode increases digging force by up to 10 percent for 10-second intervals. The heavy lift system lets operators increase hydraulic pressure to build force and reduce hydraulic flow to the attachment, while reducing speed for added control during lifting operations.

LiuGong used Intermat to intro its newly acquired Dressta dozers and 922E excavator, which features a high-contrast monitor that can be seen in all light conditions. Both machines are made in the company’s Poland plant, which is scheduled to manufacture wheel loaders.

The system of automatic compaction control on BOMAG rollers has been upgraded with Asphalt Manager II (AM II). New features include an easier-to-use operating system with menu control that provides operators with several options for basic applications (e.g. surface layers; binder and base courses). All of the GPS-fitted rollers working a project are connected by a wireless network, allowing individual measuring data (including position, compaction values and asphalt temperature) that is updated every five seconds, to be shared with each other and the site manager. The overall status of the site is recorded in real time.

Goodyear introduced a new range of OTR tires with Hi-Stability technology. The tires can increase load capacity by up to 25 percent and improve stability. More than 30 radials have been developed for machines operating in mines, quarries, construction, ports, recycling and other industries. With equipment manufacturers producing more powerful machines, Goodyear says it developed the tires to match their increased power, speed and torque. The construction of the Hi-Stability tires allows higher inflation pressures. Improved stability and durability come from a reinforced bead structure and carcass, and the tires provide better tread self-cleaning and reduced friction for improved rolling resistance and traction.

Haulotte previewed its HT23RTJ rough-terrain telescopic boom. The machine will be available in October 2012 in North America. The boom can reach full height in 53 seconds and comes with three steer settings: two-wheel steer, four-wheel steer and crab.

Material lifting specialist Haulotte used Intermat to announce a 23 percent increase in sales in the last year and optimism about a “pretty good” global market. Strong fleet replacement and rental orders are boosting American sales, says the company which anticipates a “very good” North American market this year. The company also introduced upgrades to its compact scissor lifts with new Tier IV compliant Kubota engines. These compact machines have excellent rough-terrain capability, says Haulotte, with four-wheel drive, improved ground clearance, a new outrigger system and a hydraulic differential lock to aid work on steep slopes and rough-terrain.