Bobcat Company, the inventor of the skid-steer loader, has launched its new A220 multi-steer loader.

The Bobcat A220 is the first loader of its kind to offer the operator the possibility to select, via a rocker switch in the loader cab, the type of steering best suited for the operating conditions: all-wheel steering or skid-steering, claims Bobcat.

Unique in design, the A220 combines the features and benefits of two different types of steering in one machine: minimal ground disturbance of a wheel loader combined with the exceptional manoeuvrability of a skid-steer loader.

All-wheel steering is ideal for minimising disturbance to soft surfaces such as grass turf as well as manoeuvring easily on dry paved surfaces such as asphalt or concrete. Skid steering, on the other hand, allows the loader to manoeuvre efficiently in tight spaces with extra fast cycle times, the company says.

The A220 is also the first Bobcat loader to feature low-effort joysticks to control loader steering and speed (left-hand) and the hydraulic functions (right-hand), it adds.

Another innovation and Bobcat exclusive is said to be the low-speed/high-torque "inching" mode. This limits the speed of the A220 to 4.5 kph, less than half the normal operating speed. This mode makes it possible to retain full engine power for both the hydraulic functions as well as driving the attachments. It also allows for precise movements with very high wheel torque.

Applications for the Bobcat A220 are many and include landscaping, grounds care, nurseries, municipalities, utilities, rental, agribusiness, building and construction contractors, as well as industrial users.

In all-wheel steering mode, the turning radius of the A220 without bucket is 2.92 m. Designed with two speed ranges, the A220 offers a maximum travel speed of 20 kph. In the normal speed range, the operator can select between all-wheel steering or skid steering. When changing to the high-speed range, all-wheel steering automatically switches to front-wheel steering. Skid-steering is possible in either speed range.

Like the Bobcat 863 skid-steer loader model, from which it has been developed, the A220 is powered by an oil-cooled, four-cylinder Deutz turbodiesel engine which develops 54.8 kW (73.5 hp) at governed rpm.

With an operating weight of 3,520 kg, the A220 has a tipping load of 2,000 kg and a rated operating capacity of 1,000 kg.

In addition, since the A220 is equipped like all Bobcat loaders with the quick-change Bob-Tach mounting system and is built with the same mainframe as the Bobcat 863 skid-steer loader and T200 compact tracked loader, the A220 can mount and run all 800 series attachments.

The A220H is also designed to power those attachments which require extra hydraulic horsepower.