Terex Reveals New Generation of Wheel Loaders

Terex is introducing a new generation of compact wheel loaders. The new models are the TL80, the TL100 compact wheel loaders, and the TL70S swing loader. The “Generation 2015” machines are manufactured by Terex Compact Germany at its Crailsheim plant. The wheel loaders feature diesel engines which comply with EU IIIb emission standard (EPA Tier 4 Final standard in the USA). As part of the same development initiative, all new wheel loaders have been fitted with the “Terex Smart Control” operating and control system.

Peter Hirschel, Managing Director of Terex Compact Germany GmbH, explains the emergence of this new generation: “We have now developed almost all our wheel loaders to a whole new level. From the TL80 all-rounder to the TL70S swing loader, the various machines incorporate state of the art technology. What‘s more, the cumulative effect of the various improvements – new engines, improved operation, and the new design – is to generate the kind of genuine added value our clients will appreciate on site, in the form of better performance and equipment that‘s easier to use. This should ultimately increase operating efficiency and productivity.”

Keeping it clean: engines with fewer pollutants

The new engines use less fuel and emit considerably fewer pollutants than the previous models, without any compromise in performance. All three wheel loaders have a water-cooled 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine with charge-air cooling, as well as a system for cooling and recirculating exhaust gas. It is a classic case of “downsizing” – achieving the same or even improved performance, but with less displacement.

At a rated speed of 2200 rpm, the new 2.9 litre engine generates 45 kW (61 hp) for the TL70S and TL80 loaders and 55.4kW (75hp) for the TL100 loader. The engine relies on a high-pressure common rail injection system, which is controlled electronically, and produces maximum torque of between 240 Nm (at 1600 rpm for the TL70S and TL80) and 300 Nm (for the TL100). As such, the torque levels achieved are higher than for the previous models and the drive train components are more efficient.

The engines do not need diesel particle filters, which reduces maintenance costs. Filters may, however, be fitted at a later stage. The “packaging” around the wheel loaders‘ engines is also new and different from before – the ventilation slots in the redesigned engine hood are now 20% bigger to keep the engine compartment that bit cooler.

Terex Smart Control

The second fundamental change associated with the “Generation 2015” wheel loaders is an operating and control unit developed by Terex with input from operators. The “Terex Smart Control (TSC)”, the system combines new control electronics with a newly designed joystick and instruments. Karl Kleinhenz, Head of Design and Development for wheel loaders, explains: “The Terex Smart Control system was designed in-house. The key thing for us was to understand the needs of the driver, which means optimising his working environment. We wanted to make the loaders easier and more convenient for him to use, as well as making performance-related and ergonomic improvements. We didn’t feel the driver should have to adapt to the loader; it was more a case of adapting the loader to the driver’s needs.”

The idea behind TSC is to improve efficiency. “The software, which is accessible from the display itself, gives the driver lots of opportunities to influence the performance of the machine, such as setting the hydraulic power associated with the additional control circuits,” adds Kleinhenz. “By setting the optimal configuration for the application, the driver saves time and is better able to focus on the task at hand,” continues Kleinhenz.

Making a driver feel more comfortable at work can also help improve performance. The software allows the driver to adjust the functions important to them in line with their individual preferences. One example is the optional ride control system. A bit like a smartphone, the menus listing the various functions are laid out in a contemporary tile-based style. It takes no time at all to get used to this intuitive new arrangement.

New design for control elements

Control elements including the joystick and switches have also been redesigned. The results are improved ergonomics and a better overall feel, with everything easier to handle. Additional control elements have been integrated into the joystick and can therefore be selected from there directly, such as the third electro-proportional control circuit for controlling work attachments.

The new developments should deliver noticeable improvements in terms of handling and ease of use. The new keypad covers the main loader functions. The extra-large keys are easy to use, even when the driver is wearing gloves. Ultimately, the new developments increase the precision, speed, and smoothness of work movements and thereby help improve performance.

Four independent additional control circuits

The hydraulic system ensures work cycles are accurate and fast, with power delivered evenly and smoothly. All three wheel loaders allow the driver to control attachments via as many as four additional hydraulic control circuits, which operate independently of each other. These include, for example, a wide range of buckets or forks and a series of special attachments.

Thanks to a quick-attach system, these can easily be replaced from the cab based on two-handed operation.

Easier servicing and maintenance

The electrics are easier to access, which is a real help in terms of servicing and maintenance. All the relays and fuses can be reached inside the cab and the servicing cover can be opened without any tools.

The “Generation 2015” compact wheel loaders from Terex promise customers a combination of great performance and precise, sensitive control. This makes these construction machines an economical choice, even for complex construction projects.