Mecalac has introduced its new 12MTX to the U.S. market, calling it a combination “compact excavator, loader, and telehandler.” The 10-ton machine can perform digging, loading and material handling tasks, in addition to running a variety of attachments that require high-flow hydraulics, such as asphalt planers and flail mowers.

“Anyone who subscribes to the philosophy of ‘do more with less’ or is simply forced to do more with less will appreciate the 12MTX,” said Peter Bigwood, general manager for Mecalac North America.

“It’s a compact machine that can work in a tight envelope and do virtually anything you’d expect from the typical jobsite mainstays — and do it all well. At a time when costs are high and labor is hard to come by, the 12MTX eliminates the need for a big crew, and the need to buy, maintain and haul numerous pieces of equipment.”

The 12MTX’s three-piece, variable angle, side-mounted boom gives the machine a smaller footprint and allows operators to work from either directly beside the vehicle to up to 23 feet away in a single motion.

Mecalac says this design allows the excavator-loader to work in tighter spaces and offer higher lifting capabilities than a traditional mono-boom excavator.

The larger working range paired with 360 degrees of rotation reduces the number of times the operator needs to reposition the machine, therefore increasing efficiency.

Using the selector switch, operators can quickly change between four operating modes - park, excavator, loader and travel - with the turn of a dial. A new speed control system keeps the machine at a steady speed up to the maximum speed of 20 miles per hour.

The company gave the machine a low center of gravity to provide stability for material handling applications. Static loading is also possible due to the dipperstick cylinder being placed in a lower position. For further control, the 12MTX also features an articulated undercarriage, four-wheel drive and five different tire options.