Machine Heads Video: Toro’s Innovations Keep It at the Forefront of the Mini Skid Steer Market

In the world of equipment, few names are as synonymous with innovation and reliability as Toro. The latest episode of Compact Equipment’s Machine Heads interviews spotlights Toro’s significant impact on the mini skid steer category, a segment that has seen explosive growth and increasing competition over the last decade. Toro is the first American manufacturer of walk-behind and stand-on tool carriers, which the company calls compact utility loaders.

Hosted by Wayne Grayson, who I will say is the top video influencer in the construction equipment industry, this episode features an engaging discussion with Sam Dando, a key figure at Toro. Together, they delve into the past, present and future of mini skid steers, with a particular focus on how Toro has continued to innovate in response to new market entrants.

Toro first revolutionized the compact utility loader (CUL) market in 1995, transforming an Australian invention — the wheeled mini skid steer known as the Dingo — into a category-defining product. Today, Toro boasts the most comprehensive range of CULs in the industry. Its lineup includes 14 models, each designed to meet diverse customer needs. A standout in the range is the Dingo TX 1000, introduced in 2015 and renowned for its balance of power and size. Building on its success, Toro recently launched the Dingo TX 1000 Turbo, which incorporates more horsepower and the new Smart Power feature to maximize engine and hydraulic efficiency.

One of Toro’s most ambitious projects is the eDingo 500, a battery-powered model that expands the possibilities of indoor utility work. Designed to fit through standard doorways, the eDingo 500 and its new 30-in. attachments — including a standard bucket, adjustable fork, floor scraper and grapple bucket— allow for unprecedented versatility in indoor environments.

All this info is in the video above. It’s a great interview with two classic Machine Heads. For more insights into Toro’s role in shaping the compact utility loader market and to see similar types machines in action, visit Compact Equipment‘s YouTube page. We have more vids on different brands. Subscribe and we’ll alert you about new videos.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.