Vermeer Redesigns Its Mini Loader Line, Announces Next Generation ML Mini Skid Steers

Vermeer just launched a new ML series of stand-on mini loaders. The lineup includes four models: the ML80, ML100, ML130 and ML150. These machines replace and consolidate parts of Vermeer’s previous mini skid steer range. Vermeer historically offered seven diesel compact tool carriers from about 24.8 to 40 hp with operating capacities from 500 to 1,600 lbs. That lineup included units like the S450TX, CTX100 and CTX160. Click here to see that older lineup. The new ML series simplifies that family into four core sizes. The goal is more lift, more hydraulic power and a more comfortable operator station. Vermeer is targeting tree care, landscape, rental and light construction crews. The company says the updates come directly from those users. From the press release:

“When we talk to contractors, their success often comes down to jobsite efficiency. They need to maximize what they can accomplish with a single machine,” said Cole Chesnut, product manager for Vermeer Environmental Equipment. “That’s the principle behind the new ML series. We focused on delivering robust hydraulic power to the attachment and ground drive motors, so whether they’re trenching or moving heavy material, they have the performance they need. We paired that power with a refined operator station designed for all-day comfort and intuitive control. This new lineup is a direct response to what contractors told us they need: a durable, versatile machine that helps them get more work done every day.”

New Power Range and Lift Performance

The ML series keeps the diesel power approach. Horsepower ranges from 25 hp up to 40 hp. Three of the four models now use turbocharged engines for added torque under load. Rated operating capacity (ROC) also gets a bump compared to older Vermeer minis in the same class. Here’s how the new machines stack up:

• 2ML80: With a 760-lb rated operating capacity (ROC) and a 25-hp (18.6-kW) diesel engine, the ML80 is the ideal machine for replacing manual labor in residential landscape settings, light tree work and rental applications. Its compact footprint and radial lift path provide excellent access and performance in tight jobsites.
• ML100: This model steps up to a 950-lb ROC and adds a turbocharged 25-hp (18.6-kW) diesel engine. The ML100 is a versatile radial lift path performer for the demanding rental, landscape and urban tree care markets, providing additional torque for more power when running attachments.
• ML130: For contractors taking on bigger jobs, the ML130 delivers serious power with its 40-hp (29.8-kW) turbocharged diesel engine and 1,270-lb ROC. Its vertical lift path design tackles larger-scale landscape projects, demanding tree care and truck loading applications.
• ML150: When jobs demand maximum capability, the ML150 features a powerful 1,530-lb ROC and 40-hp (29.8-kW) turbocharged diesel engine. Designed for the most challenging tasks in landscape, hardscape, utility and tree care, the ML150 handles trenching, hauling, digging and grading applications. Its vertical lift path design provides optimal loading and dumping at height, making it ideal for the most demanding heavy-duty operations.5-hp diesel

That 1,530-lb ROC on the ML150 pushes into what used to be CTX160 territory. The CTX160 was Vermeer’s most powerful production unit in 2024 with a 1,600-lb ROC, 40-hp turbo diesel and 16.7 gpm auxiliary flow. The ML150 is clearly meant to live in that role for the updated range. The lift path strategy is split. The ML80 and ML100 use a radial lift path for digging and breakout at ground level. The ML130 and ML150 use a vertical lift path for better hinge-pin height and truck loading. Contractors can now choose based on job type instead of just size.

Updated Hydraulics for Attachments

Vermeer redesigned the hydraulic system on the ML series. The update focuses on more efficient transfer of engine power to both the drive motors and the attachment system. The goal: keep attachment flow up while pushing or lifting a load. That matters with trenchers, augers, grapples and grading tools. These machines need to stay productive in dirt, not just move mulch. Vermeer says the new system is sized to run a wide range of standard Vermeer mini loader attachments.

A More Comfortable Station

Stand-on mini loaders beat shovels, but they can beat up operators. Vermeer is trying to fix that with its new operator station. All ML models use a chariot-style rear platform. The platform has cushioning and side padding to cut vibration and lower fatigue over long shifts. A pilot-operated joystick handles machine control. That setup aims to make the loader easier to run all day with smoother modulation instead of stiff linkages. The platform also integrates an operator presence system. If the operator steps off, the machine disables ground drive and hydraulics. That safety approach is already common in the segment, but Vermeer is calling out refinement, not reinvention. The company is also using upgraded ground drive components to help durability under constant load and directional changes.

Telematics Is Now Standard + Easy Maintenance

Every ML loader ships with telematics. Vermeer calls the program Vermeer Fleet, which ties into its VermeerOne digital platform. Owners can track hours, machine location and fault codes from that portal. That matters for rental fleets and landscape crews with multiple sites and operators. The system also gives access to parts manuals and maintenance records. That can help small crews keep up with service intervals without a full-time fleet manager. Speaking of which…

Vermeer built the ML series for easier daily service, incorporating a greaseless track system, centralized service points and simple access to the engine bay. This design matches what rental houses and contractors want, since mini loaders often see use by multiple operators with varying experience levels. The ML series also carries strong factory support, including a 1-year/1,000-hour machine warranty, a 3-year/2,000-hour engine warranty and a 3-year/3,000-hour limited warranty on the loader arms.

The Prototype ML180 Points to What’s Next

Vermeer is already showing what could come after the ML150. The company is traveling with a prototype ML180. We covered it at Utility Expo 2025. The ML180 is still in development. Vermeer calls it a technology platform. It is not a production unit. The ML180 introduces electric-over-hydraulic (EH) controls to Vermeer’s mini loaders. EH control systems replace direct mechanical linkages. That lets the machine respond faster and gives the operator more precise modulation. It can also allow for programmable control feel and built-in assist features. The ML180 also adds a suspended undercarriage and an air-ride operator platform. Stand-on loaders usually punish knees and backs. The suspension aims to isolate vibration and reduce shock when crossing ruts or broken ground. That matters in tree work, utility trench work and hardscape prep where jobsite surfaces get rough. The message is pretty clear. Vermeer sees operator comfort as a performance spec, not an optional upgrade.

Vermeer Is Also Testing an Electric Mini Loader

Vermeer is also moving into battery-powered compact loaders. The company has announced an electric version of its S450TX platform as part of a limited electric lineup for tree care and utility work. The S450TX Electric is still in field testing. Vermeer has not published final specs. We can benchmark the diesel S450TX for context. The diesel unit runs a 24.8-hp Kubota D902 engine. It delivers about 500 lb of ROC, 12.5 gpm of hydraulic flow and a travel speed around 3.5 mph. If the electric version can match that output, it will give landscapers, municipal crews and rental fleets a zero-emissions option for work in neighborhoods, near hospitals or indoors. The electric mini loader is part of a broader pilot that also includes electric brush chippers and stump cutters. Vermeer is gathering contractor feedback and performance data before committing to full release.

Takeaways for Compact Equipment Buyers

The Vermeer ML series marks a reset of the company’s compact tool carrier line. The four new models cover entry landscape work through heavy material handling. They bring higher torque, higher ROC and standard telematics. The ML180 concept shows where Vermeer wants to go next: suspended ride, EH controls and lower operator fatigue. The S450TX Electric shows a push toward low or no emissions in tight work zones. We’ll keep tracking specs, release timing and availability as Vermeer moves these machines from demo to dealer.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

Let’s take a look at the smallest mini excavators on the market.