Equip Expo 2025 Recap: These Are the Cool Machines and Tech We Saw in Louisville

Record-Breaking Attendance

Equip Expo 2025 drew nearly 30,000 attendees to Louisville, Kentucky, marking another year of growth for the outdoor power and landscape equipment industry. The show used more than 1.2 million sq ft of exhibit space, making it one of the largest tradeshows in the United States. Landscaper attendance grew 12 percent, and dealer attendance climbed 17 percent over last year, according to show organizers OPEI (the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute). Visitors came from all 50 states and 52 countries, including the crew at Compact Equipment. From the press release:

“Now in our fourth year as Equip [the show used to be called GIE+Expo], we continue to break records in both attendance and exhibit space,” said Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI, which owns and manages Equip Exposition. “The show, which was recently named Greatest Trade Show in the country, continues to serve as the most important gathering for the global industry, with attendance from all 50 states and 52 countries.”  

Things might change up in the future. The Kentucky Exposition Center’s $400 million renovation will continue over the next few years. As a result, organizers are exploring a temporary rotation to new cities in 2028 and 2029 before returning to Louisville, which has hosted the event for more than four decades. Equip’s mix of live demos, concerts, education and networking again made it the biggest week of the year for the landscape and outdoor equipment business. Here are some of the coolest machines, technologies and services we found at the show.

Vermeer ML Series Mini Loaders

Vermeer debuted its next-generation ML mini loader lineup, simplifying its range into four core diesel-powered models: the ML80, ML100, ML130 and ML150. Rated operating capacities range from 760 to 1,530 lbs, with turbocharged engines delivering 25 to 40 hp. The ML130 and ML150 use vertical lift paths for higher dump heights, while the ML80 and ML100 use radial lift paths for digging and breakout power. The redesigned hydraulic system improves power delivery to both drive motors and attachments, keeping productivity high during demanding trenching or grading work. Each model includes a comfortable rear operator platform with padding, smooth pilot joysticks and safety sensors that disable motion when the operator steps off. Daily service is easier with a greaseless track system, centralized service points and quick access to the engine bay. Every model ships with standard telematics for tracking hours, location and maintenance. Vermeer also previewed future tech with its prototype ML180 mini loader, which adds electric-over-hydraulic controls, track suspension and an an air-ride platform.

Case and New Holland Offer Economical 2D Machine Control

Machine control technology is moving deeper into the compact segment. New economical 2D systems from manufacturers like Case and New Holland provide an affordable step toward automated grade guidance. These systems use laser or benchmark references and sensors mounted on the boom, stick and bucket. An in-cab tablet displays live slope and depth readings, helping mini excavator operators hit grade without constant manual checks. A typical 2D setup for Case or New Holland mini excavators cost between $13,000 and $15,000 and installs in about a day. Operators familiar with laser benchmarks can learn the system in a short training session. Once installed, the 2D guidance system reduces downtime, eliminates the need for a grade checker and cuts the risk of over- or under-digging.

2D works well for trenches, footers and pads where full GPS 3D modeling isn’t required. It also functions indoors or under tree canopies where satellite signals drop out. The main limitation is that operators must re-benchmark when repositioning the machine. Still, 2D delivers a fast, practical upgrade for compact excavators, increasing accuracy, safety and productivity at a fraction of 3D system costs. I operated this system at Equip Expo, and I was impressed.

Ignite Attachments Soil Conditioner

Ignite Attachments showcased its new PTO-powered soil conditioner for compact tractors, designed for grading, driveway repair and seedbed prep. The implement fits tractors from 18 to 60 hp and comes in 48-, 60-, and 72-in. widths. Its spiral-pattern drum maintains steady contact with the ground, leaving a smooth finish even on hard or uneven surfaces. A slip clutch protects the driveline and replaces traditional shear pins. The conditioner also features quick hitch compatibility, a standard 540 PTO driveline and flip-up wing kits to expand coverage or let rocks pass through. An adjustable rubber deflector tilts away without tools for better control of material flow, while a sealed chain box with external tension adjustment improves longevity.

Operators can run the attachment forward for smoothing or in reverse for aggressive soil conditioning. Manual or hydraulic angle adjustments make it easy to windrow debris or shift material. Designed for durability and simplicity, this attachment offers a professional-grade finish for gravel drives, lawns or final grading jobs — all without overcomplicating maintenance or setup.

Kubota Expands Its Lineup

Kubota used Equip Expo to reveal three new machines: the SVL65-2s compact track loader, the RTV-X Long Bed utility vehicle and the F2510 front-mount mower. Each model adds comfort, performance and versatility across Kubota’s compact range. The SVL65-2s builds on the proven SVL65-2 platform with a 68.4-hp diesel engine, 2,100-lb rated operating capacity and optional high-flow hydraulics up to 27 gpm. New features include a high-back seat with air-ride option, LCD display, backup camera, keyless start, Bluetooth radio, LED lighting and a smoother auto-shift system. The Shockless Ride loader suspension reduces spillage and improves stability across uneven ground.

The RTV-X Long Bed adds hauling power with a 6-ft steel cargo bed rated at 1,212 lbs. It features a diesel engine, VHT-X transmission and ProKonvert flatbed conversion system. Available in Kubota orange or RealTree Camo, this UTV offers LED cargo lights, a cargo winch and heavy-duty tires. The F2510 commercial mower updates Kubota’s F Series with a 23.3-hp engine, new LCD display, relocated parking brake lock and improved lighting controls. These launches extend Kubota’s reach from turf care to construction with a balanced focus on comfort, visibility and control.

Cat Expands Ease-of-Use Technology

Caterpillar continued expanding its Ease-of-Use technology across the mini excavator lineup. The 5-ton Cat 305 CR now supports factory-ready E-Fence and Indicate systems, giving operators automatic motion boundaries and real-time grade feedback. E-Fence lets users set ceiling, floor, wall and swing limits, reducing the risk of striking obstacles or utilities. Indicate provides on-screen and audible guidance to help dig to grade faster and with less rework. Caterpillar also upgraded its 8- to 10-ton machines — the 308 CR, 309 CR and 310 — with new Cat C2.8 engines that match previous power outputs while reducing service needs. A third auxiliary hydraulic circuit allows more complex attachments, while new camera options improve visibility. A rearview camera is now standard, and the 310 includes a side-view camera as well.

The 308 CR also gains a factory angle blade option. Operators can backfill and grade with dozer-like precision using joystick controls. Blade float and a reversible bolt-on cutting edge extend service life. Caterpillar’s latest updates give assist features to compact excavator operators, helping contractors improve speed, accuracy and safety without moving up to larger models.

Bad Boy Terrain Small Articulating Loader

Bad Boy introduced the Terrain, a small articulating loader that combines compact loader capability with turf-friendly maneuverability. The machine runs a 40-hp Vanguard EFI gas engine and delivers a 1,718-lb rated operating capacity, 3,484-lb breakout force and 96-in. hinge pin height. It’s just 57.7 in. wide and 72 in. tall, weighing 3,850 lbs with a top speed of 8.8 mph. Articulated steering and turf tires minimize ground disturbance, making the Terrain ideal for landscape, golf and estate applications. A 19-gpm piston-style auxiliary hydraulic system powers a wide range of attachments, from buckets and grapples to snow tools and brooms. The loader comes standard with a 60-in. bucket and universal quick-attach plate.

Operator comfort and access are strong points. The Terrain offers wide visibility to the bucket edge, a premium suspension seat and optional enclosed cab with heat and air. The rear service bay provides open access to the engine, pumps and battery, reducing maintenance time. The Terrain bridges the gap between compact tractors and skid steers, offering lift capacity and comfort in a lighter, more versatile package. It operates via a joystick to control the boom and attachment and a steering wheel to control direction.

Case IronSkins Heritage Collection

Case turned heads with its new IronSkins Heritage Collection, a series of vinyl wraps that celebrate the brand’s legendary 1845 Uni-Loader. These wraps are built from 16-mil UV-resistant vinyl designed to handle harsh jobsite conditions. They resist fading, pressure washing and heavy use. The wraps are available for several popular Case models including the TV370B, TV450B, TL100, CX34D, 221F and 321F. Each design blends durability with eye-catching style. These wraps aren’t just cosmetic upgrades. They protect paint, extend machine life and give owners a fresh way to differentiate their fleets. At a show filled with compact loaders and wheel loaders that often look similar, IronSkins stood out as a simple, rugged way to add personality and pride to modern equipment.

Final Takeaway

Equip Expo 2025 delivered another strong year of innovation for compact equipment. From advanced wraps and mini loaders to accessible machine control systems, the show highlighted how contractors can gain performance, comfort and customization without jumping to larger machines. Compact Equipment will continue covering these updates as new models hit dealers and demo sites in 2026.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

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