Innovative Iron Awards: Yanmar’s ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B Mini Excavators
The Top Construction, Landscape and Rental Equipment Launched in 2022
Throughout 2022, the Compact Equipment crew traveled the countryside (tradeshows, product launches, zoom interviews, operation opportunities) to analyze and catalog every model of compact machinery released into the wild. Looking back, the last 12 months saw the introduction of an impressive array of off-highway construction equipment and OEM systems, but a certain set of equipment stood above the rest. We call them the Innovative Iron Award winners, and these particular units are, in our humble opinion, the best compact equipment released in 2022. Here comes a winner right now. See them all right here.
Exs of Excellence
Small shouldn’t mean spartan or limited. Yanmar Compact Equipment’s new ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B mini excavators (for instance) are powerful little diggers designed with operator comfort, convenience and ease of use in mind. The ViO17-1E has a 4,023-lb operating weight, dig depth of 7 ft, 7 in. and 14.5-hp engine. The ViO25-6B has a 5,908-lb operating weight, dig depth of 10 ft and 20.4-hp diesel. Both units are backed with an industry-leading four-year/4,000-hour warranty. Both units offer true zero tail swing tech. The ViO25-6B also includes Eco Mode, Auto-Decel Mode and auto shift two-speed travel as standard. The ViO17-1E features a retractable undercarriage. Here’s Jeff Pate at the time of launch:
Operators will appreciate the upgraded features in these new generation models,” said Jeff Pate, director of sales at Yanmar Compact Equipment North America. “From improved operator comfort and lighting to enhanced attachment coupling, the improvements make long days in the cab a little easier.
The ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B stand out from the competition with true zero tail swing technology for maximum workplace performance. This technology means no part of the cab or canopy extends beyond the track width which protects both the structure and the machine in tight spaces. For further performance in narrow jobsites, the ViO17-1E features a unique, retractable undercarriage that allows operators to hydraulically extend and retract the track width.
To enhance efficiency, the ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B include PTO quick-connect fittings for easier hookup or switching between attachments. Plus, an upgraded LED boom light is integrated into the boom to shine directly onto the work area so operators can easily see what needs to be done. Complete with an upgraded four-point tie system for easier loading and unloading as well as reliable stability during transport, these new Yanmar mini excavators are ready for whatever the job brings.
To minimize operator fatigue and further improve efficiency, the ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B also include a new seat and other creature comforts such as an ergonomic throttle and better display positions for easy access. With more intuitive controls, operators will also be able to improve efficiency with less training time needed. Updated positioning for displays and switches as well as control position improve ergonomics to make operating a ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B simpler.
For added productivity and efficiency on the jobsite, the ViO25-6B also includes ECO Mode, Auto-Decel Mode and auto shift 2-speed travel as standard features. ECO Mode helps extend engine life, lengthen oil change intervals and reduces fuel consumption by reducing engine speed and power draw when not needed. The mini excavator’s auto shift two-speed travel design conveniently shifts the machines between low and high range automatically, making switching between jobsite tasks and longer travel times seamless for the operator.
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The ViO25-6B includes SmartAssist Remote, Yanmar’s telematics system, free for five years on new machines. Using the integrated theft protection, the mini excavator’s owner can set a range from a specific location or a starting time, triggering SmartAssist Remote to send a notification if that range is exceeded.
SmartAssist Remote can also detect errors with electronic components and send notifications to service personnel and directly to Yanmar to streamline the diagnostic process. Additionally, the machine’s owner can view the operational status of the equipment in real time and view daily work reports that track use of the excavator, useful data that can improve jobsite productivity over time. Finally, SmartAssist Remote can track maintenance intervals and inspection items as well as notify the owner via email about upcoming maintenance requirements.
Both the ViO17-1E and ViO25-6B build upon Yanmar’s already legendary reliability. The upgraded LED boom light is integrated into the boom for better protection. For added durability, cylinder guards are strategically placed in front of the cylinders on the boom, arm and bucket to protect them from being hit. Learn more about these units right over here.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.
