Innovative Iron Awards: Avant Tecno’s 645i and 650i Articulated Mini Loaders
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.
Power Size Ratio
Avant Tecno revamped its 600 Series this year with the power of its bigger 700 Series. The result is the two most powerful loaders in their size class, according to the company. The 645i and 650i utilize a Kubota 44-hp diesel engine, providing power and torque for work that is speed intensive and requires high pulling force. Avant also notes its 645i and 650i models are the most compact over 26-hp Stage V/Tier 4 Final compliant loaders on the market. The aux hydraulic power is impressive at 19.8 gpm, which is unique to a loader in this class. The new loaders can run almost any of Avant’s hydraulically driven attachments. When it comes to speed, the 645i has a max of 8 mph and the 650i has a max of 15.5 mph. Both of these loaders are also super easy to transport via truck and trailer.
These models also come with a telescopic lifting boom as standard. The length of the telescope is 23.6 in., and the maximum lifting height is 111.8 in. to the hinge pin of the attachment coupling plate. The hydraulic boom self-leveling system automatically keeps the load horizontal when the boom is lifted and lowered.
These new loaders also have a certified ROPS/FOPS open cab as standard. Both the L-cab and Avant’s latest GT cab, which is completely unique in this size class, are available as an option. The noise and vibration isolation of the spacious and modern GT cab is excellent, with efficient heating and ventilation, excellent ergonomics and large windows providing superior comfort for the operator. Air conditioning is also available in the GT cab
The original Avant concept pioneered 30 years ago guarantees efficient work: articulated steering allows for turning without tire marks, while the operator has an unrestricted view of the attachment and working area. The low center of gravity, together with the rigid articulation joint, increases stability and provides a higher tipping load.
The 600 Series features the Avant-specific quick-attachment plate for attachments; hydraulic quick locking of the locking pins is also available. The hydraulic hoses of the attachment are conveniently connected to a multi connector as in all Avant loaders. Avant’s range of attachments includes over 200 attachments. To learn more about the 600 Series, surf over here.
Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment
