There's been a flurry of activity at Merlo Australia in recent months, with the company deciding to launch not one but four new telescopic handlers.
Officially making their debuts at the 2016 AgQuip show were Merlo's revamped Turbofarmer II range and new Multifarmer models, which were designed and made in Italy.
However, Merlo Australia says it expects the TF35.7-120 telehandler from the Turbofarmer II line-up, which features a 120hp Tier 4 interim engine, 6.6m boom and 3.5 tonne load capacity, to attract the most attention.
"What is really exciting about these machines is the cab, which is designed with operator comfort in mind," says Merlo Group Australia Manager, Nicola Quarti.
"At 1.1 metres wide, it is the largest cab on the market and is fully pressurised to ensure a quiet, dust-free work environment."
An air suspension seat, ergonomic controls and a fully sealed cab add to the comfort factor, Merlo says.
In addition, the machine has also been designed with safety in mind, with a ROPS cabin and a traffic light warning system featured as standard.
The load indicator lights in the cab will show whether the operator is working with safe loads or if they are overloading the machine.
Besides carrying out loading and lifting work, the telehandlers can also be used like tractors to tow ag-implements up to 21 tonnes with hydraulic trailer braking.
A mechanical power take off (PTO) with speeds of 540/1000 is standard on the Multifarmer.
Both the Turbofarmer II and Multifarmer offer transmission speeds of up to 40km/h and Merlo's CVTronic transmission.
Merlo's unique 'Ring of Steel' construction concept is also present on the new models, which gives them a sturdy build and protection against damage or collisions.
The concept consists of a steel bar 70mm in diameter, which surrounds the chassis of the telehandlers.
According to Merlo Australia Business Development Manager, Chris Wilson, the 'Ring of Steel' eliminates the need for bulky counterweights to be installed on the machines.
"The counterweight extends just past the back of the tyres, so versatility and manoeuvrability is excellent," he says.
"But we still have the stability, with the weight being distributed evenly across the whole machine."
The new models are available now in Australia, with pricing starting from $150,000 for the Turbofarmer TF35.7.
Find out more about Merlo's telehandler range at www.merloaustralia.com.au.
More stories from AgQuip 2016:
Walgett agronomist bags farming top gong
Revolutionary ATV helmet debuts in Oz
Hatz engines light yet powerful
Largest Faresin mixer wagon debuts at AgQuip