EXECUTIVE REPORT
Upsized Avant
Avant Tecno has developed a larger compact multi-purpose loader. Nick Johnson reports from the company’s expanding Finnish factory.
The small green Avant articulated loaders, armed with their multitude of different attachments, have proved popular in the UK. They appeal to many different end users and markets, which has helped them to get established in hire fleets and now their potential has got bigger - quite literally.
Since its formation in 1991, the Finnish company Avant Tecno Oy has produced progressively larger compact loaders. Now its previous flagship, the 760i has been surpassed with the launch of a larger 860i to take the ambitious family company up into the next size class.
Utilising completely new front and rear frames, the articulated machine provides a maximum capacity of 1,900kg and a maximum lift height of 3.5m which are, respectively, 600kg and 470mm more than the 760i. Whereas the 760i weighs 2,100kg, its big brother tips the scales at 2,500kg when fitted with a ROPS safety frame.
Stage V-ready
Power is provided by a Stage V-ready 42.0kW (57hp) Kohler KDI 1903 TCR common rail turbocharged diesel engine. Like the 760i, the newcomer has a very controllable hydrostatic transmission with a hydraulic drive motor on each wheel. Both models have a maximum travel speed of 30km/h.
The telescopic boom on the 860i has been scaled up and it gains a second bucket tilt cylinder to provide 45% more bucket crowd force. The boom’s hydraulic extension has been increased to 825mm to facilitate loading higher-sided trucks and the unloading of material from right across trailer beds.
The 860i has completely new chassis frames together with a stronger telescopic boom and increased hydraulic extension.
The 860i comes with the proven Avant quick-attach system so that it can be used with compatible Avant attachments. To accommodate other systems, like Euro 3, bolt-on adapter plates will be available. Whichever type is selected, users will appreciate the machine’s Multi Connector system that makes it quick and easy to connect or disconnect the hydraulic hoses on powered attachments.
The 860i is 50mm wider than the 760i and has 150mm more wheelbase to maintain stability. Following Avant tradition, the operator’s seat and controls are positioned on the front half of the articulated chassis to maximise forward vision.
As standard, the 860i comes with an open operator’s compartment and a ROPS-certified safety frame and FOPS canopy. There is also the option of a fully enclosed DLX cab carried on rubber mounts for noise and vibration isolation. This purpose-built heated and ventilated cab has been designed to provide good visibility. Options will include air conditioning, an air suspension seat and a rear view camera.
When fitted with the cab option, the 860i should weigh around 2,700kg so the machine can still be legally transported on a suitable 3,500kg plant trailer. The new machine is set to go into production in September and, in expectation of high demand, Avant Tecno (UK) Ltd has placed an initial order for 21 units.
Electric machines Avant has moved up a size class with the new 860i model. 28
Avant is also playing a leading role in developing electric machines. Its first e5 model, with a lead acid battery pack, went into production in 2017 and another version called the e6, complete with Lithium-ion batteries, followed in August last year. Avant claims the e6 was the first such powered compact loader on the market, using advanced
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