VIMEK has announced an updated version of its popular 870 forwarder – featuring a range of improvements on its predecessor.
The eight-wheeled 870.2, specifically designed for thinning, has been given a facelift on the 870.1 and boasts a range of technical tweaks.
As well as a host of upgrades, the new seven-tonne model features a fresh colour scheme, with dark grey/green replacing its previous light grey, and Vimek's 'Next Generation' logo.
Johannes Nilsson, CEO at Vimek, said: "It is a narrow machine, but still very stable. It has a low density and impact on the ground.
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"This is because of its low weight and dual-steering system function."
Other design tweaks include new handles on the bonnet, an increase in the turning angle of the bogie (from 8.5 to 10 degrees), and a reworked loading area for logs. This has been increased to 2.6 metres in length, offering a larger loading capacity.
The 870.2 – which has a ground clearance of 47 cm (1.5 ft) – keeps the 2.2 litre Caterpillar engine of its predecessor, which produces 75 hp and is engineered to supply the maximum torque when working at peak efficiency. It also has the same cabin as the 870.1, but can be equipped with larger screens, up to 10 inches.
Elsewhere, Vimek previously collaborated with its sister company Cranab to design and produce the FC4 crane, which was also on the 870.1. This, Vimek says, offers a good solution that will provide the experience foresters are looking for. The FC4 is a more compact design, specially designed for Vimek Next Generation. A FC5 crane is likely to be released in 2024.
Speaking during a Facebook Live announcement, Johan Johansson, sales engineer, added: "A lot of people have spoken about the good visibility. In thinning that is really important.
"The turning angle of the bogie increases from 8.5 to 10 degrees. So it has been steering capacity, which is quite a unique thing on a machine like this."
More details are expected to be announced in the coming weeks about the 870.2.
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