en.Wedoany.com Reported - Yanmar unveiled the prototype of its smallest compact wheel loader, the CL26, at ConExpo 2026, with plans to bring it to market later this year following trials with customers.

The new CL26 weighs approximately 6,000 pounds, is powered by a 44-horsepower diesel engine, and has a bucket capacity of 0.56 cubic yards. Yanmar positions it as a compact wheel loader, but it can also be classified in the small articulated loader category, making it the company's first small articulated loader product. In the model name, "CL" stands for compact loader, and "26" represents its weight of approximately 2.6 metric tons. Currently, Yanmar's smallest wheel loader is the V4-7, which weighs 8,422 pounds, has 39 horsepower, and a bucket capacity of 0.65 cubic yards.

Peter Ovrebo, Director of Product Management, said during the CL26's launch at ConExpo in March: "This is a completely new product for us. So this is not necessarily the final design. It's very close, but for us, it's still a prototype." Yanmar equipped the CL26 with features similar to its larger wheel loaders, including auto-leveling, up to five auxiliary hydraulic circuits, and a 6,000-pound payload capacity. Ovrebo added: "This really pushes the limits of a large machine, but in a much smaller package."

The CL26 has an operating weight of 6,063 pounds, a tipping load of 4,292 pounds, a breakout force of 5,170 pounds, a top travel speed of 16.8 mph, and an auxiliary hydraulic flow of 13.5 gallons per minute at 3,045 psi. The machine stands 7.45 feet tall and is 4.59 feet wide. The engine meets Tier 4 Final emissions regulations. The machine features articulated steering, allowing the front and rear wheels to track in the same path, which improves stability, reduces turf damage, and provides a short turning radius. A rear oscillating axle is designed to enhance operator comfort and machine durability. The parallel lift linkage enables the CL26 to load quickly and precisely without constantly adjusting the load angle. Controls feature smart control, fingertip control, and a multi-function joystick, while a hydraulic quick coupler allows for rapid attachment changes via two in-cab controllers.

This loader is a response to market shifts, particularly in the landscaping and tree care sectors. Some users find compact wheel loaders more versatile and less damaging to turf. Ovrebo stated: "I think there will always be a market for skid steers, especially at their price point. But I think as contractors and owner-operators start to look at their business case, a one-size-fits-all solution might not be the best approach. They may need to diversify their fleet with more suitable, specialized equipment."

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