New Compact-Excavator Player

Vermeer enters the compact-excavator market with its CX line of seven models. These excavators are the first in the industry to offer an angled backfill blade for increased backfill efficiency, according to the company. The blade boasts five angle-backfilling positions: centered, +/-15 degrees to the right or left, and +/-30 degrees to the right or left. Fastened to the blade on the ditch side, two bolt-on extensions provide greater distance from the ditch during the backfilling function. The CX219Z features a variable-width undercarriage and zero tail swing. The heavier, turbocharged CX254 has a larger bucket and high breakout force. All excavators feature two-speed ground drive, 360-degree swing of the operator station, and the ability to change between excavator- and backhoe-style controls. Estimated list prices: $26,500 to $55,000.