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Electric screed heat was originally a feature on LeeBoy’s larger highway pavers, but it is now an option for its mid-sized pavers. Lee says propane heat can create hot spots, and inconsistent heat from propane can cause streaks in the mat or even cause the screed plate to warp. Electric heating is one way to eliminate these problems.

Even though trends in electronics are playing a big part in the manufacturing of small and mid-sized pavers, Lee says the change that will have the most impact in the market is compliance with the Tier 3 engine regulations. “Engines meeting these regulations will be more costly to the OEM and, in turn, more costly for the small and mid-sized paver,” he says. However, Lee says all contractors will benefit from changes and improvements that make them more efficient, safer, or productive on the jobsite.

The Gehl Company also sees engine changes having an impact on pavers. Steve Kirst, product manager for pavers, says Gehl has added larger but quieter engines to its two models of smaller pavers, the 1448 Plus and the 1648 Plus. “The extra horsepower allows for better performance yet the lower sound levels make it not only easier for the crew to effectively communicate with each other but also makes the unit friendlier in confined residential and commercial areas,” he says.

Another improvement Gehl has added to its 1648 Plus unit is infinitely variable ground speed control. Kirst says this allows a contractor to be more productive because it precisely matches ground speeds with paving conditions. And more productivity is a key factor guiding trends.

Kirst says Gehl pavers are geared toward paving contractors who focus on smaller jobs such as driveways. These smaller crews need pavers that allow everyone to feel comfortable and confident while operating the paver, he says. And the improvements Gehl has made to its small and mid-sized pavers based on trends the company is seeing is one way it is helping contractors.