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Another “outside the cab” innovation for CTLs is the launch of Bobcat’s roller suspension system designed to offer a more comfortable ride.

“The Bobcat roller suspension system minimizes vibrations at the source - the ground,” says Rostberg. “There is a direct relationship between operator comfort and productivity. If the operator can comfortably stay in the seat longer, they will get more work done. Here’s an example of innovation happening outside the cab to bring a more comfortable experience to the operator in the cab.”

Tomorrow’s skid steers

Skid steers will continue to be refined by manufacturers to provide a more quiet, more ergonomic experience for operators, all in the name of productivity.

“You’ll probably see skid steers with very sophisticated cabs, like those you see in pick-up trucks today,” says Moore with Gehl.

While it sounds futuristic, getting the operator out of the cab entirely is already a possibility with Bobcat’s loader radio remote control system. “Remote operations could gain a stronger foothold in the next five years and will likely lead to new product innovations in the future,” says Rostberg.