Jeff Jacobsmeyer, regional business manager for the Central Midwest Division, Takeuchi-U.S., discusses industry challenges, how Takeuchi is responding to them and more.
Green Industry Pros: Can you tell us about the new product you’re showcasing this year?
Jacobsmeyer: We have a track dump that works really well. It’s a tracked machine, and it has a bed on the back, and it will actually dump to either side, so it has 180 degrees of rotation. We've got pilot controls and a 118-hp engine. It hauls about 3 yards of material, so you can get in those tight places. For cleanup, it works very well. With the suspension, it’s a nice ride for the operator, and a there’s a closed cab.
Green Industry Pros: What are some of the challenges Takeuchi is hoping to solve for the end user?
Jacobsmeyer: For the end user, there’s a lot of places they can’t get in to. (At Takeuchi), we’re in compact equipment. When you get these big amounts of material moved in small places, that’s a challenge.
Green Industry Pros: And are there any other trends you’re hearing from customers right now?
Jacobsmeyer: You have to keep your operators happy. Before, we’d have a lot of open cab units and things like that, but now owners are trying to make it a little more plush for the operators. When you put them in a nice cab, you’re going to keep the operator happy with efficient machines.
At Takeuchi, we’ve had a lot of interest in electric equipment. You don't have to worry about somebody contaminating the fuel. If you remember to plug it in, just like your cellphone, it will go to work for you.
