As is tradition, the Merlo group did not miss the German appointment, reaffirming itself as a technological benchmark in its sector.
Key highlights at the Cuneo stand included the 2026 version of the “Tf 65.9,” the upcoming restyling of future agricultural telehandlers, and the micro “HyperCompact,” designed for operations in confined spaces
Merlo brought many innovations to Hannover. New products, first and foremost, but also prototypes and new operational solutions aimed at making telehandlers easier to use while emphasizing operational safety. The star of the product lineup was the “Tf 65.9,” a high-capacity telehandler with a 6.5-ton lifting capacity, almost nine meters of boom height, and 170 horsepower. It ranks among Merlo’s best-selling machines, equipped as standard with all technical solutions designed to reduce operating costs and simplify maintenance.
Particularly noteworthy in this regard is the powertrain, which combines the FPT Industrial “N 45” series unit—one of the best turbo diesels on the market—with the “CvTronic” hydrostatic transmission: two axial-piston hydrostatic motors powered by an electronically controlled hydraulic pump that operate in tandem or individually, depending on operational needs.
The entire system is managed by Merlo’s proprietary “EPD” (Eco Power Drive), which monitors the machine’s functional status and adjusts engine parameters to minimize fuel consumption.
These efficiency improvements, along with enhancements aimed at increasing reliability while reducing maintenance needs, were the main focus for Merlo technicians in developing the upgrades that characterize the 2026 version of the “Tf 65.9.” The entire powertrain and management systems have been optimized to achieve the lowest possible total cost of ownership (TCO). Significant work was done on the electronics, as the mechanical components were already top-tier.
Reliability and reduced maintenance requirements were also addressed through specific component upgrades. For example, the leveling cylinder pins are now conical to allow adjustment in case of wear. Modifications were made to the rotation mechanism of the chassis and to the chassis itself, now equipped with pins and bushings 45% larger, as well as to the hydraulic connections, standardized with threaded connectors capable of withstanding the highest working pressures.
The lubrication system was optimized, and specific interventions reduced fork oscillations during lifting, resulting in improved stability and operational safety—qualities particularly appreciated when using the “Tf 65.9” to support aerial platforms.
In practice, this machine has reached its maximum technical and performance maturity, with the next development step likely being a restyling: a design that maintains the historical identity of the telehandlers while modernizing them.
The upgrade significantly affects multiple machine components, from fenders to cabs, improving accessibility and visibility, and also includes a new telescopic boom designed to maximize machine performance. At the stand, this was previewed with a “Tf 38.10,” which featured a new ergonomic joystick in the cabin, signaling that the restyling will also enhance operator comfort.
This comfort is also ensured by the micro cab of the “HyperCompact,” a super-compact telehandler developed for work in confined spaces, such as farms, poultry and pig facilities, or riding schools. Its 1.5-ton lifting capacity and five-meter maximum lift height meet almost all operational needs in these sectors.
Among the German novelties, it is also worth highlighting the “Pedestrian Detection” work-area control system, which uses smart cameras to detect obstacles, people, or animals near the machine and automatically intervenes to prevent accidents.
Title: Agritechnica, from Merlo a lot of news
Translation with ChatGPT
