Centro De Gestión Y Desarrollo Inmobiliario Del Mediterráneo, a residential developer based in Elche, has added a Bobcat E17z mini excavator to its fleet for use on compact jobsites in the province of Alicante.
According to company director Manuel Esclápez Román, the choice of the E17z reflects the need to manage excavation and handling work on urban jobsites or in areas with restricted operating space, where compact dimensions, manoeuvrability and consistent performance become decisive factors.
The company’s relationship with the Bobcat brand is not new. Its fleet already includes a Bobcat 553F skid-steer loader, purchased in 2006 and still in service, as well as a more recently added Bobcat S530EV.
“The new E17z is the first Bobcat mini excavator we’ve owned, after years of renting for specific excavation jobs. We decided to buy it because of its compact size and versatility in confined spaces, low fuel consumption and ease of maintenance, along with the attractive Bobcat 0% financing for 36 months,”
Said Manuel Esclápez.
The E17z R2 has been configured with several buckets for the excavation and levelling operations planned on the company’s jobsites.
“Currently, the mini excavator is working on a residential housing project in Finestrat (Alicante), alongside Bobcat compact loaders, carrying out excavation, levelling and earthmoving work, thanks also to the Bobcat 25 dumper attachment installed on our Bobcat S530EV,”
Added Esclápez.
Reduced Dimensions for Jobsites with Limited Space
Among the technical features of the E17z is its Zero House Swing, ZHS, configuration, which keeps the upper structure within the machine’s turning radius. This solution reduces the risk of contact with walls, fences or other nearby obstacles when working in confined spaces and limits the exposure of components during parallel digging.
The machine’s compact dimensions make it suited to urban and residential jobsites, where manoeuvring space is often limited, and operations require precise control.
Digging, Loading and Lifting in the Compact Class
From an operational standpoint, the mini excavator combines fast cycle times and progressive controls, with digging forces suited to its weight class. Cushioning on the boom and arm cylinders helps make movements more controlled, while the dump height and ground-level reach support truck loading and reduce the need for frequent repositioning during work.
The machine’s stability and lifting capacity allow it to handle different jobsite tasks while maintaining steady control, even during more demanding operations. Low-effort controls also help the operator manage the machine with greater precision over extended work cycles.
Controls and Cab Designed for Daily Use
The E17z operator station is arranged to simplify machine use throughout the working day. Ergonomic joysticks, accessible controls and smooth-travel pedals help make manoeuvres more progressive and less tiring.
The automatic idle system helps limit fuel consumption during inactive phases and can reduce the noise and vibration perceived by the operator. The cab also includes a DAB Bluetooth radio.
Transport, Support and Use on Residential Jobsites
Ease of transport was one of the factors behind the choice of model. The E17z is equipped with lifting points, integrated tie-down points and an automatic slew brake, all intended to facilitate the movement of the machine between different jobsites, a frequent requirement for companies operating across multiple locations.
The relationship with Maquinaria Marcos Marín, S.A., the authorised Bobcat dealer that has supported the company for more than twenty years with service and technical assistance, also played a role in the purchase decision. The addition of the E17z expands the operating resources of Centro De Gestión Y Desarrollo Inmobiliario Del Mediterráneo, allowing the company to carry out a larger share of excavation, levelling and earthmoving work internally on its residential projects.
“The Bobcat E17z excavator is one of the most popular in Spain within the 1.7 tonne segment, standing out primarily for its Zero Tail Swing (ZHS) design. With this type of design, not only the rear but also the front corners remain within the turning circle when the tracks are fully extended, meaning virtually free rotation around the entire circumference. It is the ideal model for work in urban environments or indoor projects such as renovations,”
Commented Carlos Campos, Compact Equipment District Manager Iberia at Bobcat.
The retractable undercarriage also allows the E17z to operate through doorways or narrow passages, while the extension up to 136 cm increases stability during excavation work.
With the R2 Series, the E17z also integrates the SmartFlow load-sensing hydraulic system, developed to make control response more progressive and better manage fuel consumption. In the Spanish market, the model has gained traction among contractors and rental companies looking for a compact, transportable machine suited to different applications.
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