The New Holland E140C SR was first previewed to the public in Paris at the Intermat show in April this year, as a direct replacement for the outgoing E135B SR model. The 13 ton class, short radius excavator, complies with Tier 4 interim emissions regulations, and fitted with New Holland Kobelco’s unique iNDr system, is claimed to be the quietest in the industry. When I first saw this machine in Paris, it was certainly getting a lot of interest! 
The machine is powered by a Mitsubishi D04EG-TAA engine which offers 99hp (74kw), which also like its predecessor features New Holland’s Cooled Gas Recirculation (CEGR) technology. The EC140C SR also features New Holland’s intelligent hydraulic system, which according to New Holland has been designed to put the operator in full control of the machines efficiency. This system ensures 100% pump utilisation during all applications, reducing friction losses and pressure drops, whilst adding to the machines overall fuel economy, which can be further enhanced by operating the machine in its new ECO working mode. 
Servicing and access for routine maintenance is well thought out, with all major components, including oil, fuel and air filters accessible from ground level, as is becoming the standard these days. One thing that applies to all manufacturers on this aspect is daily engine oil checks, in most cases, those of us who operate machines still have to check our engine oil from the bonnet access on top of the machine, I would like to see a facility in the future for this to be done from ground level too. 
I climbed on board to sample the machine for myself, unfortunately I was not in a position to dig with the machine on this occasion, as the newly launched wheeled excavators were taking up most of the digging area. I made myself comfortable within the new EVO cab, which would be a nice place to spend a shift. The first thing I noticed was the new multifunction monitor; through this monitor the operator can control the machines efficiency at all times. It enables the user to keep a track of the machines hourly fuel consumption through its integrated fuel economy meter. Also during operation, the ECO icon makes the driver aware that the machine is operating at its most efficient. As is the industry standard these days, the monitor offers the operator all other essential information and doubles up as a rear view camera when reversing too. 
I put the machine to work through a series of simulated operations, and I quickly realized what our reader Stuart Jamieson was talking about, the machine was incredibly smooth to operate, with very positive and precise hydraulics, it was just how I like a machine to feel, with great feedback through the controls. I was able to skim the bucket just above the grass with no deviation in the hydraulics when bringing in the dipper, whilst slewing and lifting at the same time, as an operator you can’t ask for anymore it was excellent! 
The ROPS and FOPS compliant EVO cab is a nice place to be as an operator, with all the usual creature comforts at the operator’s disposal. All round visibility from the large windows was excellent and is further enhanced by the aforementioned rear view camera. Another plus point was the quietness of the machine during operation, thanks to the machines unique iNDR system, ambient noise level is just 93dB. 
This machine is sure to be a hit on many urban jobsites, thanks to its compact design and extremely low noise levels especially on housing projects with its short radius design. I look forward to getting hands on with one again in the future.
