CASE CX135E XRD makes its mark on Lyon skyline

Compact yet powerful, new high-reach excavator offers agile demolition solution for tackling restricted urban environments

REACHING new heights in urban demolition, the latest CASE CX135E XRD combines true high-reach capability with a compact footprint, designed specifically for specialist demolition contractors.

Following the new compact demolition excavator model’s debut at Bauma earlier this year, the first CX135E XRD has gone to work in Lyon with French contractors SJTP. The machine is deconstructing an 11m high building on a restricted site to create space for a neighbouring school.

‘At CASE, we’re committed to delivering real-world solutions to complex challenges,’ said Alain De Nanteuil, head of commercial development for CASE’s special applications division. ‘Urban renewal and environmental regulation are driving demand for compact, agile machines where power and precision are critical.’

With a transport width of just 2.32m, expandable to 2.92m for stability, the CX135E XRD excavator offers a maximum reach of 13m while accessing spaces normally restricted to 10-tonne machines. It features an expandable undercarriage, overload alarm, and a reinforced cab with three demolition guards and armoured glass.

Operator feedback has been positive: ‘Even though it’s extremely compact, it has lots of power – important for urban work. The extra reach also lets us load skips directly, which saves time and reduces machine movements on site,’ said Kevin Gojon of SJTP.

The high-reach excavator features a hydraulically tiltable cab and panoramic top window, giving operators exceptional visibility and control. Integrated boom and arm cameras stream live footage to a 10.4in display, ensuring precise operation, improved safety, and full operator confidence on site.

As with all CASE E-Series machines, the CX135E XRD cab has a premium seat and intuitive controls, while standard features include an electric refuelling pump, auto-stop, and LED work lights. A state-of-the-art Bosch Rexroth electronic Open Centre (eOC) hydraulic system allows operators to fine-tune and store hydraulic settings, including for multiple attachments.

The CX135E XRD is part of CASE’s expanding special applications line, with further models in development to meet demands in low-ground pressure, long-reach, and tilt/rotate applications.