The first telescopic handler is introduced to the world with a side-mounted engine and low-hinged boom at the rear of the chassis.
The Panoramic XS, the only model to offer total visibility around the machine for operator safety, is innovated by Merlo. Success is immediate, with an increase in sales, allowing Merlo to increase their spend on research and development. The Panoramic XS would go on to be the base design for most telehandlers on the market in the future.