This report analyses the market in France for wheeled excavators, which are defined as machines which are mounted on tyres, are capable of turning through 360 degrees, and have service weights ranging from 6.1 to over 30 tonnes. Off-Highway Research classifies machines up to 6.0 tonnes as mini excavators, so they are not included in this report. Wheeled excavators with a weight classification of between 6.0 and 12.0 tonnes are referred to as ‘midi or ‘compact’ excavators. These machines, which often have a special design to minimise the tail swing, making the machines useful in narrow job sites, are included in the report's definition of the wheeled excavator.

The findings presented in this report are based on the existing database of Off-Highway Research and on an interview programme undertaken in France with leading manufacturers, importers and distributors towards the end of 2019 and in early 2020.