Reaching new heights in urban demolition, the CASE CX135E XRD redefines high-reach working in a compact footprint for the specialist demolition industry.
Turin, September, 2025 – Having created huge excitement at the Bauma exhibition in April, the CASE Special Applications Division has delivered a CX135E XRD high-reach excavator to a job site in Lyon. Operated by demolition specialist Franck Gojon and his son Kevin, from French contractor SJTP, the project calls for the deconstruction of an 11m high building within a restricted site, to enlarge a neighbouring school.
“At CASE we’re committed to delivering real-world solutions, that enable our customers to overcome complex challenges,” said Alain De Nanteuil, Head of Commercial Development for CASE Special Applications.
“As greenfield sites disappear, urban renewal and strict environmental regulation are driving the need to demolish existing structures and to recycle materials. This is fueling demand for increasingly agile demolition machinery, tailored to confined, complex job sites, where power and precision are critical.”
High-Reach Redefined
Created with input from experienced customers, the CX135E XRD leverages many years of CASE expertise with mid-size excavators. It takes advantage of advances in hydraulic, architecture and operator interface technologies, boasting an expandable undercarriage that can pass through a 2.4m gate. The machine has a compact transport width of just 2.32m, expanding to 2.92m for complete stability.
At 13m maximum height, the CX135E XRD is a true high-reach excavator, yet it access confined spaces normally only available to a 10-tonne machine.
“What I like about the machine is that even though it is extremely compact, it has lots of power, which is very important with urban tasks like this,” said Kevin Gojon, owner of SJTP.
“On this project, the additional reach of the machine also makes it possible to load debris into skips. Not having to keep moving the machine to do this makes the whole process a lot easier and faster. It also means that we can limit the number of machines on site, reducing the risk of collisions.”
Unparalleled Visibility
The CX135E XRD has a hydraulically tiltable cab and a panoramic top window, providing operators with incredible visibility and control. Every detail has been engineered to deliver an unobstructed view of the work site, even in demanding conditions. Two integrated cameras, on the boom and the arm, stream real-time visuals to a dedicated 10.4” display, ensuring precise operation, enhanced safety and total confidence for the operator.
“The screen in the cab allows me to position the machine in the right place to do the work. This is especially important on this job, as we have to carefully remove the roof and walls which back onto neighbouring properties. The cameras allow you to see even when something is hidden, or you lose direct visibility,” said Mr Gojon.
“The low centre of gravity delivers exceptional stability across the entire working range,” said Mr Gojon.
“The cab is protected by three demolition guards and armoured glass.”
The CX135E XRD also benefits from an integrated overload sensing alarm, for maximum safety in operation.
A Smarter Way To Work
As with all CASE E-Series machines, the CX135E XRD cab has a premium seat, intuitive controls and a 7” colour touchscreen display. A state-of-the-art Bosch Rexroth electronic Open Centre (eOC) hydraulic system allows operators to finetune and store hydraulic settings, including for multiple attachments.
“For a compact machine, the cab is quite spacious. The joystick controls are easy to use and with the fingertip-controlled tilting cab you can position yourself with a good view of the work to be carried out,” said Mr Gojon.
“Machine controllability has exceeded my expectations for this size of machine. It’s just smooth and accurate.”
“I find that it doesn’t take long to get used to operating the machine and the controls are very responsive,” said his son Kevin.
Features like an electric refuelling pump, auto-stop function and powerful LED work lights are standard.
CASE Special Applications
The CASE Special Applications Division delivers a wide range of specialist solutions like the CX135E XRD that work for customers, allowing them to operate more efficiently, safely and flexibly.
“More CASE Special Applications models will be launched soon, to address the needs of professionals in a range of applications, such as low ground pressure, long reach and tilt/rotate. We also offer tailored projects for our customers,” said Mr De Nanteuil.
“With this division, combined with advanced technology and ergonomic design, CASE is shaping the next era of construction.”
Quick Specifications
- Operating Weight: 14.5-tonnes
- Max Power: 55kW (73hp)
- Operating Width: 2.32-2.92m
- Maximum Working Height: 13m
- Cab Tilt Angle: 30°
- Lifting Capacity at Max Height: 3.5-tonnes in front position with blade down
- Recommended Attachments: up to 600kg crusher or sorting grab