FAE’s RCU remote-control mulchers deliver compact power, slope stability, and proven reliability
With decades of experience manufacturing heavy-duty tracked carriers – most notably the renowned PT series – Italy’s FAE Group has now brought its engineering expertise to the compact remote-control mulcher market. The result is the RCU range: a line-up of three purpose-built models designed to deliver exceptional performance in demanding environments.
FAE had long supplied its industry-leading fixed-tooth mulching heads to other manufacturers. However, the lack of compatibility and purpose-built integration often caused operational issues for end users. This prompted FAE to take a different approach.
“FAE recognised a gap in the market for a fully engineered, purpose-built machine,” explains Ray Copland, attachments product manager at Rotorua-based Active VMA.
“Rather than adapting an existing platform, they built the RCU series from the ground up – taking the innovation of the PT range and miniaturising it into a compact, remote-controlled package.”
The RCU range consists of three models powered by robust Kohler diesel engines – producing 56, 74, and 120 horsepower. A standout feature is the specially designed cone-shaped oil sump, which enables the machines to operate safely on slopes up to 55 degrees. All critical components, including hydraulic pumps and electronics, are enclosed within a protective chassis, providing superior durability and shielding from debris and environmental hazards.
Performance is further enhanced by FAE’s intelligent load control management system. This system monitors rotor load in real time, automatically adjusting the machine’s forward speed when tackling heavy material and returning to normal once the load lightens, allowing operators to focus on terrain and other tasks.
Built with rugged terrain in mind, all RCU units come standard with a hydraulically adjustable undercarriage, triple-flanged idlers, automatic track tensioning, and an oscillating roller system. Rubber tracks are standard, with an option for steel single-grouser tracks on the RCU 75.
Additional features include:
- Proportional and reversible hydraulic engine fan
- 3.5” colour LCD remote controller screen
- Dual batteries with onboard charger
- LED work lights for low-visibility conditions
FAE also offers various mulching attachments to suit different applications. Operators can choose between a swinging flail grass mulcher for lighter vegetation, or a fixed-tooth mulcher with a bite limiter rotor – ideal for dense gorse, forestry slash, and even stump cutting. According to Ray, the fixed-tooth variant has proven especially popular in New Zealand, where similar heads have already seen widespread success on skid steers and excavators.
Now in service worldwide for the past four years, the RCU series has earned a strong reputation for reliability. One New Zealand operator who took delivery of the country’s first RCU 55 model 12 months ago offered glowing feedback: “It’s great to finally have a machine that works all week without any downtime. We’re getting through our workload – and making a profit.”
With their combination of heritage, innovation, and toughness, FAE’s RCU mulchers are helping redefine expectations for compact, remote-controlled land clearing equipment.
For more information, contact activevma.co.nz