Melroe M-400 '1960–61

M-400 was adapted from the M-200 by adding a rear axle. With four-wheel drive, it was the world’s first skid-steer loader. What made the skid-steer unique was the use of two independent transmissions that allowed it to turn in its tracks. The new loader was 6 inches longer than the M-200 and - with some tweaking - would eventually achieve a 70-30 front to rear weight ratio for optimal skid-steer performance.