Komatsu announces new 3-ton Electric Mini-Excavator in Europe
Komatsu is set to introduce to the European market, a new 3-ton class electric mini excavator equipped with a lithium-ion battery.
Komatsu regards the market introduction of this new model as an opportunity to develop a market for electric construction equipment, as it strives to become carbon neutral by 2050.
This new machine is a fully remodelled version of the “PC30E-5” 3-ton electric mini excavator which was introduced as a rental model in the Japanese market in 2020. While maintaining the current machine’s features of zero exhaust gas, zero exhaust heat, low noise and low vibration, the new machine is equipped with a lithium-ion battery in place of a lead-acid battery, which extends operating hours and makes the vehicle more compact and lightweight, thereby improving the convenience for customers.
Komatsu has positioned FY2023 as the first year for the market introduction of electric construction equipment, and the introduction of this fully remodeled 3-ton class machine is the first step in that direction. Komatsu is planning to launch this model in Japan as well.
The 3-ton class and other smaller models are often used for urban civil engineering and indoor work sites. Komatsu has received requests from customers for small electric construction equipment with zero exhaust emissions and low noise. Komatsu regards the market introduction of this new electric model as a springboard for the development of a market for small electric construction equipment.
DANTOTSU Value is defined as customer value creation that generates a positive cycle of improvement of earnings and ESG resolutions in Komatsu’s new mid-term management plan, entitled “DANTOTSU Value – Together, to “The Next” for sustainable growth”. Through this DANTOTSU Value, Komatsu will strive to create new values in order to take steady steps forward to the next stage for the workplace of the future and pass on a sustainable future to the next generation.
Main features
1. No exhaust gas, low noise and vibration for improved working environment
In indoor and night-time work, engine-driven equipment have been burdening on-site workers and the surrounding environment, especially with exhaust gases and noise. This machine achieves a clean working environment with zero exhaust emissions. In addition, since it does not generate loud noise and vibration like an engine vehicle, it reduces stress and fatigue of workers, improves safety through communication among workers, and provides positive considerations for the surrounding environment.
2. Large-capacity lithium-ion battery for extended operating time and compact body
A high-capacity lithium-ion battery extends the continuous operation time by approximately 20% compared to the conventional electric model. Furthermore, the weight has been reduced by approximately 25% and the tail swing radius has been shortened by approximately 30% compared to the conventional model. Both extended operating hours and a more compact body enable the machine to operate in a wider range of sites.
3. Body structure for safer and easier daily inspections
As routine checkup and high voltage areas are completely separated, you can safely engage in routine checkups without worrying about high-voltage danger. Furthermore, high voltage areas are not only free of routine checkup, but also there are no checkup items related to the engine or fuel. As a result, the number of routine checkups and periodic maintenance items has been substantially reduced.
