Develon Raises the Bar at bauma with their Next Generation of Excavators
With bauma 2025 in full swing, one name is making waves – Develon. Making its debut under its bold new brand identity, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, the company didn’t just show up, it stole the show. Unveiling its highly anticipated Next Generation ‘-9’ Smart Crawler Excavators, Develon has once again proven why it remains a powerhouse in construction machinery innovation.
Develon introduced two flagship models, the DX230LC-9 and the DX260LC-9, with the former starring in a static display and the latter turning heads in the dynamic demo area. These 23-tonne and 26-tonne machines, respectively, are more than just metal and hydraulics — they represent a giant leap forward in productivity, safety, operator comfort, and sustainability.
Let’s dive into why these new machines are more than just an update — they’re a whole new breed.
Setting New Industry Standards
Building on a five-generation legacy that dates back to the Solar range of the 1980s, Develon’s new -9 series isn’t merely evolutionary — it’s revolutionary. These machines don’t just perform; they think, adapt, and predict. With ten ground-breaking technologies packed into each model, the -9 range is a glimpse into the future of intelligent construction equipment.
As Inseok Hwang, Senior Executive Vice President at Develon, put it at the unveiling, “The -9 range is not just about building better machines; it’s about building a smarter, safer and more sustainable future for construction.”
Smart Safety that Sees and Thinks
Safety’s no longer just about flashing lights and loud alarms — it’s about smart prevention. At the core of Develon’s safety innovation is the Smart All-Around Viewing Monitor (SAVM), an AI-driven system that detects nearby people and obstacles. Using six cameras and three radars, SAVM works in three phases:
- 13m: People detection range
- 6m: Warning and slow-down activation
- 3m: Emergency stop to prevent accidents
This tech doesn’t just beep at danger — it acts. The E-Stop function automatically halts machine movement in dangerous zones, while the Virtual Wall confines operations to pre-defined safe zones, crucial for congested urban or underground projects.
Develon’s Advanced Lift Assist also deserves a shoutout. It gives the operator real-time feedback about the potential for tipping, offering a clear, live visual guide to ensure the machine stays balanced — and the jobsite stays incident-free.
Cab Comfort That Feels First Class
Anyone who’s spent hours in a machine cab knows the difference comfort can make — and Develon took that to heart. The -9 series features a wide, high-res 12.8-inch monitor, intuitive jog shuttle, and a user-friendly keypad that puts full control at the operator’s fingertips.
Add in a ventilated, cooling seat and improved visibility, and you’ve got a workspace that feels more like a cockpit than a construction cab. Oh, and did we mention the Digital Key? Operators can now unlock the cab, start the engine, and even set the climate controls — all from the MY DEVELON app. No key, no hassle.
This Bluetooth and 5G-powered feature isn’t just cool tech for tech’s sake — it’s a game-changer for fleet managers and rental companies.
Power Meets Efficiency
Performance-wise, the -9 excavators don’t just match the previous -7 range — they leave it in the dust. With a 12% productivity boost and 8% fuel savings, thanks largely to Develon’s in-house developed engines and the new Full Electric Hydraulic (FEH) control system, these machines offer peak performance with a lighter environmental footprint.
The FEH system includes:
- Electronic pumps
- Electronic Main Control Valves (MCVs)
- Electronic Relief Control Valves (RCVs)
In practical terms? That means fuel savings of up to 2700 litres over 1500 hours for the DX260LC-9. With fuel costs rising and green regulations tightening, that’s a win-win for both wallet and planet.
Productivity Tools That Do the Thinking for You
Digging deeper into the tech, Develon’s 2D Machine Guidance and Smart Control functions simplify complex operations and reduce operator fatigue. The Auto Breaker and Breaker Assist systems prevent blank firing and enable consistent performance without constant button mashing.
Meanwhile, the Weighing Assist system ensures optimal load volumes, enhancing safety and preventing overloading. For logistics-heavy sites, this tool alone can streamline operations significantly.
And when it comes to uptime? Develon’s Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) tech keeps a watchful eye on vital components like engines, pumps, and oils — predicting potential failures before they become costly breakdowns.
Designed for a New Era
It’s not just what’s inside that counts. The new design language of the -9 series speaks volumes about Develon’s brand vision. The Linear Core counterweight isn’t just aesthetically pleasing — it reflects Develon’s commitment to refinement and reliability.
Signature lighting and welcome lights — an industry first — not only look sharp but boost site safety during early morning or night-time operations. The four-corner beacon lamps ensure 360-degree visibility, reinforcing Develon’s promise to put both form and function front and centre.
What This Means for the Industry
Develon’s unveiling at bauma 2025 isn’t just about shiny new machines. It’s about setting a benchmark for what construction equipment should be: smarter, safer, more comfortable, and kinder to the environment.
For contractors, this means machines that work harder, last longer, and keep crews safer. For investors and policymakers, it signals a brand that’s not only in tune with market demands but actively shaping the industry’s future.
In short, the -9 excavators aren’t just machines — they’re a statement.
A Smarter, Safer Way Forward
Develon’s next-gen -9 crawler excavators embody the brand’s evolution into a leading force in smart construction. From the tech-packed SAVM and PHM systems to the app-based Digital Key and efficiency-boosting FEH hydraulics, it’s clear Develon isn’t just chasing trends — they’re setting them.
The legacy that began with the Solar range has reached a whole new orbit. And as Develon continues to break new ground, one thing’s certain: the future of construction just got a lot more intelligent.
