Komatsu develops electric mini excavator

Komatsu Ltd has unveiled its electric mini excavator, based on its accumulated technological expertise of hybrid construction equipment and electric forklift trucks.

Equipped with an in-house developed new charger, high-voltage converter and other devices, it offers excavation performance on a par with the internal combustion model of the same power output, while achieving zero exhaust gas emissions and a dynamic reduction in noise levels.

Komatsu expects a wider range of applications for this machine, including construction work near hospitals or schools or in residential areas, where contractors pay special attention to exhaust gas and noise during work, as well as inside tunnels or buildings.

The new electric mini excavator uses the ‘easy maintenance’ battery which powers the Komatsu FE-series electric forklift trucks.

When fully charged, this battery enables two to six hours of operation. It also allows for quick charging, for example, during a lunch break, extending the available working hours.

The machine allows for real-time monitoring of power consumption and charging conditions on the built-in monitor panel.

It also allows for the remote monitoring of that information together with the machine location and operating conditions via KOMTRAX.

All high-voltage devices are mounted in the rear of the mini excavator and there is no need for operators to touch any of them during daily checks before starting work, which offers improved safety and serviceability.

Komatsu is already testing this model at customers’ jobsites, working towards an early launch.