It’s another ‘emission’ accomplished for Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) with the launch of its first five-tonne battery-powered excavator
The demand for emission-free equipment from end users is now relentless, whilst leading original equipment manufacturers are equally committing themselves to a sustainable future. The mini excavator market is already well placed to embrace the technology and, with the likes of low emission zones proliferating, it represents a fertile growth market.
The introduction of a five-tonne battery-powered excavator from Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) is a further demonstration of these developments and, as well as zero exhaust emissions, the first Hitachi-branded model in this class delivers lower noise levels, as well as promising enhanced efficiency and performance in confined spaces, fewer maintenance requirements and less downtime.
That manoeuvrability in tight spots is facilitated by a short tail swing design inherited from the diesel-powered ZX55U-6 model, whilst the new ZX55U-6EB also provides equally high levels of performance. At the same time, wherever the environment is a priority – be it on urban construction sites, residential building projects, near hospitals and care homes, or waste material handling tasks – this 5-tonne solution will finds its place.
Customers can choose between battery-powered operation, using 39kWh lithium-ion batteries, and wired operation, which allows the machine to work while charging from a CEE 400VAC 3-phase power source. Utilising both methods ensures operators can use the ZX55U-6EB to work productively and continuously throughout their working day, while enjoying the comfortable cab with air conditioning as standard.
Owners can equally expect reduced maintenance costs and downtime, compared to a conventional diesel-powered excavator. The status of the electric drive system, including battery level and motor load factor, can be monitored remotely. In addition, reduced external sound levels (91dB) allow for greater flexibility in working times – which can extend into night shifts, for example – and safety is enhanced by a rear camera that will also monitor the secure connection of the cable during wired operation.
The new machine shares the same concept as the eight-tonne ZE85 electric excavator, which was developed by EAC (European Application Center GmbH), a joint venture between Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd and KTEG (Kiesel Technologie Entwicklung GmbH). The ZX55U-6EB might be the first of its kind from Hitachi, but the manufacturer is promising to expand its battery-powered products line-up in Europe in the future.
“Hitachi is delighted to offer our customers a new battery-powered model capable of working productively and efficiently in small spaces,” enthuses HCME President, Takaharu Ikeda. “We are working hard to meet the growing demand for zero-emission equipment and listening carefully to our customers’ requirements for improved safety, increased productivity and reduced life-cycle costs.”
