Hyundai aiming high with launch of new A-Series wheeled excavators

HYUNDAI has launched a new range of A-Series wheeled excavators, boasting EU Stage V diesel engines.

The four machines, with operating weights of 14-23 tonnes, feature Cummins diesel engines with a combined after-treatment system and no requirement for EGR.

The line-up comprises the HW140A, weighing in at 14,900kg with a mono boom and 15,860kg with a two-piece main boom. The HW160A shares much of the same undercarriage and upper structure, with weights of 17,580kg/18,390kg. A compact radius HW170ACR, meanwhile, is offered exclusively with a two-piece boom, at 18,810kg. The range is completed with the HW210A, at 22,270/23,665kg.

The HW140A, HW160A and HW170ACR are powered by a 4.5-litre Cummins B4.5 diesel engine, replacing the larger 6.7-litre engine in the previous generation of machines. Despite the reduction in engine capacity, Hyundai added that the new models benefit from an increased output, with the HW140A, HW160A and HW170ACR all delivering 129kW (173hp), up from 117kW (156hp) on the previous generation HW140. The three machines feature a redesigned stacked cooling module, while a hydraulically-driven reversible cooling fan is now standard.

The larger 21-tonne HW210A retains a 6.7-litre engine, however it moves to the latest Cummins B6.7 model. With a variable geometry turbocharger, Hyundai revealed the B6.7 has a single module after-treatment system, with the DOC, DPF and SCR located in a single exhaust can. Again, there is no requirement for EGR and no need for manual DPF regeneration. As with the smaller engine, there is an increase in output, with the new unit delivering maximum power of 145kW (195hp).

The HW140A and HW160A excavators’ swing centre and lower frame has been moved forwards by 100mm, which has been described as boosting machine stability. The right-hand side of the upper structure comes forward 150mm to provide additional space for the fuel tank. The left-hand side moves forward by 230mm to improve visibility and create additional space for the engine bay. The rear swing radius on the standard counterweight HW140A and HW160A also moves forward by 200mm to cut the rear overhang and make the machines more manoeuvrable on confined sites, while increasing lifting capacity.

Hyundai said that for the reduced tailswing HW170ACR, the rear swing radius has been cut by a further 410mm, through the use of a cast counterweight. The upper structure width has been increased by 25mm.

On the HW210A, the boom mounting centre has been moved by 10mm towards the right-hand side to improve the gap between the boom cylinder and cab. Here too, the rear swing radius has been reduced, from 2,850mm to 2,740mm. On the lower frame, the wheelbase has been increased and the swing centre moved towards the rear of the chassis to improve stability and weight balance.

Additional steps are described as making it easier for the operator to enter and leave the seat, as well as making it easier to access the upper structure for service work. The cab features parallel wipers on both sections of the front windscreen, while an extra mirror on the right-hand side and a front upper pillar that is 50mm slimmer further improve visibility. The door features a larger lower window, making it easier to see the ground to the left of the excavator.

Hyundai added that a new steering column offers lower and upper section tilt and a central telescopic feature. With a slimmer design and no lever on the right-hand side, this is said to improve visibility. Optional joystick steering is also possible at lower operating speeds. The pedals have been repositioned and the optional two-way driving pedal has been deleted, with direction changes now possible through the switch on the joystick. All the excavators feature an 8” touchscreen display for function and control settings. Ride Control is an option on the A-Series models, described as allowing the machine to travel smoothly over rough ground.

Peter Sebold, product specialist at Hyundai Construction Equipment Europe, said, “The new range of wheeled excavators from Hyundai offers plenty of features for customers working in infrastructure and civil engineering. The revised boom geometry, in combination with LUDV load sensing hydraulics, provides Hyundai’s new wheeled excavators with outstanding performance in multi-function operation, smooth controllability and the necessary stability for maximum productivity.

“Hyundai is establishing itself in a growing number of market sectors, by listening to customer feedback and responding to their requirements. The A-Series wheeled excavators will continue our expansion in this demanding sector of the market. All of our customers can aim high with the new Hyundai wheeled excavators.”