HITACHI Construction Machinery (Europe) NV has announced the launch of a five-tonne battery-powered excavator.
The ZX55U-6EB has inherited the short tail swing of the diesel-powered ZX55U-6 and boasts zero exhaust emissions.
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.
Hitachi explained the digger delivers ‘lower noise levels, enhanced efficiency, exceptional performance in confined spaces, and fewer maintenance requirements and less downtime’ than conventional models.
The status of the electric drive system, including battery level and motor load factor, can be monitored remotely. A rear camera allows users to monitor the connection of the cable during wired operation.
The ZX55U-6EB is the first of its kind to be produced by Hitachi. It shares the same concept of the eight-tonne ZE85 electric excavator, which was developed by EAC (European Application Center GmbH), a joint venture between Hitachi and KTEG.
“Hitachi is delighted to offer our customers a new battery-powered model capable of working productively and efficiently in small spaces,” said 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.”
