KOMATSU is exhibiting a 20t class electric hydraulic excavator equipped with a lithium-ion battery system from Proterra for the first time at bauma 2022.
Since January 2021, Komatsu and Proterra have been jointly developing electric medium-sized hydraulic excavators and conducting PoC (Proof of Concept) tests on advance research machines at customers’ construction sites.
The machine is scheduled to be introduced to the European and Japanese markets in financial year 2023.
The excavator integrates Proterra’s lithium-ion battery technology, which has a track record for use in heavy-duty and commercial vehicles deployed in various fields around the world, with Komatsu’s components, such as the hydraulic pump, controller, and electric motor for work equipment operation. Komatsu has also developed a ‘robust’ cage structure to provide additional protection onboard the vehicle for its battery packs.
As a result, the manufacturer said it has achieved digging performance and durability ‘equivalent to those of engine-driven hydraulic excavators’.
The electric power makes it possible to work in environments without worrying about noise and exhaust emissions, and is expected to be used in urban areas and night construction work. The zero engine vibration is also tipped to help reduce operator fatigue.
