Komatsu 13t-class electric excavator set for 2024 debut

KOMATSU has revealed details of a new all-electric excavator destined for domestic and European markets early in 2024.

The 13-ton class PC138E-11 will feature a 225-kWh lithium-ion battery for long hours of operation and is being viewed by Komatsu as ‘a step toward the establishment of a market for electrified construction equipment with an eye to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050’.

By equipping a high-capacity lithium-ion battery and integrating a cooling system for the battery and electric components, Komatsu claims to have achieved ‘a long operation time while reducing the rear-end swing radius’.

Komatsu revealed it is working to have a variety of customers – with different operating conditions and power supply sources – use the PC138E-11 as a rental model.

At Intermat 2024, Komatsu Europe will present the PC138E-11 with a Smart Construction 3D Machine Guidance kit. In addition to its zero exhaust emissions, features are said to include a compact body size, reduced worksite noise, a reduction in machine vibration and heat generation, less operator stress and fatigue, and a reduction in routine check-ups and periodic maintenance thanks to the absence of check-up items relating to the engine and fuel.

Other stats include 0.50 cubic metres bucket capacity, 7,970mm length, 2,490mm width, 3,005mm height and 1,830mm tail swing.

Denis McGrath, sales director with Komatsu distributor in Ireland, McHale Plant Sales, said, “As trends in motor vehicles, materials handling, heavy transport, and other sectors show, public demand for electric-powered construction equipment will grow, driven by small-to-medium projects and utilities contractors. For that reason, praise must go to Komatsu for their work in the development of battery-powered equipment.”