KOMATSU has announced the launch of the all-new WA700-8 wheel loader, revealing the model has been designed to deliver ‘unparalleled levels of safety, increased productivity, exceptional durability, and impeccable environmental credentials’.
Before commencing development, the manufacturer’s engineers considered customer feedback, which identified safety, cost per tonne produced, CO2 emissions, maximising uptime, and operator wellbeing as key concerns.
“I’m very excited to introduce our WA700-8 in Europe, which offers a perfect match with our 60-tonne rigid dump truck. Without any doubt, it will excite any operator with its performance, large cabin and wealth of safety features,” said Jo Monsieur, deputy general manager product marketing from Komatsu Europe. “After more than a decade of development, this reinvented giant is now fully ready to claim its place in quarries across Europe and beyond.”
Equipped with a 578 kW Komatsu engine, the WA700-8 is suited to demanding quarry and mining tasks. Komatsu explained the combination of increased engine power and torque, a new cooling system, and reduced hydraulic losses results in fast cycle times and ‘exceptional’ fuel efficiency. To enhance productivity and operator comfort during V-shape loading, the WA700-8 features a throttle lock/rpm set function.
The loader meets EU Stage V emissions regulations and can be filled with B20 biodiesels and is 100% compatible with paraffinic fuels such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).
Safety features include emergency push buttons, certified anchorage and tie-down points, and battery, starter, and hydraulic lockouts. The machine also comes standard with full LED lamps.
The cabin is designed in an ergonomic way to ensure comfortable operation, while features like a trainer seat facilitate side-by-side coaching. A new advanced joystick steering system and electronic pilot control levers are also included.
A Bluetooth radio allows operators to connect their mobile phones to the wheel loader’s stereo system, while a roller sunshade blocks strong sunlight and heat.
Automation features, including an automatic digging system, semi-automatic approach, and semi-auto dump systems, aim to simplify repetitive tasks.
The loader will take pride of place for Komatsu at bauma 2025, where it will be showcased in a live demo.
