Komatsu has developed an electric mini excavator, designed to set the course for next-generation construction equipment. Komatsu expects a wider range of applications for this machine, including construction work near hospitals or schools or in residential areas as well as inside tunnels and buildings.

Equipped with an in-house developed charger, high-voltage converter, and other devices, the machine offers excavation performance on par with the internal combustion model of the same power output, while achieving zero exhaust gas emissions and a dynamic reduction in noise levels, the company stated.

The new electric mini excavator uses the easy-maintenance battery that powers the Komatsu FE-series electric forklift trucks. When fully charged, this battery enables two to six hours of operation. It also allows for quick charging, such as during a lunch break, extending the available working hours. The machine allows for real-time monitoring of power consumption and charging conditions on the built-in monitor panel. It also allows for the remote monitoring of that information together with the machine location and operating conditions via Komtrax.

As all high-voltage devices are mounted in the rear of the mini excavator, there is no need for operators to touch any of them during daily checks before starting work, which offers improved safety and serviceability.

Komatsu is already testing this model at customers’ jobsites and is working toward an early launch.