Komatsu to display 20-ton-class battery-electric excavator at bauma

Komatsu has announced it will exhibit a hydraulic excavator fitted with a lithium-ion battery-electric system for the first time at bauma 2022, starting October 24 in Munich, Germany.

The 20-ton-class machine will be powered by a system from Proterra, and is the result of the two companies jointly developing electric medium-sized hydraulic excavators since January of 2021. The two companies have conducted Proof of Concept tests on advanced research machines at customer construction sites.

Mid-size machines in this size range are found on many job sites and applications handling excavation and loading operations with their power and durability. In the case of this machine, the entire body control system is optimized by capitalizing on Komatsu's proprietary coordinating technology. It specifically incorporates Proterra's lithium-ion battery technology, which has a proven track record for use in heavy-duty and commercial vehicles in various fields, with Komatsu components such as the hydraulic pump, controller and electric motor for work equipment operation. 

In addition, Komatsu has developed a robust cage structure to provide additional protection onboard the vehicle for its battery packs.

The result of this work has been digging performance and durability equal to that of engine-driven hydraulic excavators, Komatsu states. The Proterra-powered battery system enables operation for up to eight hours when fully charged.

Electric power makes it possible to work comfortably in various work environments without concerns for noise and exhaust emissions. It is expected this machine will be used for work in urban areas and in nighttime construction work. Zero engine vibration will help reduce operator fatigue.

Komatsu has declared its intention of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, and aims to develop safe, highly productive, smart, and clean workplaces for the future.