Hitachi's new excavator concept is designed to revolutionize the operator experience
The LANDCROS One blends AI assistance with autonomous and remote machine capabilities
Hitachi Construction Machinery launched its vision for the future of construction equipment with its new excavator concept, LANDCROS One. The machine development represents a large shift in how machinery interacts with operators, job sites, and the broader construction ecosystem.
LANDCROS One is a unique collaboration with Grandstudio, an automotive and mobility design studio, that goes beyond conventional equipment development. This partnership leverages both companies' strength to create machinery that enhances the user experience.
Where the physical and digital spheres unite
The concept introduces Hitachi's seamless integration of physical controls and digital interfaces to create an intuitive operator environment.
The innovative design features a modular cab with intuitive ergonomics, specifically engineered to appeal to the next-generation workforce through gamifying operations and AI-assisted interfaces.
Hitachi's LANDCROS One embodies this philosophy through four pillars:
1. Intelligence that empowers operators
The concept's integrated AI and automation systems fundamentally change the operator experience by handling routine tasks and providing intelligent assistance during complex operations.
The functional design integrates cameras, sensors, and advanced digital assist systems co-developed with strategic partners. With combined onboard and offboard landscape scanning capabilities, including drone technology, LANDCROS One serves as a cornerstone in creating a comprehensive construction ecosystem.
This intelligent support system reduces operator fatigue, increases productivity, and helps address the industry's ongoing labour shortage by making advanced equipment more appealing to newer operators.
2. Global operations 24/7
LANDCROS One features connectivity and remote operation capabilities. The machine can be controlled from virtually anywhere, enabling true 24/7 operation through different time zones and allowing specialized operators to work across multiple sites without physical relocation.
These capabilities not only maximize equipment utilization but also enhance safety by removing operators from remote, difficult, and hazardous environments while maintaining control over operations.
3. Flexible operation for every skill level
Recognizing the diverse needs of today's construction workforce, the excavator offers three distinct operation modes:
- Manual mode provides complete control for operators supported by AI assistance, for standard or complex tasks reducing fatigue and increasing productivity.
- Autonomous mode triggered by operator instructions for repetitive and predicted tasks.
- Remote mode enables full operation from any location, 24/7 providing flexibility with operator availability around the world.
4. Adaptive power systems for every job site
Environmental responsibility meets operational flexibility with the concept's propulsion system available in three distinct power modes: electric, combustion, or hydrogen.
Innovation through collaboration
"LANDCROS One showcases Hitachi's vision of a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future, blending groundbreaking AI, gamified ergonomics, autonomous, and remote operations capabilities. We're proud to lead the next wave of innovation, empowering the next-generation workforce and redefining possibilities in the construction machinery industry," said Francesco Quaranta, president and CEO, HCM Europe.
"At Granstudio, we are proud to have partnered with Hitachi to bring to life a revolutionary concept excavator that redefines the future of construction equipment. By blending our expertise in design and innovation with Hitachi's engineering excellence, we have created a vision that pushes the boundaries of efficiency, sustainability, and user experience," says Lowie Vermeersch, founder and creative director at Granstudio.
"LANDCROS One is more than just a machine. It's our commitment to deliver solutions beyond machinery in a new construction ecosystem," added Francesco. "We're building a smarter tomorrow together with our strategic partners and customers."
