Earthmoving, Machinery News, Wheel Loaders

Komatsu’s first electric wheel loader set for bauma debut

A prototype for Komatsu’s first fully electric compact wheel loader is set to be unveiled this month

The full electric compact wheel loader was developed by Komatsu and Moog

The wheel loader will be on show to the public at bauma 2022 where it will be showcased in Komatsu’s demo area in Munich, Germany.

The machine is the company’s first full-electric wheel loader and was developed with precision control system manufacturer Moog.

Komatsu says the loader produces zero-emissions thanks to its battery-powered drive system and is now ready for joint testing.

The electrified system – which was developed by Moog – includes an electric traction motor, lift, tilt and steering electric cylinders, power electronics, system control computer, battery and battery management system.

The integrated control system coordinates the operator’s actions across the machine while force required for traction and the loading system on the loader is provided by the all-electric actuators and motors.

Komatsu development division president Seiichi Fuchita says the wheel loader is an exciting step for the company toward emissions neutrality and hopes it can build upon the early success of the machine.

“To achieve our CO2 emission reduction targets from products in use of 50 per cent by 2030 from 2010 levels, [and] to achieve carbon neutrality by the end of 2050, we are looking for promising technologies from suppliers to accelerate our electric machine development,” Fuchita says.

“The machine built together with Moog combines the strengths of both companies and was finalised within a short period of time and we expect the joint testing will show the advantages of a full electric machine and will proof collaboration is beneficial for both sides.”

Following its debut at bauma, both Komatsu and Moog will conduct further testing to prove the machine’s efficiency, operating time and comfort as well as highlight the loader’s extended operating cycle and innovative functions.

The intelligent machine electrification system can be connected right away and is automation-ready, including sending and control capabilities and built-in tools to coordinate multiple axes of motion.

Moog construction business unit vice president Joe Alfieri says the focus has been on developing the most sustainable, functional wheel loader available.

“Our focus is accelerating electrification, automation and connectivity by enabling the world’s safest, most sustainable, and most productive machines,” says Alfieri.

“Our cooperation with Komatsu shows that industry leaders in the construction industry are ready for zero-emission machines and we are thrilled to collaborate with them to enable their journey with our production-ready electric, connected and automation systems.”

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