All-electric twin machines from LiuGong have made their debut at Municipal Works, with test drives showcasing their features
At Municipal Works 2025, which took place in Bendigo, VIC in March, LiuGong Machinery Australia introduced its newest zero-carbon solutions.
The exhibition marked the grand launch of the 820TE and 870HE all-electric wheel loaders tailored for the Australian market, addressing municipal demands from small and medium to heavy-duty scenarios.
As flagship products of LiuGong’s electrification strategy, both models boast zero emissions, ultra-low noise levels, and high energy efficiency – aligning with the nation’s tightening environmental regulations and cost-efficiency priorities.
Over the two-day exhibition, LiuGong undertook three showcases including static exhibitions of the machinery, test drives and in-depth technical analysis.
LiuGong says there was strong interest from attendees, solidifying the brand as one of China’s premium green energy construction machinery leaders in Australia’s municipal sector.
LiuGong Victorian sales manager Paul Martin says the exhibition was a great opportunity to get in front of people, especially operators, and chat about electric machinery options.
“Everyone loved the machines – we had great feedback on how quiet, smooth and comfortable the machines are,” he says.
“In the past there had been a lot of resistance towards electric options, because operators have been so used to diesel machines, but this year, all of them were blown away by the electric loaders.
“I don’t think they expected machines of this capacity to be electric, so they were all pretty excited and I think they’ve accepted that’s the way of the future.”
Star duo
Designed for road maintenance and landscaping, the 6.6-tonne 820TE features an intelligent temperature-controlled battery system and fast-charging technology, delivering eight hours of continuous operation on a single charge for high-intensity tasks. It has a two-tonne rated load capacity with a 1.2 cubic metre bucket capacity.
On the other hand, the 24.2-tonne 870HE has a 4.7 cubic metre bucket capacity and has been engineered for heavy-load scenarios like waste transfer stations and port logistics. It boasts LiuGong’s self-developed dual-motor drive technology, which the OEM says breaks traditional torque limitations of electric equipment, rivalling diesel counterparts in performance.
Martin says both machines are also well-suited for municipal works and indoor operation, due to the lack of noise and emissions produced.
“A lot of councils are close to suburban areas, so by having an electric machine, it can be operated early in the morning instead of a diesel-equivalent waking people up,” he says.
“There are also many indoor facilities such as waste and recycling plants that would benefit from a machine that doesn’t produce emissions.
“Everyone’s got emission targets to meet, not only councils, but quarries and the mining sector are also looking at electric options to achieve this.”
Immersive experience
Test drives of the LiuGong 820TE were a highlight of the event, drawing crowds of municipal representatives, contractors and professional operators.
LiuGong says participants praised the model’s control responsiveness, power output and ergonomic cabin design with intelligent interfaces.
A Victoria municipal equipment manager remarked “the transition to electrification is imperative and LiuGong’s products demonstrate China’s technological prowess and profound understanding of market needs”.
Beyond the 820TE and 870HE, LiuGong Australia showcased its full machinery portfolio, including loaders, excavators and rollers, via brochures and videos.
“We deliver not just equipment, but full lifecycle aftersales service,” Martin says.
“With Melbourne as our strategic hub, our core service centre stocks over $500,000 in parts, guaranteeing 98 per cent common component availability within 24 hours.
“Backed by 24/7 emergency vehicles and 52 authorised service outlets nationwide, we ensure a four-hour response time and 48-hour parts delivery across Australia.”
Market potential
LiuGong says municipal authorities, environmental engineering firms and related sectors have all shown interest in investing in its machinery.
The LiuGong Australia team says it will refine solutions based on client requirements, with plans to complete on-site inspections, equipment compatibility testing and promotional demonstrations for key clients within two months.
It aims to achieve the first batch of all-electric product deliveries within Victoria’s municipal sector by year-end, marking a critical milestone in Australia’s zero-carbon transition.
“The feedback we’re getting from procurement inquiries is that they’re trying to find a way to achieve their emission targets,” Martin says.
“This includes larger mining companies, who are in in a mad rush to find suitable electric equipment to help them reduce their carbon footprint.
“These electric loaders can help achieve this, as they can do everything a diesel equivalent does.”
For more information on the 820TE and 870HE all-electric wheel loaders, visit liugongaustralia.com.au
- Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter to receive the latest news in the earthmoving industry
- Never miss a great deal and subscribe to our monthly magazine
- Download a free copy of our latest digital magazine to catch up on the biggest news and developments in the earthmoving industry