Komatsu is launching the PC01E-1 electric micro excavator, developed jointly with Honda Motor Co., as a rental model in Japan.
Komatsu and Honda have developed the PC01E-1 by electrifying the PC01 conventional micro excavator through the incorporation of the Honda Mobile Power Pack e:, which is a swappable mobile battery, and a Honda eGX electrified power unit. The conventional model is typically used close to people, trees, and flowers for pipelaying work, gardening, and agriculture.
As a result of electrification, the PC01E-1 model not only reduces noise and exhaust heat substantially, but also enables eco-friendly, comfortable work in either indoor or outdoor environments, thanks a lack of exhaust gas. As the batteries are swappable, customers can continue work by exchanging them.
As its new electric motor offers high performance even in low revolutions, the PC01E-1 model achieves more excavation than the conventional model in low revolutions, Komatsu says. As there is no engine installed, customers will no longer need engine-related maintenance or fueling, reducing daily inspection and maintenance.
Source: Komatsu
