Operator tests the ZE135 electric excavator

Sebastian was given the opportunity to test the ZE135 (developed by KTEG, a joint venture between Hitachi Construction Machinery – and German dealer Kiesel), which was added to contractor Bäckströms’ fleet to help install a 500m stretch of cooling pipes in February and March this year.

An operator for five years, with previous experience of Hitachi Zaxis medium excavators, Sebastian was using the electric excavator to excavate the trenches, lay the two-way pipes and backfill ready for the completion of the contract. “My feeling after driving the ZE135 for some time now is that it is comfortable and I love the hydraulics,” he says. “It's also strong, productive, and fun to try something new.

“There is not much difference between a conventional diesel machine and this electric excavator. It's easy to disconnect the cables each morning, and you're ready to get to work right away. The biggest advantage of the ZE135 is the lack of noise. It’s much easier for me to communicate with my colleague when he is directing me, as we can hear each other so much better.

“At first, I was sceptical about testing the ZE135. However, now that I'm familiar with it, I think it's a good machine – and I would certainly recommend other operators to give electric power a try as well.”