In response to the growing need for emission-free equipment, Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) unveiled a prototype battery-powered mini excavator at Bauma. The ZX23U-6EB epitomises the company’s aim to accelerate innovation to address the challenges of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Hitachi-branded electric model delivers significantly lower noise levels, enhanced efficiency, and exceptional performance in confined spaces. Compared to conventional models, it has fewer maintenance requirements and less downtime.

The exceptional manoeuvrability of the prototype ZX23U-6EB is due to its short tail swing – inherited from the diesel-powered ZX20U-5B model available in the Japanese market. There are no compromises on performance compared to diesel-powered machines.

Contractors will be able to work on a broad range of projects with the ZX23U-6EB, especially on urban construction sites and residential building developments, where noise and emission levels are regulated and controlled by local and national authorities.

Meeting customer needs

There is a choice of either battery-powered operation, using 18kWh lithium-ion batteries, or wired operation, which allows the machine to work while charging from a CEE 400VAC 3-phase power source. Utilising both methods ensures operators can use the ZX23U-6EB to work productively and continuously through day or night shifts, while enjoying the comfortable cab with heating system as standard.

Owners can expect reduced maintenance costs and downtime, compared to diesel-powered excavators. Reduced external sound levels allow greater flexibility for working hours and applications in environmentally sensitive areas. Its compact size also means that it can be easily transported between job sites, and it is a versatile addition to rental fleets.

Developing sustainable innovations

The prototype ZX23U-6EB will be designed and produced as a collaboration between Hitachi and EACP (European Advanced Construction Products GmbH), a joint venture between Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd and KTEG (Kiesel Technologie Entwicklung GmbH). Further underlining its commitments to delivering sustainable solutions, Hitachi intends to expand its battery-powered products line-up in Europe in the coming years.

“Hitachi is strengthening its focus on a sustainable future and recognises the importance of fully realising technology to improve our resilience to climate change,” says HCME President Takaharu Ikeda. “With our new battery-powered models, capable of working productively and efficiently in small spaces, we are listening carefully to our customers’ requirements and working hard to meet the growing demand for zero-emission equipment.”

Prototype ZX23U-6EB specifications

Rated power:                            10 kW@2000 min-1

Operating weight:                     2 300 kg

Battery capacity:                       18 kWh

Onboard charger output:           6.6 kW

Charging inlet:                          CEE 400VAC-3 phase

Bucket ISO heaped:                   0.05m³

Overall length:                          3 860 mm

Overall width:                           1 410 mm

Overall height of cab:                2 395 mm

Rear-end swing radius (battery):  825 mm