Bauma 2022 will play host to the debut of Komatsu's first electric wheel loader.
The company recently announced that it has partnered with Moog to build a fully-electric compact wheel loader. The loader will be demonstrated and on display at Bauma in Munich, showing off its automation-ready, zero-emission, battery capabilities.
Moog says the loader is fully-electric—there are no hydraulics. The system that powers the loader includes an electric traction motor, lift, tilt and steering electric cylinders, power electronics, system control computer, battery, and battery management system.
Integrated software acts as the system’s brain. It connects and intelligently coordinates actions across the machine while the all-electric actuators and motors provide the muscle. Komatsu and Moog say the integrated nature of the system will enable industry-leading system efficiency and controllability.
“To achieve our CO2 emission reduction targets from products in use 50% by 2030 from 2010 levels, to achieve carbon neutrality by the end of 2050, we are looking for promising technologies from suppliers to accelerate our electric machine development,” says Seiichi Fuchita, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and President of Development Division Komatsu. “The machine, built together with Moog, combines the strengths of both companies, and was finalized within a short period of time. We expect the joint testing will show the advantages of a fully electric machine and will prove collaboration is beneficial for both sides.”
Moog and Komatsu will continue to jointly test the electric loader after Bauma 2022 to further prove out the concept. The two say they plan to build an electric loader that features an extended operating cycle, assist functions and a fatigue-proof operator environment.
“Our focus is accelerating electrification, automation, and connectivity by enabling the world’s safest, most sustainable, and most productive machines,” says Joe Alfieri, vice president and general manager for Moog’s construction business unit. “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.”
