Komatsu’s hybrid machinery is providing the sector with more sustainable options, while delivering equal output and robustness. Mark Boyes, National Business Manager, Construction – Komatsu explains the benefits for industry.
In today’s civil construction landscape, a significant priority has been placed on reducing emissions and enhancing efficiency, with many major contracts and tenders outlining strict sustainability and progress guidelines.
Komatsu’s hybrid technology aims to answer this call, by providing a highly suitable solution that maintains performance characteristics, while offering additional sustainable qualities. As Mark Boyes, National Business Manager, Construction – Komatsu explains.
“When we look at Komatsu’s hybrid technology, we’re looking at decades of innovation in sustainable technology, not just a matter of months or years,” he says. “Komatsu’s hybrid range has been highly developed with the goal to reduce fuel consumption without the sacrifice of performance.”
Komatsu’s flagship hybrid technology models are the HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 Hybrid Excavators, the culmination of more than 15 years of research and development.
Introduced to the market as part of Komatsu’s ongoing efforts to be among the leaders in hybrid technology, these models use Komatsu’s unique Hybrid System, which captures energy during the machine’s swing motion and converts it into electric energy.
This energy is then stored and used to assist the engine during acceleration, resulting in significant fuel savings and reduced CO₂ emissions.
“The modern construction industry is pushing for greater sustainability with a higher level of efficiency. Nothing satisfies this brief more than Komatsu’s Hybrid machinery,” Boyes says.
“These hybrid models are just as robust as their conventional counterparts, with the addition of the advance hybrid system providing high efficiency, in part due to the electronic swing motor generator, that assists in capturing energy and supporting higher acceleration when slewing.
“The hybrid powertrain also hold a higher level of warranty, giving the operator and owner greater peace of mind.”
Both the HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 Hybrid Excavators offer fuel savings of up to 20 per cent compared to their conventional counterparts.
This reduction not only translates to lower operating costs but also contributes to a decrease in the environmental footprint of construction activities.
For contractors engaged in infrastructure projects, this means achieving sustainability targets without compromising on performance.
The electric swing motor generator and capacitor components also work together to deliver running at ultra-low idle (700 revolutions per minute), with the machine’s output able to be quickly boosted on demand by using power from the stored electric system.
Both models are effective in high-slew applications, such as loading crushers, mulching and other tasks requiring frequent directional changes.
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Power focus
The HB215LC-3 is equipped with a Komatsu SAA4D107E-3 engine, delivering a net horsepower of 110 kilowatts (148 horsepower), an operating weight of approximately 23,471 kilograms, and a bucket capacity of 1.20 cubic metres.
These specifications make it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from urban construction to utility projects.
The larger HB365LC-3 features a Komatsu SAA6D114E-6 engine, providing a net horsepower of 201 kilowatts (269 horsepower), an operating weight ranging from 37,180 to 38,780 kilograms, and a bucket capacity between 0.68 to 1.96 cubic metres.
The HB365LC-3 is designed for more demanding projects, such as large-scale earthmoving and infrastructure developments.
Boyes says that both models comfortably cater for a wide variety of applications, with Komatsu’s specialised staff able to advise on the most suitable option.
“Hybrid technology is front of mind because of the potential of sustainable and green construction. It’s something that’s definitely being talked about a lot more and we have the options to support it,” he says.
The integration of the Hybrid System in both models also helps to enhance machine responsiveness, particularly during swing operations, leading to improved cycle times and productivity.
Integration with smart construction
While the HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 do not feature onboard Intelligent Machine Control, they are fully compatible with Komatsu’s broader Smart Construction suite of digital solutions.
The Smart Construction platform consists of a range of smart solutions developed by Komatsu to help contractors and machine operators analyse data throughout each phase of a project, from tracking production and material movement, to billing and payload reporting.
With Komtrax fitted as standard, both the HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 Hybrid Excavators can be seamlessly integrated into connected workflows, providing valuable machine data and performance insights.
Paired with tools such as Smart Construction Remote, this connectivity supports informed decision-making, optimised fleet management, and improved project outcomes.
All these services, plus the machinery itself, is backed up by Komatsu’s after-sales support team.
This support is identical to conventional machinery, with a complimentary service for the first 2000 hours, standard warranty coverage and full technical support across Australia and New Zealand.
A proven solution
Komatsu’s HB215LC-3 and HB365LC-3 Hybrid Excavators represent mature and reliable solutions for contractors aiming to meet the dual objectives of performance and sustainability.
With a legacy of hybrid innovation dating back to 2008, Komatsu is aiming to continue its mission of providing equipment that addresses the evolving needs of civil construction.
Boyes says that this proven technology, coupled with Komatsu’s comprehensive support network, ensures that contractors can confidently incorporate these hybrid excavators into their fleets, reaping the benefits of enhanced efficiency and environmental responsibility.
“The hybrid units complement our broader exploration of alternative powertrain technologies, such as battery,” he says. “As modern construction demands solutions for sustainability, technology such as Komatsu hybrid will be key to driving the future of sustainable construction.”
This article was originally published in the May edition of our magazine. To read the magazine, click here.
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