CASE launches new 651G ‘Evolution’

CASE has upgraded its mid-sized wheel loader range. The all new 651G Evolution fills a gap between the 621G and the 721G. Based on the parent model 621G, the new addition is designed to deliver improved loading performance. The larger 721G, 821G and 921G models have also been upgraded, and now feature increased tipping loads and bucket dump heights. This has allowed CASE to offer a new range of higher capacity rehandling buckets on all models from the 651G to the 921G, with curved side edges and a redesigned top guard. The 651G, along with the three larger models, features reinforced front and rear chassis sections. Heavy duty axles are now fitted as standard, with a choice of differentials on each axle. Evolution models feature a Level 2 ROPS/FOPS protected cab with a touchscreen display, designed to provide control over all machine functions. 

The ‘G-Series’ loaders allow the operator to access a digital manual through the monitor, while the cab features adjustable electrohydraulic control levers, new power modes and configurable buttons on the main console. An integrated weigh load scale allows the operator to load and record material moved, with the availability of different data sets. All of this information can be transmitted to the site office via a telematic portal. The loaders are powered by EU Stage V FPT industrial diesel engines. These have a capacity of 4.5l on the 521G, 6.7l on the 621G to 921G, and 8.7l for the 1021G and 1121G. Wastegate turbochargers are used on all models up to the 921G, with variable geometry turbos for the two larger models. All engines use FPT’s ‘Hi-eSCR2’ after treatment system, with no requirement for EGR. The machines are compatible with different fuels, including HVO and XTL. The new model is equipped with telematics enabled by a 4G ‘SiteConnect’ module that can be accessed via the new ‘SiteManager’ App. SiteConnect enables a two way communication between machines and CASE dealers, coming as standard with the G-Series Evolution.

Develon offers range of articulated dump trucks

Develon now offers a range of three articulated dump trucks (ADTs), comprising of the DA30-7 and DA45-7 6 x 6 models, as well as a 4 x 4 version of the DA45-7. The DA30-7 and DA45-7 6 x 6 models have payloads of 28t and 41t respectively. The DA30-7 is powered by the Scania Stage V compliant DC09 9l diesel engine providing 276kW of power. The DA45-7 is driven by the Scania Stage V DC13 13l diesel engine with an output of 368kW. Also powered by the Scania Stage V DC13 13l diesel engine, with an output of 360kW, the 4 x 4 version of the DA45-7 is intended to compete with rigid dump trucks (RDTs) in the 40t class. The DA30-7 and DA45-7 feature an articulation hinge positioned behind the turning ring to provide equal weight distribution to the front axle even during maximum steer articulation. This combined with a free swinging rear tandem bogie, is designed to ensure equal distribution of weight to each wheel and provide permanent six wheel contact and drive. The body shape and sloping frame ensure equal load distribution on all the wheels are designed to make the machines suitable haulers for soft terrain work, and the design of the articulation also provides equal load distribution on the wheels on both the left and right hand side when turning. Featuring a ZF EP8-420 transmission, the 4 x 4 DA45-7 is a two axle ADT with twin wheels at the rear, and with a dumper section similar to that found on RDTs in the 40t class. Develon’s states that the 4 x 4 DA45-7 ADT performs better in conditions that are tough for RDTs, and has a width of less than 4m , offering a better turning radius than a comparable RDT.

The new fully electric Avant e527

Avant Tecno has introduced a fully electric loader model Avant e527, which is equipped with a Avant ‘OptiTemp’ battery pack (27kWh) manufactured by its subsidiary Avant Power. According to Avant, the thermal management system of the patented lithium ion batteries provides the same capacity in hot and cold temperatures, whilst multi-level protection makes OptiTemp safe. Maximum operating time is about 6h for medium duty work, with the battery being fully chargeable with a fast charger in under 1.5h. Avant states that the maximum charging current has been increased by 50% compared to previous Avant electric loaders. It features two electric motors, one for driving hydraulics, and one for auxiliary hydraulics, boom, and steering. The cooling system in the engine package keeps the machine’s heat under control even in soft terrain, and the load resistance in short term hard work has been increased. The updated multifunction display provides information on battery status, temperature and power consumption etc. 

Finnish contractor Tampereen Porausteam Oy used the e527 on a interior demolition project which requires emission free and quiet operation. The machine was used inside the Elo shopping centre in Ylöjärvi, Finland. “It’s a good machine, just like its predecessor. It has a lot of power, and the battery life in the new machine is great – significantly better than in the previous model. We have never run out of power in the middle of the working day,” said CEO Sakari Haapaniemi. Together with the e527, Avant is launching a second model, the Avant 513, the main difference being the battery capacity of 13kWh. 

In other news, Avant Power has announced it has exceeded targets doubling the number of batteries manufactured compared to the original plans. The Avant Group decided to start battery manufacturing because there were no batteries optimised for Avant loaders. Located next to Avant Tecno’s loader factory, Avant Power has developed a new product and production simultaneously in about two years. The battery plant’s manufacturing capacity is increasing, with a second production line currently being built next to the first line.

Liebherr announces first battery electric loader

Liebherr has launched its first battery electric wheel loader, the L 507 E, which combines characteristics of a Liebherr ‘Stereoloader’ and a battery electric drive design developed by Liebherr. Liebherr states that the new loader relies on a high voltage battery system, having a running time of up to 8h. It has a top speed of 20km/h, but is available as a ‘Speeder’, with a top speed of up to 30km/h. The loader features stereo steering and a articulated pendulum joint which compensates for uneven ground. The model also features the same type of lift arms as the L 507 Stereo with z-bar kinematics, electro hydraulic pilot control, automatic quick coupler system, plus a height adjustable display. 

Another new product from Liebherr is the L 566 H, described by the company as the first large wheel loader with a hydrogen engine. Liebherr identified this power source as a solution for operating large vehicles that are difficult to electrify without CO₂ emissions. The engines are said to offer near zero emissions of greenhouse gases and almost no nitrogen oxides. Another characteristic is that the interfaces are comparable to those of a diesel engine, thermally and mechanically. Liebherr has now inaugurated the first hydrogen filling station in Salzburg. An important strategic partner in this project is Maximator Hydrogen, which not only built the station, but is also a research partner. Together, the companies are working on mobile filling facilities, so that machinery can be refuelled directly at construction sites. This can be particularly important for remote construction sites and machines that are not very mobile. 

Hyundai launches its biggest Stage V wheel loader

HD Hyundai Construction Equipment has launched the HL985A, its biggest Stage V wheel loader to date, capable of handling a 7.0m³ bucket. The HL985A is powered by a six cylinder EU Stage V compliant Cummins X12 diesel engine, which delivers 321kW at 2,100rpm and 2,300Nm of torque from 1,400rpm. Using its five speed transmission with lock up clutch, the machine is said to be able to achieve travel speeds of up to 40km/h. Built to work with a 6.5 or 7.0m³ bucket, with or without teeth and cutting edges, the z-bar linkage parallel lift arms provide a dump clearance at maximum height of up to 3,360mm, and the bucket breakout force is up to 28,400kg. The machine has a full turn tipping load of up to 24,950kg when equipped with the heavier counterweight. The HL985A has an operating weight of around 35,350kg, depending on specification. The loader cab is around 10% larger than on previous models. The ROPS/FOPS cab has an adjustable, air suspended, heated seat, a colour touchscreen and a Bluetooth audio system. The HL985A has a full colour, integrated rear view camera, visible through the main monitor. The machine is offered with 360° cameras to provide a view around the working area. 

All Hyundai wheel loaders are said to have a standard, integrated onboard weighing system with two operating modes. This automatically displays the weight of material as the bucket is lifted, or the operator can manually weigh loads. The system can store up to three total daily weights and the previous daily weight. The operator can specify target weights for the project or for the individual truck. This allows the operator to assess remaining material to be moved to achieve target weight. ‘A-Series’ machines also come with the ‘Hi-Mate’ telematic system that provides remote monitoring of machine functions, assisting with service and maintenance planning and diagnostics. The entire engine cover tilts hydraulically to the rear of the machine. The Cummins engine comes with ‘Engine Connected Diagnostics’, and a large volume engine air cleaner is standard. A three stage turbo pre-cleaner is offered as an option.