Komatsu debuts mid-size hydrogen excavator

In another big step towards its ambitious plans to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, Komatsu has unearthed its medium-sized hydraulic excavator concept that combines a hydrogen fuel cell and Komatsu-developed components.

For the concept machine, Komatsu adopted a hydrogen fuel cell system and hydrogen tank, produced by Toyota Motor Corporation, on Komatsu's medium-sized hydraulic excavator.

Komatsu is working towards zero exhaust emissions and a significant reduction in noise and vibration with the prototype, as well as ensuring it delivers the same powerful digging performance as conventional diesel-powered excavators.

“Medium-sized and large construction equipment requires a power source with higher energy density than that of small construction equipment, which has led the move to electrification with batteries,” Komatsu said.

“Because hydrogen has a higher energy density and can be refueled in a shorter time than recharging batteries, Komatsu has been advancing its R&D efforts as a promising electrification choice for medium-sized and large models.

“To contribute to realising a hydrogen society and carbon neutrality, Komatsu will continue its efforts toward the commercial production of medium-sized and large construction machinery equipped with hydrogen fuel cells by conducting PoC (proof of concept) tests of this new concept machine.”

In its mid-term management plan, Komatsu is committed to minimising environmental impact through its business by targeting a 50 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions from use of its products and production of its equipment by 2030 (compared to 2010 levels), as well as a challenge target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

So far, Komatsu has developed a range of hybrid and electric machines aimed at reducing carbon footprint, such as its battery-powered micro excavator and electric remote-controlled mini excavator.