Komatsu unveils next-gen tech at Boots On showcase

Komatsu has brought its Boots On event back for the first time in seven years, giving more than 400 staff and customers a hands-on experience with its latest machinery and smart construction solutions at a major showcase in the NSW Hunter Valley.

Held at the Hunter Plant Operator Training School (HPOTS) in Cessnock, the two-week event featured around 40 machines ranging from compact excavators to large-scale dump trucks, offering rare access to Komatsu’s full range of equipment in one place.

“This event has always been a fantastic opportunity for us to connect staff with customers, and to see machinery they might not usually get to see all in one place,” said David Small, Komatsu Australia’s Executive General Manager for Construction and Utility.

A highlight was the debut of the PC220LCi-12 — a 24-tonne excavator marking the first major redesign of the model in nearly 20 years. The machine introduces Komatsu’s Intelligent Machine Control 3.0 (iMC 3.0), delivering enhanced semi-automation and safety features.

“The new PC220LCi-12 was built on extensive customer feedback, especially around cab design,” said Mark Boyes, Komatsu’s National Business Manager for Construction. “It improves productivity and precision on site but also provides operators with real-time data at their fingertips.”

“It offers major upgrades to the engine, hydraulics, operator space and control systems... The increased cab size, improved user interface and hydraulic control system make it easier for even the most novice operators to use.”

iMC 3.0 brings 3D boundary control, in-field design capability and enhanced semi-automation features. Safety is also improved with object or person detection and restricted area control.

Both the machine and tech are due for release in Australia and New Zealand in late 2025.

Smart Construction solutions were also on display, including drones, 3D modelling and live dashboards. “Fully autonomous earthmoving is evolving… but it’s unlikely we will see full autonomy for many years yet,” said James Muir, General Manager for Smart Construction. “That’s why our semi-autonomous machines guide operators with precision while still allowing them ultimate control.”

Attendees of Boots On saw drones capturing detailed 3D scans of the HPOTS site which were then processed on the Smart Construction Edge 2.0, ready to be transferred to Smart Construction Dashboard software. Further earthworks and as-built progress were captured directly from Komatsu machines equipped with 3D Machine Guidance (3DMG) or intelligent Machine Control (iMC).

“These solutions enable operators to achieve two-to-three-centimetre accuracy on every cut and fill, minimising rework, maximising productivity and ensuring projects stay on track and meet the highest quality standards,” Muir said.

Visitors also got a look at Komatsu’s compact range including the PC88MR-11 utility excavator, designed for tight residential access and tradie transport.

“The PC88MR-11 excavator is a standout addition — a nine-tonne machine that’s fully Tier 4 compliant and doesn’t require AdBlue or DPF,” said Carl Grundy, National Sales Manager for Utility Equipment.

“We’ve focused on operator comfort and serviceability, with features like five operating modes, automatic climate control and easy-access panels that make it a true game-changer for contractors working in challenging, confined areas.”

On the heavy-duty end, machines like the HD605-10 dump truck and WA475-10 loader were presented as cost-cutting, fuel-efficient solutions for quarry and waste operations.

“We heard at the event that keeping operational costs down remains top of mind for our customers,” said Nick Vrontas, National Business Manager for Quarry and Waste.

“Machines like our HD605-10 dump truck, which increases horsepower and payload while reducing fuel consumption, and our WA475-10 wheel loader, which features a new driveline and transmission that enhance fuel efficiency and lower emissions, really stood out as solutions to these challenges.”

“Beyond the machines themselves, we’re investing in technology like Smart Quarry Site and 3D machine guidance to help operators work smarter. These tools give our customers a clear view of on-site operations, helping them maintain safety, efficiency, and control over costs.”

Komatsu says the event’s success reinforces the demand for direct customer engagement and plans are already underway for future showcases.

“Komatsu is proud to lead the way in construction technology… We’re excited to host similar training events for customers in the near future,” Small said.

For more information, visit Komatsu Australia's website.