Komatsu has developed a new concept medium-sized hydraulic excavator that is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell.
The Japanese quarrying and construction manufacturer says that, by advancing the PoC (Proof of Concept) tests it started in May 2023, it has accelerated its efforts to embark on the commercial production of medium-sized and large construction equipment powered by hydrogen fuel cells in the near future.
In its mid-term management plan, Komatsu committed to minimising environmental impact throughout its business, targeting a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions from use of its products and production of its equipment by 2030 (compared to 2010 levels) and a challenge target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Komatsu says it has been providing a variety of products, services, and solutions to customers that reduce environmental impact, such as hybrid hydraulic excavators and electric mini excavators. The company adds that it is also engaged in research and development to provide products equipped with new power sources.
For the new concept machine, Komatsu adopted a hydrogen fuel cell system and hydrogen tank, which were produced by Toyota Motor Corporation on Komatsu’s medium-sized hydraulic excavator. In addition to Komatsu’s control technology, the combination of Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell system and Komatsu key components, Komatsu says it is working towards zero exhaust emissions and a significant reduction in noise and vibration, while delivering the same powerful digging performance and high operability as engine-driven excavators.
Medium-sized and large construction equipment both require a power source with higher energy density than that of small construction equipment, which has led to the move to electrification with batteries. Because hydrogen has a higher energy density and can be refuelled in a shorter time than is required for recharging batteries, Komatsu has been advancing its R&D efforts as a promising electrification choice for medium-sized and large models.
The company adds that it will continue its efforts towards the commercial production of medium-sized and large construction machinery equipped with hydrogen fuel cells by conducting PoC tests of this new concept machine.
