Hyundai explores zero emission platforms

4 November 2022

Hyundai Construction Equipment has previewed an electric drive mini excavator concept which it says points the way to a potential zero emission driveline for future construction equipment. 

The 18E concept machine, which was shown at Bauma last month, has a 20.7kWh battery that is said to deliver a full day’s operation and performance equal to conventional diesel models. The recharging time is just under six hours when using a 220V site supply.

Based on the manufacturer’s compact Robex series, it has an operating weight of 1863kg with a canopy or 2030kg with a full cab. 

An inverter feeds the 18E’s 13kW electric motor, which offers a peak power of 27kW. This in turn drives the machine’s hydraulic pumps in the same way as a conventional 1.8-tonne diesel model, converting the mechanical energy in the electric motor into mechanical energy from the hydraulic circuit. 

Hyundai states that it is working on a range of other low-emission drivelines, including battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell systems. 

The concept mini excavator is expected to lead to production models that will be available to customers across Europe.