Together in electric dreams
It was not so long ago it seemed petrol and diesel-powered industrial machinery would always have the upper hand in the construction sector. Battery-powered machinery was naively regarded as a non-starter because it couldn’t match the power and reliability of its fossil-fuelled counterparts.
The electrification of construction machinery is making quick progress. Last year saw a whole range of new products reaching the market. For example, since February 2020, Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has been accepting orders for its ECR25 Electric compact excavator and L25 Electric wheel loader.It isn’t just compact equipment – mini excavators and small wheel loaders – that are being electrified - there is a wide range of equipment types and sizes going down the electric route which was evident at the recent Bauma exhibition in Munich.
What was also interesting is that at the event there were several examples of battery packs being used for mobile onsite charging. This seems to be gaining traction as the way to charge compact equipment on remote sites.
A number of exhibitors were showcasing hybrid engine solutions and hydrogen, both fuel cell and, H2ICE featured prominently at the show. At Bauma - for batteries the clear message was 'safety'- and battery manufacturers were keen to stress the safety and reliability of their products, particularly for use in harsh environments. As we head toward Plantworx 2023 (13th - 15th June 2023 East of England Arena, Peterborough) "On the path to zero emissions" will be a key theme of the show. Exhibitors, hot on the heels of Conexpo in Vegas, will be bringing their electric and alternative fuel offerings.