Kobelco Unveils Its First Electric Mini Excavator

Following extensive research and innovation in partnership with German engine manufacturer, Deutz AG (Deutz), Kobelco Construction Machinery Europe B.V. (KCME) has announced the launch of its first electric mini excavator concept.

The arrival of the Kobelco Electric powered 17SR comes just three years after the European introduction of the pioneering SK210HLC-10 Hybrid excavator, and further reinforces the Japanese manufacturer’s strategy of reducing its environmental impact.

The Kobelco Electric powered 17SR concept was presented for the first time at BAUMA 2019.

The development of the 1.7 tonne Electric powered 17SR mini excavator concept is borne from a combination of Kobelco’s expertise in developing highly efficient construction machinery for urban jobsites and Deutz’s superior electric drive technology.

Together, this combination will enable the Electric powered 17SR to deliver zero emissions, extremely low noise operation and reduced life cycle costs.

Commenting on the introduction of the new Kobelco Electric powered 17SR, KCME Managing Director Makoto Kato said: “As an innovative and forward-thinking manufacturer, we are always looking for new ways to make our construction machinery as powerful and efficient as possible, while reducing our carbon footprint. The Kobelco Electric powered 17SR will be our first fully-electric mini excavator, which we believe will be a popular choice for urban and small construction jobsites in the very near future.”

Following the arrival of the Electric powered 17SR, Kobelco’s long-term objective is to further expand its machinery line-up to include more advanced technologies, including electric-driven excavators, in its pursuit of promoting a sustainable society.