Kubota highlights retrofit batteries for mini excavators

Kubota, which will have 22 machines on its Bauma stand, will show a battery electric retrofit kit for two of its most popular mini excavators, the KX19-4e and U27-4e.

The manufacturer said it recognises the cost issue in buying battery electric machines, and is offering the retrofit kit as a less expensive option, although pricing for the kit has still to be confirmed.

Kubota will show an electric power retrofit kit for two of its machines, the U27-4e pictured here and the KX19-5a. (Image: Kubota)

The kit – which can be fitted by a dealer in one day – was shown in prototype form at last year’s Hillhead exhibition in the UK, but will be available to buy after Bauma.

The system comprises an 18kW battery for the 19-4 model and a 20kW unit for the U27. The diesel engine and fuel lines are removed and the battery pack and electric motor installed to power the transmission and hydraulics.

The OEM said the system could give a diesel engine a second life, but the diesel engine could also be re-fitted for onward sale if necessary.

The system is already being trialed by customers in the UK and France.

Other machines in Munich

Also on the stand will be the electric KX38 first seen as a prototype at the last Bauma in 2022. Ten to 15 of these are now in operation in Scandinavia.

Kubota said its approach to electrification was “focused and practical, aimed at providing an easier path to adopting electric technology without abandoning the flexibility of existing diesel setups.

“By offering a solution that bridges the gap between traditional and electric machinery, Kubota is making significant strides towards a more sustainable industry.”

In its conventionally powered range, new at Bauma will be the U17-5, a significant update to its well established U17-3 model which was first launched in 2008. A long arm version called the U18-5 will also be available.

Key changes include a more modern looking styling and cab controls, with a digital cluster fitted onto the pillar. The undercarriage is 60mm wider – now up to 1300mm - bringing more stability, and an independent travel circuit allows operators to use the boom, dipper, bucket and auxiliary functions without impacting on tracking performance.

The machine also has an auto-idle function – the first time on this size of a Kubota mini – which the OEM said would save fuel. The fuel tank capacity has also been increased by 5%.

The longer boom U18-5, which updates the U17-3a, has a revised counterweight design and undercarriage, which has added 67kg of weight. Its tail is 30mm longer, but retains its zero tailswing configuration.