by Nick Drew | Fri 03 Apr 2020
Digger’s Conexpo Highlights: The Best of the Rest
Komatsu chose Conexpo as the launchpad for its brand-new dozer the D71PXi-24. This machine features Komatsu’s Intelligent Machine Control 2.0 which includes, Patent-pending proactive dozing control, which according to Komatsu, allows you to automatically cut/strip soil like an experienced operator and can even operate automatically 100% of the time.
Check out this video from our friends over at Content with Media as Komatsu Product Specialist Jonathan Tolomeo explains in more detail.
South African manufacturer Bell Equipment launched a new tracked hauler at Conexpo 2020. The TC7A is the first of its kind for the company and has been designed for the North American market. Built in South Africa the machine is powered by a Cummins Stage V engine and features a Rexroth transmission. The undercarriage is an undulating “tank” style affair supplied by Camso. It is designed to reduce ground damage and ensure easy access and a smooth ride over rough terrain. A Bell spokesman said they are currently taking orders and expect to deliver the first machines later in the year, however with the current corona virus putting the whole world on stop at the moment, that could be delayed now. Although initially aimed at the American market, it could potentially be introduced into the European sector in due course.
Turkish manufacturer MST presented two of its backhoe loader range in the traditional North American centre mount style the M542 and M642 models.
Another rarity for me personally that I came across was the Huber “Maintainer” M-850-E. Huber is a long-established manufacturing company based in Marion, Ohio which has roots back as far as 1875.
A very American concept, the Maintainer is like a tractor come motor grader which as its name suggests is ideal for maintaining farm tracks, stone driveways and forestry trails.
My round up of some of the compact products on show at Conexpo will feature in the next issue of Earthmovers Magazine.