Takeuchi launches the TB220e compact electric excavator

First published at CONEXPO-CON/AGG - March 10, 2020

Takeuchi plans to launch its new electric TB220e compact excavator in September 2020

Takeuchi-US has developed a fully electric excavator, the TB220e, which it aims to launch in September 2020. According to the manufacturer, the machine can operate for an eight-hour shift under normal operation – or around 65% load – from one charge.

The TB220e, which is comparable to Takeuchi’s TB216 diesel model, has two charging options to give it greater versatility. It can charge slowly overnight at 220V, or swiftly at 483V. The battery will last for 3,000 charge cycles which means that it should outlast the machine itself, said Takeuchi product manager Lee Padgett.

Since it produces zero emissions, and is very low noise, at 84dB, the machine is aimed at confined space or indoor applications. It weighs 1,940kg and has a horsepower of up to 8.8kW, with a bucket breakout force of 1,397kg, a maximum reach of 4m and a dig depth of 2.39m.

“I think we will see the market going towards electric as we see batteries coming down in price,” said Padgett. Takeuchi’s TB216H which can be powered either by a 11kW diesel engine or a 10.6kW electric engine has proved popular in its niche market since its launch three years ago, says Padgett. One of the differences in using it in electric mode compared to diesel, he adds, is that it is more responsive since it provides 100% torque from the get-go.

A fully electric machine has the benefit of no or low fuel costs, no need for oil changes and hence less maintenance costs and downtime.

Stand C20653