Komatsu unveils 1st hybrid hydraulic shovel

Japans Komatsu Ltd. announced plans to release the world’s first hybrid hydraulic shovel, powered by a diesel engine and an electric motor. The 20-ton PC200-8 Hybrid has a regenerative braking system for stopping rotation of the shovel. The braking energy is converted into electricity that is stored in capacitors and used as supplemental energy when the engine accelerates. On average, the hybrid shovel consumes 25% less fuel than comparable conventional models. But when doing dredging and other work that requires a large amount of turning, it can reduce fuel consumption by 40%. Except for some key capacitor components, Komatsu produces the hybrid system in-house, including the specialized engine and the electric motor. At a list price of ¥27 million (US$259,973), the PC200-8 Hybrid will cost 50% more than its conventional equivalent. Komatsu will initially produce just 30 of the machines, which will be sold and leased in Japan from June. (May 14, 2008)