Near Future
Komatsu develops medium-sized hydraulic excavator concept with a hydrogen fuel cell to help minimize environmental impact
Komatsu has developed a concept machine for a medium-sized hydraulic excavator that combines a hydrogen fuel cell and Komatsu-developed key components to achieve carbon neutrality at project sites. By advancing the Proof of Concept tests it started in May, Komatsu will accelerate its efforts to embark on the commercial production of medium- and large-sized construction equipment powered by hydrogen fuel cells in the near future.
In its midterm management plan, Komatsu committed to minimizing its environmental impact, targeting a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions from use of its products and production of its equipment by 2030 (compared to 2010 levels) and a challenge target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
To help customers achieve carbon neutrality, Komatsu has been providing a variety of products, services and solutions that reduce the user’s environmental impact, such as hybrid hydraulic excavators and electric mini excavators. Komatsu is also engaged in research and development to provide products equipped with new power sources.
For the new concept machine, Komatsu adopted a hydrogen fuel cell system and hydrogen tank, which were produced by Toyota, on Komatsu’s medium-sized hydraulic excavator. In addition to Komatsu’s comprehensive control technology, the combination of Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell system and Komatsu’s key components, Komatsu is working toward zero exhaust emissions and a significant reduction in noise and vibration, while delivering the same powerful digging performance and high operability as engine-driven excavators.
Higher energy density
Medium- and large-sized construction equipment requires a power source with higher energy density than that of small machinery, which has led the move to electrification with batteries. Because hydrogen has a higher energy density and can be refueled in a shorter time than recharging batteries, Komatsu has been advancing its research and development efforts as a promising electrification choice for bigger models. To contribute to realizing a hydrogen society and carbon neutrality, Komatsu will continue its efforts toward the commercial production of large- and medium-sized construction machinery equipped with hydrogen fuel cells by conducting PoC tests of this new concept machine.
