Hitachi introduces new ZX225USLC-5/ZX225USR-5 excavators

Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) will launch the ZX225USLC-5 and ZX225USR-5 medium excavators at Bauma. More compact than conventional models and with a short-tail swing radius, both machines are suitable for working on a wide range of job sites, particularly where space is limited. These include earthmoving and construction projects, particularly in urban areas, as well as road construction, forestry and demolition applications.

The new ZX225USLC-5 and ZX225USR-5 have been developed by Hitachi using feedback from owners and operators of its construction machinery around Europe. They incorporate a variety of features to meet the needs of customers in terms of sustainability, productivity, versatility, comfort and safety, and easy maintenance.

Like all new Zaxis-5 models, the ZX225USLC-5 and ZX225USR-5 are high-quality, efficient machines capable of working in challenging conditions. They manoeuvre smoothly and precisely, and provide a safe and user-friendly working environment for operators. Thanks to a range of easy maintenance features, they deliver a high level of availability and help to keep downtime to a minimum.

Hitachi is committed to minimising the impact of its construction machinery on the environment, so sustainability was an important consideration during the design of the ZX225USLC-5 and ZX225USR-5. Both machines comply with the latest EU regulations on emission standards, but without compromising on efficiency. The powerful new-generation Isuzu Stage IIIB-compliant engine, for example, delivers higher productivity with greater fuel efficiency. The auto shutdown and auto idle features prevent fuel wastage and reduce noise levels, exhaust emissions and CO².

The ZX225USLC-5 and ZX225USR-5 deliver high levels of productivity on the job site due to the TRIAS hydraulic system, which allows for faster operation with lower fuel consumption than the previous Zaxis-3 models. The auto power boost function has also been increased by ten per cent for an enhanced excavating performance.

The versatility of the ZX225USLC-5 and ZX225USR-5 is highlighted by the new attachment support system, which has 11 modes that can be registered on the monitor for ease of use with different attachments. The two auxiliary spools are useful for attachments requiring multiple and large volumes of oil flow.

With enhanced visibility, particularly down the right hand side of the new Zaxis-5 models, the operator can work in comfort and safety on the busiest construction sites. The repositioning of the monitor and door has enhanced the view and also made access to and from the cab much easier. The rear-view camera offers a closer view of the counterweight to minimise the blind spot.

Like all Zaxis-5 machines, the ZX225USLC-5 and ZX225USR-5 have several features for easy maintenance to ensure high levels of availability. Using the technology within the new multi-function LCD monitor, operators can check the machine’s status and settings at a glance. Fuel and engine oil filters can be replaced at ground level, and non-slip steps allow easy access to the upper structure of the machine for other maintenance work.

The ZX225USLC-5 and ZX225USR-5 were created by a team of 200 engineers at the Design Centre at Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (HCM) in Japan. Yusuke Kajita, General Manager of HCM's Construction Equipment Development Centre, says: “The environment was an important development issue in the design of the Zaxis-5 models. Therefore, we have complied with strict engine, noise and safety regulations with the new Zaxis-5 range, in order to help secure a better environment for operators and society in general.”