Hitachi presents new ZX160-5 and ZX180-5 excavators

Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) will introduce the ZX160-5 and ZX180-5 medium excavators at Bauma. Designed for earthmoving applications and general construction projects, they are inspired by the feedback Hitachi received from owners and operators of its construction machinery all over Europe. They have therefore been developed with a variety of features to meet the needs of customers and delivers in terms of sustainability, productivity, versatility, comfort and safety, and easy maintenance.

The ZX160-5 and ZX180-5 are high-quality, efficient machines that can work in challenging conditions. Each model provides a safe, user-friendly work space for operators, and responds quickly and precisely. It also promises maximum availability, thanks to a range of easy maintenance features.

Striking a balance between power and sustainability, the ZX160-5 and ZX180-5 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 HIOS III hydraulic system contributes to the increased productivity of both models. It allows for faster operation with lower fuel consumption than the previous Zaxis-3 versions. The auto power boost function is designed to meet challenging production targets on busy job sites and has been increased by ten per cent to deliver an enhanced level of excavating and lifting power.

The ZX160-5 and ZX180-5 both incorporate an attachment support system, which highlights their versatility. The system has 11 modes that can be registered on the monitor for ease of use with different attachments.

With enhanced visibility, particularly down the right hand side of both new Zaxis-5 excavators, the operator can work in comfort and safety on the busiest construction sites. The monitor and door have been repositioned to enhance the view and also make 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 ZX160-5 and ZX180-5 have several features for easy maintenance to ensure high levels of availability. These include a multi-function LCD monitor, which displays a wide range of useful technical information, such as machine status and settings. Access for cleaning and replacing consumable parts, such as filters, has also been made easier on the new models.

The ZX160-5 and ZX180-5 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: “We develop new machines, concepts and specifications in accordance with customer and market requirements.

“The European market demands comfort, efficiency and controllability, and I believe that the Zaxis-5 is even more suitable to European requirements than the Zaxis-3. The Zaxis-5 has better fuel efficiency, lower noise levels, excellent comfort and even iPod connectivity.”