Buzz over electric machines

As the earthmoving industry looks towards lower operating costs and reduced emissions, LiuGong’s battery electric range is growing in demand.

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Complementing LiuGong's established diesel lineup of heavy machinery, the manufacturer's battery electric range in Australia includes wheel loaders from seven to 41 tonne operating weight, excavators, graders, skid steers, and forklifts.

According to CDA Melbourne Branch Manager Steve Gurkin, interest in the range is rising as input costs, including diesel, continue to rise, prompting decision makers to look more closely at alternatives.

"We're demonstrating loaders and excavators across Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland," he said. "And since we displayed our machines at expos this past month, we've seen that interest spike."

Steve said that with operators unsure of charging times and overall cost of ownership, it was easier to have a conversation about specific needs and use cases to take out the guesswork.

"We get questions about charging times, and the answer will depend on what power supply is available," he said.

"We also have mobile charging stations developed for those with remote sites.

“Once we sit down and do the numbers with each client, they realise electric is not just a viable option, but can reduce costs."