Komatsu, Dimaag Unveil 4WD Mobile Megawatt Charger for Electric Construction Equipment

Komatsu and a company based in Silicon Valley have introduced a charger for electric equipment used in construction and mining industries. The Mobile Megawatt Charging System, created by Dimaag in California in collaboration with Komatsu, offers rapid DC charging up to 1 megawatt for battery-operated construction machinery. It is equipped with a modular DC-DC converter design that can deliver up to 6 megawatts of power. The system features 4WD, four-wheel steer, and the capability for vehicle-to-vehicle charging, making it suitable for maneuvering in tight spaces and rugged terrain. Operated remotely, the charger has torque vectoring to enhance traction by distributing power to individual wheels. The MWCS was unveiled by Dimaag and Komatsu at the Bauma trade show in Germany. Additionally, Dimaag has partnered with Hitachi to introduce a 1.7-metric-ton electric excavator at the same event.

The MWCS incorporates a compact and efficient DC-DC converter along with a long-lasting, high-discharge-rate Energy Storage System, both integrated with an advanced thermal management system for optimizing performance and safety during high-power delivery. The system features a 295-kWh battery pack in the Energy Storage System and a MCS Connector capable of delivering up to 1,500 amps and 1,000 volts. The vehicle moves around the worksite facilitating charging between equipment and itself.

Ian Wright, vice president of engineering at Dimaag and a co-founder of Tesla, emphasized the importance of practical solutions for off-road vehicle electrification that surpass the performance of large diesel engine vehicles, while also reducing total ownership costs. Taisuke Kusaba, senior executive officer for Komatsu Research & Development, expressed the commitment to advancing electric construction equipment despite challenges like installation costs and the need for power infrastructure, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 through partnerships with companies like Dimaag.

According to a spokesperson from Dimaag, the MWCS will be available in the U.S. in the future, with Komatsu managing the market entry timeline. The system specifications include a weight of up to 5 metric tons, an electric engine of 208 kW (279 hp), a top speed of 22 mph, a maximum incline of 40% grade, an Energy Storage System of 295 kWh, and a charging power of 1 megawatt through the MCS Connector. The dimensions are 12’ 2” x 4’ 11” x 4’ 7”.