Komatsu’s Next-Generation PC220LCi-12 Excavator Makes World Debut at Bauma

Visitors at the Bauma construction equipment exhibition were the first to witness Komatsu’s newest excavator model. The 22-metric-ton PC220LCi-12 was unveiled by the company for the first time last week at the event in Munich, Germany, marking its global premiere. Komatsu has announced that the U.S. market can expect the arrival of the Dash-12 excavator later this year. The version of the PC220 showcased at Bauma was tailored for the European market, suggesting that there may be modifications in the North American variant.

Key details about the PC220 model showcased at Bauma include its integration of Komatsu’s updated intelligent machine control system, iMC 3.0. This system is designed to work with tiltrotators and offers features like 3D boundary control to avoid collisions with obstacles, auto swing for semi-autonomous truck loading, and functions to streamline trenching operations. The excavator is managed through a new 10-inch monitor equipped with 3D graphics.

The PC220 is furnished with a 1.4-cubic-yard bucket capacity and operates on a new 170-horsepower high-torque Komatsu engine. By leveraging the company’s latest electronically controlled hydraulic system, it achieves an 18% reduction in average fuel consumption compared to its predecessor. The new hydraulic system boosts arm and bucket forces by 7%. Komatsu claims that a novel P+ mode enhances fuel efficiency by 20% and productivity by 18%.

The cabin of the excavator has been revamped to offer 30% more legroom and a new premium seating option. Operator visibility on the lower righthand side has been enhanced by 50%. Additional features of the cabin include overhead cooling vents, joystick steering, and increased storage capacity. The excavator can be operated through an 8-inch touchscreen monitor, which can store up to 50 profiles for individual operators accessible via an electronic key or a unique ID entry.

Standard technology features of the excavator encompass an integrated payload meter, integrated 2D machine control, and a 2D virtual safety wall. Initially launched in Japan as the PC200i-12 in December, the PC220 model is set to bring significant advancements to the construction equipment sector.