Bauma Blasts #6 (HD Hyundai Construction Equipment)

The transformation of HD Hyundai Construction Equipment Europe’s regular plot at Bauma, was nothing short of phenomenal. They just seem to totally change the layout every time the show comes around, making good use of every centimetre of ground available to them, and this year it was even more stunning!

There was not much talk about them in the pre-Bauma press material, but the undisputed stars of the show in my opinion were the all new Hyundai HX hydraulic excavator models. Two of the cutting-edge machines were displayed, with the HX360L seen working on the live demo area, whilst a HX400L model with straight style demolition boom was the centre of attention on static display.

The new machines which tip the scales at 36 and 40 tonnes respectively, have been totally re-designed from the ground up, with a whole raft of new technologies and a superior operator cabin offering unrivalled levels of comfort.

The new machines are powered by Hyundai’s award-winning DX08 diesel engine, and are said to blend brute force with remarkable fuel economy. Generating 341hp and a robust 1,460Nm of torque, the DX08 features an advanced two-stage turbocharger, delivering 23% more power than its predecessors. Impressively, this EU Stage V compliant engine achieves an 8% improvement in fuel efficiency, a real boon for cost-conscious operators.

The next-generation cabins feature premium leather seating with heating and cooling options, providing maximum comfort even on the most challenging jobsites. Dual 12.8-inch high-definition screens offer intuitive control, complemented by fully electro-hydraulic (FEH) joystick and pedal systems, allowing precise adjustment of hydraulic response to individual operator preference.

Servicing intervals have doubled, reaching 1,000 hours for engine oil and filters. Furthermore, thanks to the absence of EGR and extended DPF cleaning intervals (up to 8,000 hours), operating costs and downtime plummet significantly, keeping these machines running longer and harder.

At the other end of the scale Hyundai’s new HX19e battery powered electric mini excavator made its European debut at the show. The 2-tonne class model is offered with a choice of battery packs. The standard 32kWh battery offers around 3-4 hours of operation, whilst the larger 40kWh battery delivers around 6.7 hours of continuous operation.

New skid steers were also displayed for the first time at Bauma, including the HS120V, and the increasingly popular compact tracked loader variant the HT100V which is also a brand-new product for Hyundai.

These machines feature EU Stage V emissions compliant engines, vertical lift-path loader arm geometry and a comfortable operator cabin space with a sliding up and over entry door.

Hyundai’s dozer the HD130A was also presented at Bauma. The HD130A combines what Hyundai describe as best-in-class power with advanced features like fully electrohydraulic controls, precise 2D Blade Dozing Assist, and a robust undercarriage tailored for longevity. Powered by a 117kW (157hp) Perkins engine, it offers superior torque and efficiency, while Eco Mode and advanced cooling systems reduce fuel consumption and optimise operations.

The demo area was a new addition for Hyundai this year, and whilst we will probably never see the hair-raising performances that former Hyundai demonstration stalwart Doug Potter used to put on again.

However, it was good to see an all-British team performing in the seats of the 3 machines involved, which included the HW155 Hydrogen powered wheeled excavator, operated by aspiring youngster Ben Wade, alongside Will Goldstone on the HL955A wheeled loader, and long established demo operator Nigel Horton who took centre stage on the HX360L hydraulic excavator.   

Checkout the promotional video on the HX400L below.