Takeuchi’s Electric Journey Continues at CONEXPO-CON/AGG

We have seen numerous electric mini excavator models on display at trade fairs over the years, some concept and some that have gone into production. At the last Conexpo show in Las Vegas 2020, we saw the TB220e electric prototype, which will be on display this year, now known as the TB20e.

As I understand it, the TB20e has been designed specifically for the North American market and Takeuchi has recently partnered with national hire company United Rentals, to introduce the first 100 TB20e battery powered mini excavators, to gauge the customers reaction to it and to gain feedback on the model in general.

The TB20e is essentially based on the hugely successful diesel-powered TB216 and features all the characteristics and digging performance of the conventional digger. However, power on this model comes from a 24.7kWh, 73 V lithium-ion battery, that the manufacturer says can provide a continuous working range of four to eight hours depending on the job and the workload

Takeuchi also state, that if extra runtime is required, the excavator can gain power from an onboard charger, with 95 V to 265 V single-phase power, to enable the machine to keep moving.

The TB20e which is a canopy only model, has an operating weight of 1,930kg, a maximum reach of 4,090mm, and a maximum dig depth of 2,390mm

A primary hydraulic circuit plumbed to mid-arm delivers 33.6 L/min for running hydraulically driven attachments. Load-sensing, two-speed travel shifts from low torque/high speed mode to high torque/low speed automatically when turning, pushing or traveling up an incline.

The operator station includes all the usual Takeuchi refinements including a 4.3-inch high-definition, multifunction colour monitor, electro-hydraulic joystick controls, key start, high-back adjustable suspension seat, traditional travel and blade control levers and an electronic dial throttle to increase motor speed incrementally. Takeuchi Fleet Management (TFM) telematics comes standard.

I will be looking forward to checking out this machine on the Takeuchi booth in the North Hall – N11843, where no doubt I will have the pleasure of bumping into Mr Takeuchi in the US product specialist Lee Padgett!

Checkout the video below from our friends over the pond 'For Construction Pros.Com' featuring the Takeuchi stand at Conexpo 2020 where Lee Padgett introduced the then TB220e.