Japanese multinational Hitachi’s African business, Hitachi Construction Machinery Africa (HCAF), is making available to the Southern African market the Zaxis 7G Series excavator and the BX100 Shinrai-Power backhoe loader.

These machines introduce higher efficiencies and increased safety for the mining and construction sectors, complementing its existing range of excavators, wheel loaders and rigid dump trucks in the region.

HCAF sales and marketing director Riaan Carstens says the increasingly turbulent economic environment is putting more pressure on customers to remain competitive.

The new product offerings, with their focus on high productivity and lower total cost of ownership, can improve efficiencies for users.

The Zaxis 7G series marks a significant advancement on the preceding 5G models, with the latest machine offering various improvements from engine technology to the hydraulic system, as well as cabin features.

Additionally, the new series has proven to use up to 24% less fuel, in ideal operating conditions.

“The enhancement of the 7G lineup is a strategic move to address the evolving demands of the industry. By focusing on increased safety and productivity, we are not only responding to the critical need for machines to perform more efficiently, but also ensure the well-being of their operators with the latest ergonomical enhancements of the new 7G Cabins,” Carstens states.

Hitachi has also made improvements on the excavator’s safety features and ease of maintenance.

The Zaxis 7G series product lineup includes the ZX490LCR-7G, ZX690LCR-7G and ZX890LCR-7G models that are designed for the mining and quarrying industry, while the ZX350LC and LCH-7G models are engineered to handle the construction environment.

The upgraded cab ensures an improved working environment and comfort for operators, while enhanced visibility, 360˚ camera system and LED lights improve safety.

Notably, the 7G series’ improved hydraulic system allows for a smoother operation while reducing cycle times and fuel burn.

In turn, the Shinrai-Power BX100 backhoe loader is a significant addition to HCAF’s portfolio, offering versatility, performance and safety improvements for customers.

The BX100's features, including a 99 hp engine and an operating weight of 8.6 t, are tailored to enhance productivity and user comfort, making it a reliable choice for professionals seeking a machine that delivers both strength and efficiency.

This model is also more fuel efficient than its predecessors, ensuring more cost-effective operations.

HCAF sales and dealer support manager Wade Peterson tells Engineering News & Mining Weekly that various accessories can be fitted onto the BX100, making it suitable for more applications beyond mining, quarrying and construction.

For example, the machine is well suited for hill cutting, digging, trenching, loading and materials handling in the agriculture and forestry sectors.

HCAF’s introduction of these machines to the Southern African market is testament to the company’s commitment to the region, particularly to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this market.

The company believes the continent is ripe for more growth and development of infrastructure as urbanisation and industrialisation propels its expansion – with HCAF standing ready to offer future-proof equipment to realise these ambitions.