Hitachi Construction Machinery unveil new wheel loader

Japanese manufacturer launches ZW180-5 model for European market

HITACHI Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) have launched the new ZW180-5 wheel loader model which has been designed to meet the requirements of European customers, who are seeking highly productive yet fuel-efficient machines with a lower total cost of ownership. Operator comfort and safety, as well as easy maintenance features, have also been considered in the wheel loader design.

A 6.7-litre six-cylinder water-cooled turbo engine contributes to high productivity levels by enabling powerful digging performance and impressive travel speeds, as well as reduced fuel consumption. The ZW180-5 is equipped with a maintenance-free diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), which reduces particulate matter from the engine exhaust without the need for a diesel particulate filter (DPF).

A chemical reaction occurs at normal system temperatures, allowing a reduction of particulate matter in the exhaust without compromising the wheel loader’s performance or reliability. According to HCME, fuel consumption is reduced by up to 10% compared with the previous model thanks to a five-gear transmission and new fully electronic controlled engine, which combines a high-pressure common rail system and the DOC.

Reduced fuel consumption means lower running costs for owners of the new ZW180-5, as well as a smaller environmental impact. It has two simple work modes suitable for particular tasks. In ‘Standard’ mode, the engine speed is controlled, delivering smooth and efficient acceleration during loading, regular operations and travelling on level terrain.

The ‘P’ mode is useful when greater traction force is required for heavy-duty excavation and travelling quickly uphill. When changing work modes, the ZW180-5 has a quick power switch that boosts the power when required.

The ZW180-5 also has a new clutch cut-off system which controls the timing of the clutch for smooth operation during loading, regardless of the terrain. When travelling at high speed on flat terrain, the clutch can be released early so the wheel loader slows down smoothly by applying the brake pedal. When travelling slowly uphill, the clutch is released by pressing the pedal firmly to allow for easy unloading.

Operator comfort is evident from the spacious cab of the ZW180-5 loader. The heated air-suspension seat slides further back to provide ample legroom, while a tilting telescopic pop-up steering column has been repositioned to create additional space.

To enhance safety on the job site, the ZW180-5 offers greater visibility from the operator’s seat thanks to a pillar-less windshield, optional rear-view camera and large sun visor.