Excavators are becoming increasingly popular in the construction equipment industry.

Excavators are becoming increasingly popular in the construction equipment industry.

Puneet Vidyarthi 
Head of Marketing and Business Development, India & SAARC, CASE Construction Equipment

 

How do you view the current market scenario of hydraulic excavators in India?

In the dynamic landscape of India's construction equipment industry, the hydraulic excavator segment is undergoing a transformative phase marked by substantial growth. Propelled by a forecasted CAGR of 23.3% from 2021 to 2027, the sector is witnessing an upsurge in demand across various excavator types and variants. Notably, excavators are experiencing heightened popularity, driven by government initiatives focused on robust infrastructure and road development.

The construction equipment industry is witnessing a competition for operational advancements, with a focus on enhancing fuel efficiency and productivity through innovations in engines, hydraulic systems, structural design, tracks, and cab features. We at CASE, are at the forefront in adopting these technological trends. Our 22-ton CX220C excavator is purposefully designed for challenging terrains. It is equipped with a potent and dependable FPT Industrial engine to ensure optimal productivity with minimal fuel usage. This machinery is well-suited for tasks like quarrying, earthworks, general and road construction. Its sturdy construction, featuring a heavy-duty arm, boom, and undercarriage structures that are 33% more robust, enhances the machine's durability in rugged mining environments. Additionally, it comes with the CASE Intelligent Hydraulic System (CIHS), ensuring superior machine control while efficiently conserving energy and fuel throughout all phases of the operational cycle.

How do you look at the demand trend? What are the customer preferences for excavators?

Excavators are becoming increasingly popular in the construction equipment industry due to a growing demand for large-scale construction. The focus is shifting towards excavators, driven by the ongoing infrastructure projects in the country. The evolving market preference indicates a shift towards cost-effective and highly productive equipment, catering to the demands of construction companies keen on maximizing efficiency while minimizing downtime. This holistic transformation underscores the industry's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the construction sector in India.

What are the new innovations in your range of excavators with respect to the applications? How are you making a difference in the excavator market with your products and services?

Innovation has been at the forefront for us, we are constantly researching and developing our products keeping customer in our mind. Some of the new innovations in our excavators are:

Telematics: Telematics systems are being integrated into excavators to provide real-time monitoring of machine performance, maintenance needs, and location. This data helps fleet managers optimize operations and reduce downtime. The CX220C and CX220C LC excavators are equipped with CASE’s renowned Sitewatch telematics system, which provides real time updates related to the maintenance, tracking, utilization and security of the machine and alerts the owner in real time on fuel usage, battery, geo-fencing, engine etc.

Mini excavators (diesel): The compact excavator comes equipped with a distinguished 3.5-ton digger that offers customizable configurations, such as a cab or canopy, and the choice between rubber or steel tracks, providing unmatched versatility and operational efficiency. With an impressive digging depth of up to 3,070 mm and zero-tail swing, the CX35D is the top choice for dynamic urban and infrastructure sites, especially those with heightened traffic or diverse equipment types. Our commitment to innovation for increased productivity is highlighted by the incorporation of advanced features, including electro-hydraulic controls, hydraulic flow settings, load-sensing electronic pumps, flow-sharing control valves, and up to three auxiliary circuits. This technological sophistication gives the CX35D exceptional versatility, allowing for a variety of quick couplers and attachments to meet the demands of diverse applications.

Electric excavators: CASE has a global recognition for its electric excavator, which has been showcased recently at EXCON 2023. Although the equipment is not yet available in India, it adds to our innovation portfolio. The machine's three work modes (Power, Standard, Economy) adjust electric motor speed, with customizable control sensitivity, and a load-sensing hydraulic system ensures smooth, powerful performance.

But the innovation doesn't stop there; it extends to operator safety, where advanced features are meticulously integrated into equipment models. A comprehensive audio-visual warning system with over 25 alerts keeps operators informed, while ergonomic cabins ensure comfort and clear visibility. Additionally, intuitive controls contribute to a productive working environment. To minimize downtime and mitigate potential risks, an engine protection shutdown mechanism is in place, reaffirming the commitment to safety.

What is your outlook on India’s excavator market? What are your future plans? 

The excavator market in India holds promising growth prospects, fuelled by the escalating demand for construction machinery. Factors such as the 'Smart Cities Mission' and other urban development projects contribute to a positive and stable market outlook. The government's commitment to boosting economic growth through increased capital expenditure further bolsters the industry. Key sectors like roads, railways, ports, and urban development continue to be significant drivers of demand.

Our future plans align with the evolving landscape, and we are committed to introducing cutting-edge solutions that cater to the growing needs of the excavator market in India.