Thwaites is to launch an electric 3-tonne dumper. The machine is being previewed at Bauma in Munich next week, an advanced concept unit prior to the new model being available in 2023.
Thwaites general sales manager Andy Sabin said: “As the demand for cleaner alternative fuel sources grows, we are keen to ensure we offer a quality product that delivers for our customers, their clients and the environment”.
Power is provided by four lithium-ion batteries operating at 48V. Each battery is rated at 5.75kWh, and two electric motors are incorporated, one for traction and the other for the hydraulics.
The electric drive dumper has a similar unladen weight as compared against the diesel/hydrostatic version. The main battery pack and driveline components sit lower in the rear chassis, lowering the centre of gravity and improving machine stability, says Thwaites.
The battery pack is designed to provide enough power to complete a typical eight-hour shift from a single charge. The standard on-board 3.4kW battery charger can recharge the machine fully in eight hours, while optional off-board chargers rated at 7kW (single-phase) and 22kW (three-phase) reduce this to four hours and two hours respectively.
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