March 24, 2011 - Takeuchi used ConExpo 2011 to unveil what it claims is the world’s first all-electric, battery-powered excavator, the 3,792-pound TB117e.

It is a pre-production unit and, according to David Caldwell, Takeuchi’s product and training manager, a full battery charge will give six hours continuous operation – sufficient for a full day’s work, once stops and breaks are taken into account.

All powered up and ready to go: Takeuchi's David Caldwell with the TB117e all-electric excavator.

Recharging takes six hours with the 220/240-volt system used in much of the world and 12 hours with the 110-volt North American system.

Takeuchi plans for the production version of the machine – due out in the next couple of years – to be able to be operated directly from mains power when it is available nearby, said Caldwell.

Aside from its electric motor and battery, the TB117e’s specs are similar to the standard Takeuchi TB016, which has a slightly lighter operating weight of 3,254 pounds.

The TB117e has a seven-foot dig depth, a bucket break-out of 4,079 pounds per foot and an arm break-out of 1,709 pounds per foot.

It also has an expandable undercarriage and adjustable blade width, allowing it to more easily access confined spaces.

“Initial tests by Takeuchi indicate an 80 per cent reduction in running costs and a 55 per cent reduction in its carbon footprint,” Caldwell said.

“In addition to requiring no fuel, there are no oil changes, oil filters or coolants required – only hydraulic fluid and grease.”