Construction

Yanmar launches electrification unit for compact off-highway segment (IMAGE SOURCE: Yanmar)

Yanmar is to launch a new dedicated electrification unit focused on the compact off-highway segment

This new unit, which will commence operations in April 2025, will focus on delivering a diverse portfolio of e-powertrain solutions, including batteries and eDrives.

The ultimate goal is to help drive zero-emission solutions for compact off-highway machinery, according to Tetsuya Yamamoto, chief operating officer, Yanmar Holdings.

“This initiative is a major milestone in Yanmar’s commitment to realising our brand statement: A Sustainable Future,” he said.

“The development of e-powertrains is crucial for adapting the expertise we have built with diesel engines to a broader range of applications beyond just construction and agricultural machinery, and it represents an important step towards achieving carbon neutrality.”

As a component manufacturer, supplier and integrator, the new unit will work closely with Yanmar customers to electrify applications such as excavators, wheel loaders and other industrial machinery.

The new electrification unit will concentrate on three primary product areas: Yanmar-branded industrial machinery; machinery for OEMs; and components and e-powertrains for industrial machinery.

“As we face the challenges of climate change and strive for a sustainable society, it is essential to accelerate the development and adoption of electric powertrains that not only enhance product performance but also contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future,” said Yamamoto.

In recent years, Yanmar has invested in research and development to establish itself as a leader in zero-emission technologies in key construction equipment niches.

This includes strategic acquisitions, such as the 2022 takeover of Eleo Technologies, which has strengthened the group’s battery capabilities.

To spearhead the latest initiative, Yanmar has appointed Marko Dekena, who boasts a long career in electric and alternative energy powertrains within the automobile industry, to lead the new electrification group.

He said the new electrification division will not only support the ongoing transformation of the compact off-highway segment but also pave the way for a more sustainable future generally.

“By leveraging Yanmar’s deep understanding of our customers’ needs, we are dedicated to delivering technologies that will accelerate the transition toward zero emissions,” said Dekena.

In addition to electrification, Yanmar is also actively exploring hydrogen and alternative non-carbon fuels and resource recycling solutions to drive further advancements in environmental responsibility and carbon reduction.

Also read: bauma 2025: breaking new ground in construction and innovation

Each day of the bauma FORUM will focus on a specific theme. (Image source: bauma)

A leading trade fair, bauma is set to showcase the latest technologies for the construction sector, serving as a platform for industry discussions on key future topics. A major highlight of the event is the bauma FORUM, running from 7-11 April in the Innovation hall bauma LAB0.

Organised by Messe München in cooperation with VDMA Construction Machinery and Building Material Plants and VDMA Mining & Minerals, it will bring together experts from politics, industry, and academia to discuss challenges and innovations.

Representatives from the European Commission, European Parliament, and trade associations such as CECE and VDMA will provide regulatory insights, while industry leaders and universities present research projects.

Each day of the bauma FORUM will focus on a specific theme. On 7April, it will highlight climate-neutral construction sites, featuring a panel discussion with the German housing minister Klara Geywitz.

The bauma Innovation Award 2025 winners will also be announced, recognising advancements in climate protection, digitalisation, machine technology, construction, and research. 8 April will centre on the Mining Challenge, with discussions on the EU Critical Raw Materials Act, led by European Parliament member Hildegard Bentele.

Digitalisation

The conference will also focus on alternative drive concepts, with Bert van Hasselt, CEO NewTech at DEUTZ, exploring alternatives to diesel engines. The next day will examine connected construction, with Ralf Lüddemann from STRABAG discussing digitalisation and networking in construction.

Dr. Katharina Knapton-Vierlich from the European Commission will address European construction policy, focusing on sustainability. Beyond the bauma FORUM, the Innovation hall bauma LAB0 will feature themed areas. The Start-up Area will showcase nearly 50 young companies, with the top 25 presenting at the bauma FORUM.

Virtual reality

The Science Hub will display university research, while MiC 4.0 will present advancements in digitalisation. The VR Experience Zone will offer interactive exhibits on robotics, alternative drives, and additive manufacturing. bauma 2025 will also feature the THINK BIG! initiative, aimed at inspiring secondary school students to explore careers in the construction machinery industry.

Organised with VDMA Construction Machinery and Building Material Plants, it will include live machine demonstrations and career insights, with a focus on encouraging young women in technical professions. With expert discussions, technological showcases, and networking opportunities, bauma 2025 is set to be a key event for industry professionals, policymakers, and aspiring engineers.

With its robust capabilities in the 30 MT category, the MH3032 is set to become a preferred choice in the material handling sector. (Image source: Caterpillar)

In a testament to its ongoing commitment to industrial applications, Caterpillar is expanding its portfolio with the introduction of the Cat Next Generation MH3032 Material Handler

Positioned strategically between the MH3026 and MH3040—both already part of the next-generation platform—the MH3032 is built with performance, durability, and reliability in mind. This 30 MT machine integrates advanced technology to enhance operational efficiency.

Efficiency is key in material handling. The goal is to move and sort materials—whether waste, scrap, or recyclables—as quickly and efficiently as possible while minimizing fuel consumption and optimizing safety and operator comfort.

"That’s the essential principle of our next gen architecture. Keeping control over operating costs, without sacrificing performance, and it’s those parameters that come to the forefront in the MH3032," commented Vincent Migeotte, senior product and sales consultant, Caterpillar.

Versatile material handler

With an impressive near-15m reach, the MH3032 offers both drop-nose and straight-stick configurations for flexibility. Handling scrap is effortless with the standard Cat orange-peel grapple featuring a 1m³ capacity, while an optional 20 kW generator enables magnet attachments for even greater versatility.

The MH3032 is designed for ease of operation, incorporating Cat Payload technology, which allows operators to monitor lifting loads in real-time and track overall tonnage output. Safety is further enhanced with the built-in Cat 2D E-fence, which keeps the arm within a predefined working range, preventing collisions with the elevated cab and improving overall site safety. Additionally, the new Swing Assist feature automatically stops movement at operator-defined points, reducing unnecessary motion.

"Technologies like these not only help reduce the operator fatigue associated with repetitive tasks but also help improve site safety. Optimised movements also mean incremental improvements to time and fuel consumption," stated Migeotte. 

Inside the dedicated Material Handler cab, a built-in monitor displays dual external camera views to enhance visibility and hazard awareness.

Despite being a new model, the MH3032 benefits from proven components used across the MH3000 Next Generation range, ensuring reliability and easy access to parts. This means operators can expect the same high standards without compromising on versatility.

The machine is powered by the compact and modular Cat C7.1 engine, which meets multiple global emissions standards, including U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, and Japan 2014, with options for Tier 3 and Stage IIIA compliance in specific regions. The engine is designed for extended maintenance intervals, reducing downtime and operational costs.

With its robust capabilities in the 30 MT category, the MH3032 is set to become a preferred choice in the material handling sector.

"By meeting the demands of the 30 MT size class head-on, the MH3032 should prove a popular selection in the all-important material handling sector. It’s a fine machine, totally at ease with its next gen credentials, and we’re delighted to see it launch in 2025," concluded Migeotte.

The company is showcasing three new product innovations. (Image source: Bobcat)

At LogiMAT 2025, Bobcat is showcasing a number of new innovations as part of a thorough showcase of its material handling product lines, which include reach trucks, pallet trucks, stackers, and electric, diesel, and LPG forklifts.

The company is showcasing three new product innovations: new lithium batteries, a new line of Class 3 warehouse equipment and a new line of lithium three-wheel counterbalance forklifts. 

Bobcat is announced at LogiMAT 2025 the impending release of its new Li-ION battery line, which will come in a variety of capacity options. Each series will have this dependable, premium battery technology, which was created by Bobcat.

Lithium battery power can guarantee that work can continue more freely because of its 2-3 times longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries and its quick, effective charging. Furthermore, Bobcat's lithium batteries offer long-lasting value for every application thanks to their smooth forklift integration and 5-year/10,000-hour warranty.

The truck's CANBUS is integrated, so there is no need for a separate display; the cell chemistry is LiFePO4 (LFP) = lithium iron (ferro) phosphate; a heat management system is used; and a monitoring and diagnostics app is accessible.

The new BPM16/20N-7 pallet trucks are ideal for a variety of manufacturing, warehousing, and small business applications. For the best, most ergonomic operation, the tiller arm is lengthy. The operator keeps the ideal distance from the truck and exerts minimal effort. The pallet trucks in this series are trustworthy companions for any task because of their high-quality parts, sturdy construction, travel speed of up to 6 km/h, and ease of maintenance.
These vehicles, which have Electric Power Steering (EPS), provide safe and comfortable operation. The sideways protective arms offer extra stability and shield the operator during turns, while the suspension flip-down platform reduces body vibrations. The platform and arms fold up small inside the truck's outline when it is in walking operation mode, saving room.

The first Li-ION 3-wheel forklifts made by Bobcat

For light to medium-duty applications, the business is launching Bobcat's first Li-ION 3-wheel forklifts, the BNT series. These B16NT, B18NT, and B20NT models provide an affordable, environmentally responsible option that is suited to the expanding market for electric forklifts. Bobcat's electric counterbalanced lineup is expanded with the new range.

These forklifts' primary design feature is manoeuvrability, which makes them perfect for use in confined spaces. Despite their small size, these forklifts have an ergonomic design that gives the operator plenty of leg room and outstanding comfort. These forklifts, which are setting a new benchmark in tight space material handling, offer excellent stability and a smooth ride on any task.

Also read: Bobcat launches R-Series range of telehandlers