Kobelco presents fully electric mini excavators SK20 and SK90 for the European market

With the SK20 and SK90, Kobelco is bringing two fully electric mini excavators to Europe. The models are on public display for the first time and have been specifically designed for urban construction sites where zero emissions and low noise levels are crucial.

SK20 and SK90: New electric compact excavators from Kobelco

Für Kobelco ist es ein bedeutender Schritt: Noch nie zuvor wurden der SK20 und der SK90 außerhalb Japans präsentiert. Nun bleiben beide Maschinen in Europa – zunächst im Rahmen eines Tests. Die Rückmeldungen aus diesem Einsatz sollen zeigen, wie gut sich die vollelektrischen Bagger unter europäischen Bedingungen behaupten.

Sollte die Resonanz überzeugen, ist der nächste Schritt klar: der Verkaufsstart in Europa. Der Hersteller betont dabei, dass der Fokus auf Praxistauglichkeit liegt – ohne Vorserienstatus oder eingeschränkte Funktionalität.

All-electric mini excavators: focus on operating time, dimensions and technology

Both models are designed for an operating time of around six to seven hours - depending on the application and load. This means they cover a full working day in many areas of application. Their compact design as a short-tail excavator allows flexible use, even where space is at a premium.

The noise level is also a decisive factor: During operation, the machines are significantly quieter than their diesel-powered counterparts. This is a key advantage for inner-city applications or sensitive zones - such as near schools, hospitals or residential complexes.

Low emission zones set new standards for construction machinery

The need for electric construction machinery is no longer a marginal phenomenon. Many cities already have restrictions in place that prevent the use of conventional machines. In Norway and Sweden, for example, environmental zones have been introduced across the board.

In the Netherlands too - as the speaker notes in the video - access to urban construction sites is increasingly regulated. Anyone working with diesel machines there not only risks penalties, but also losing tenders. The trend is clear: electric machines are the only way to remain competitive in the long term.

Focus on construction work for urban infrastructure and municipal projects

The areas of application for both machines are clearly in the municipal environment: road construction, pipe laying, smaller infrastructure measures. Wherever space is at a premium and emissions need to be avoided, the SK20 and SK90 offer a suitable solution. The two machines can also make a real difference on night construction sites or applications with restricted working hours due to noise protection. Kobelco is thus responding to requirements that have long been a reality in the industry - especially for public sector clients.

Manufactured exclusively at the main plant in Japan

Both models are manufactured at the Kobelco plant in Japan. Production in Europe is currently not planned. The machines will be delivered directly to the European market. Kobelco thus continues to rely on centralized production and quality assurance at its headquarters. The production approach aims to maintain a consistent vertical range of manufacture and enables the company to test new technologies internally before they are transferred to series production. For customers in Europe, this means access to sophisticated technology without compromising on workmanship.