The launch of the 36 tonne, ZX345 fills a critical gap in Hitachi’s range of reduced-radius excavators in the Dash-7 series, which also includes the 15-tonne, ZX135 and the 26-tonne, ZX225.

The new model is equipped with an Isuzu diesel engine which produces an impressive 197 kW (264 HP). Despite its compact size, the excavator delivers industry-leading cycle times, thanks to its advanced hydraulic systems, with a maximum oil flow of 682 litres per minute, shares Andrew. “The hydraulic pump and performance is a key advantage, as it allows the operator to multi-function the machine, with the ability to run high hydraulic flow requirement attachments, even while the machine is doing hard digging work. This allows operators to complete tasks faster and easier, with the added bonus of fuel efficiencies making it more cost effective too.”

Power and output isn’t compromised by the machine’s compact size, with the ZX345 maintaining the signature performance of larger Hitachi excavators, with operator comfort and safety also on the same level, says Andrew. “The ZX345 has an incredibly spacious, full-sized cab identical to the larger Hitachi models, with a length of 1.7 metres, plenty of legroom, and all the modern features operators expect. It is equipped with an LED lighting package, a 270-degree bird’s-eye view camera, and a wide-view wiper, which all provide excellent visibility, even in low light or adverse weather conditions.”

The cab’s monitor also includes settings for up to 16 different attachments, allowing operators to switch seamlessly between tasks. “From buckets to rock breakers, grapples to pulverisers, everything is pre-set in the monitor,” Andrew notes. “This level of customisation makes the machine incredibly versatile for a wide range of applications.”

The first Hitachi ZX345 introduced to the New Zealand market by CablePrice was snapped up by Auckland civil construction firm, March Cato, who have put it to work on roading projects, where it is handling complex tasks like rock breaking and digging around existing services, says the firm’s Operations Manager, Nicholas Gully. “We’ve always been interested in zero-swing machines for those really tight environments, particularly on the roading reserve, where we have to try to keep road lanes open, while often protecting peoples’ property on the other side. The extra hydraulic power when rock breaking has been another key benefit of the new Hitachi for us, as well as the length of the dipper arm on the boom when we’re installing sheet piles. We’re very happy with it, and what it’s doing for us.”