We aim to introduce the electric version of excavators
Tell us about the PC35MR mini excavator model. What are its main features, and how does it compare to competitors?
Komatsu PC35MR mini excavator is one of our flagship models, and it’s been well-received for its superior quality and fuel efficiency, which is the best model in India in the mini excavator category. It also boasts the largest bucket size in its class and leads in lifting power as well. Komatsu is the last major manufacturer to arrive Indian market in this product segment, but we came with a very strong heritage and commitments by bringing the best machine available for our customers, and now, with the PC35MR, we have a very competitive offering. My expectation is that the demand for mini excavators will continue to grow, and this will contribute significantly to India’s infrastructure development and also in areas like plantation work, especially in rural areas.

How do you see the Indian market for this product and what makes Komatsu unique in Construction Equipment industry? 
When it comes to the mini excavator segment, it’s important to note that all manufacturers are continuously working to improve both quality and performance. India is an upcoming market for this small size excavators which is proliferating and reshaping the construction equipment industry slowly. 
 
What sets us apart in the industry is the added value service offering two years / 6,000 hours, whichever is earlier for the mini excavator models and whereas for the other equipment ranging from 20 ~ 35 tonne, Komatsu India offers strong and long warranty “Machine Care Program” i.e. 5 years / 12,500 hours whichever is earlier. This unmatched and unique in the industry gives our customer a peace of mind, knowing they don’t need to worry about the machine performance for long duration, which is a huge selling point, and no other competitor offers such similar programme in the market. It’s really about the depth of customer support that Komatsu offer all time that indicates their recognition of the value of a brand. Our customers are always supported by a nationwide service network offered by our authorised distributor with strong on-the-ground presence. Our team regularly visits customer job sites and conducts periodical checks on the machines. This day-to-day effort from our team is what enables us to offer an unmatched service support to the customers. 

Are there any plans to produce the mini excavator locally in India?
Currently, the mini excavators are imported from Komatsu Japan. However, we are actively exploring the possibilities of localisation options. Our team is under study about the components that are to be localised and to make the product even more competitive in the Indian market.

Komatsu already have electric models in the 3-tonne and smaller sizes, further we’re conducting field tests for these products in other markets. As for India, we’re not ready to launch electric versions just yet. However, we have showcased our hybrid excavators in the 20-tonne class last exhibition, and we see that these machines are gaining popularity. Hybrid machines are becoming more common in the Indian market, and we also working to expand this segment. Komatsu aim to introduce the electric version once the hybrid machines gain a larger awareness and benefit by the customers. 

What are the key highlights and showcasing in this Bauma event?
In this Bauma ConExpo India exhibition, today, we are highlighting our Smart Construction solutions, a tip of rapid change and innovation in the construction industry. This advanced automation features to harness technology for accurate data, comprehensive reporting and remote capabilities. Even younger, less experienced operator can use this system efficiently to perform complex task more easily. 

Do you provide training for operators on Smart Construction?
Komatsu team recently completed a trial in the job site, and the feedback from our customer has been very positive. We are planning to provide a complete training to the operators about this Smart Construction solutions. Moving forward, we’re continuously working to expand the adoption of these technologies in the market to benefit by the customers largely.