Hitachi has launched its next-generation wheel loaders at the ConExpo-Con/Agg 2023 event. The company has introduced three models in the Dash-7 lineup, including ZW180-7, ZW180PL-7, and ZW220-7, that have been redesigned from scratch for the North American market. The new wheel loaders feature technology upgrades for productivity, operator comfort, and safety. The loaders offer new cabs, speed control, a payload weighing system, and the ConSite telematics technology suite. The ZW180-7 and ZW180PL-7 models have a 3.5 cubic-yard bucket capacity and an operating weight of 33,047 pounds, while the ZW220-7 model comes with a 4-cubic-yard bucket capacity and a 41,035-pound operating weight. The ZW220-7 model also includes a 210-horsepower Cummins engine and a five-speed transmission with limited-slip differentials to ensure better traction in demanding applications.

The loaders feature a payload weighing system, which allows operators to check the weight of the load in the bucket from the cab monitor and log the material loaded. The system comes with four modes, including tip-off to truck, tip-off to pile, auto-add, and manual-add. The system also issues a warning when the bucket is overloaded to improve safety. The approach speed control adjusts the travel speed during loading, reducing operator fatigue and fuel consumption. The auto power-up function identifies slopes and adds power to prevent engine speed from dropping when traveling uphill.

Hitachi has improved operator comfort by offering larger and quieter cabs with an 8-inch anti-glare LCD monitor with Bluetooth radio, seat-mounted armrest with ergonomic electric-hydraulic controls, ergonomically located switches, and an adjustable seat and mirrors. The position and design of the cab pillars and the layout of the monitor and switch panel have also been adjusted for better visibility from the cab. The Aerial Angle peripheral vision camera system, which uses three cameras mounted on the rear, provides a wide 270-degree birds-eye view of the loaders surroundings on the monitor. The ZW-7 models also feature an optional rear obstacle-detection system with automatic speed reduction.

The loaders offer serviceability enhancements with critical components now better protected from dust and debris. An inner element of the engine air filter prevents dust from entering the engine while cleaning the outer element. The air conditioner is also protected with a sealed internal filter to prevent dust ingress. An intelligent automatic reversing hydraulically driven fan and wide-fin radiators prevent debris from clogging the cooling system. Filters and components are easily accessible for daily maintenance checks.

Hitachi's ConSite suite of telematics tools remotely monitors operational status and alerts owners and operators to upcoming maintenance needs. ConSite Air is a new optional add-on that allows the wheel loader to be diagnosed remotely by the servicing dealer. The system can also push remote software updates.