The recently concluded mega construction equipment event bauma saw a slew of new technologies on show that are going to attract the attention of the customers in future. Meeting the next level emission norms is one of the key in the coming year and many OEMs have come out with some interesting disruptions on this aspect. The concept of methane-powered wheel loader by CASE Construction Equipment reflects the increasing importance of alternative fuels and demonstrates their viability in the construction environment. Promoting the use of electric power over diesel power, Volvo CE showcased its first commercial zero-emissions electric compact excavator and wheel loader. JLG showcased the concept of electrified e-axle that will be a drive towards excellence through electrification. The hybrid engine showcased by Kohler is another innovation in this direction. There are many more such innovations that promote clean power in the construction equipment space. In the Indian market, it may take more time to get traction of these technologies.

Realty and infrastructure projects will continue to drive the demand for cement and concrete in the coming years. Tall buildings and large-scale infrastructure projects will require quality concrete and efficient machines in future to meet the demand emanating from these projects. There will be a renewed focus on powerful concrete machines for concrete batching, mixing, transporting, pumping and placing. Many challenging projects have come up in the recent past in various infrastructure segments, where batching plants, stationary pumps and boom pumps successfully performed. Recently, the Polavaram dam project in Andhra Pradesh entered the Guinness Book of World Records by pouring 32,100 cu m of concrete in 24 hours. As projects get more challenging and timely delivery becomes crucial, customers in India continue shifting towards more powerful and efficient concrete machines. The Cover Story elaborates on the technology trends in concrete equipment.

Construction hoists are used in building projects of height 70 m and above. For a decade, this vertical reach equipment is popular among the high-rise projects in India.

Though the growth is slow currently, the market is likely to pick up in future due to the growing mechanisation in high-rise projects. The Feature explains more on the market trends. The CASH Feature sheds light on the Attachments in Construction Equipment. Attachments play an important role in maximising the utilisation of capital equipment. Use of attachments definitely makes the machines versatile, bringing in economy and optimum utilisation of the machine.

The construction equipment industry is innovating rapidly and the time cycle between introduction of an advanced feature in premium machines and then commoditising their application for all, is shortening. As money becomes dearer, the value of time becomes more valuable too. Technology then begins to play a vital role.