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Mini Excavators. Smarter Efficiency.
Auto idle
Savings
The Challenge
The hidden cost of idle time
On a construction site, every operating hour counts. While digging performance, productivity and fuel economy are key considerations when choosing a mini excavator, the cost of running a machine between tasks is often overlooked.
Throughout a typical working day, excavators experience frequent periods of inactivity. Whether waiting for a dumper to return, coordinating with other site operatives or preparing for the next digging cycle, engines can continue running at higher speeds than necessary, consuming fuel without contributing to productivity.
Individually, these interruptions may seem insignificant. However, across hundreds of operating hours, unnecessary fuel consumption can add up, particularly for contractors and plant hire businesses managing larger fleets.
Reducing this wasted fuel without compromising machine performance presents an opportunity to improve operating efficiency and lower running costs.
Solution
Auto idle on a mini excavator
Advanced engine management systems are often associated with larger construction machinery, where technologies designed to optimise fuel consumption have become an increasingly important part of machine development.
However, Kubota is bringing the same approach to the smaller end of the excavator market.
The latest U17-5 and U18-5 mini excavators feature auto idle technology, introducing automatic engine speed reduction to machines in the 1.5 to 2 tonne class.
When the operating levers remain in neutral for more than four seconds, the system automatically reduces engine RPM to idle. As soon as the operator resumes work, engine speed returns to its previously selected setting, allowing normal operation to continue without manual throttle adjustment.
The technology helps reduce unnecessary fuel consumption between digging cycles while maintaining the engine response required for productive operation.
For contractors working with smaller excavators, it demonstrates that intelligent engine management needn't be reserved for larger machines.
Benefits
What are the benefits?
Improved Fuel Economy - Reduces unnecessary fuel consumption during periods of inactivity.
Lower Operating Costs - Helps reduce fuel expenditure over the machine's working life.
Reduced Noise Levels - Automatically lowers engine RPM for quieter operation between tasks.
Seamless Operation - Restores engine speed automatically when work resumes, without manual throttle adjustment.
UN Sustainable
Development Goals
The Great Plains Implement Command System contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals of achieving zero hunger, promoting industry, ensuring sustainable development and protecting life on land.
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