Hyundai introduces Tier 4 Final-compliant excavators to North American market

Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas Inc., a maker of earth moving and material handling equipment based in Norcross, Georgia, has introduced its new 9A series of Tier 4 Final-compliant compact excavators to the United States and Canada. The machines range from 1.7 to 8.2 metric tons, and include the mini R17Z-9A, R25Z-9A, R35Z-9A, R55-9A and R60CR-9A models and the midi R80CR-9A model.

“The new Hyundai 9A series compact excavators are all about bringing big power to small spaces. Each model features an environmentally friendly engine that provides impressive performance and reduced fuel consumption,” says Corey Rogers, marketing manager, Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas. “Our customers in the building, landscaping, road and bridge, site prep and underground markets in particular will appreciate the hefty power, durability and reliability of these compact machines, along with their ability to work productively in confined spaces.”

The Hyundai 9A series models R17Z-9A and R25Z-9A are powered by Kubota engines, and the R35Z-9A, R55-9A, R60CR-9A and R80CR-9A are powered by Yanmar engines. Hyundai says both the Kubota and Yanmar engines provide efficient fuel combustion and reduced noise. The company says the product line gives contractors a choice of models in each of six weight classes: 1.7, 2.5, 3.5, 5.5, 6.0 and 8.2 metric tons.

“Like all Hyundai construction equipment, the Hyundai 9A series compact excavators are designed for maximum performance, precision and versatility, with features and technology that make the operating experience more comfortable, more ergonomic and more user-friendly,” Rogers says.

The cabs deliver reduced noise and increased comfort and visibility, according to the company. A tilting left-side console makes it easier for the operator to enter and exit the cab, and the left and right control levers are located for convenient access. An adjustable suspension seat and plenty of space helps reduce operator stress and fatigue, the company says. The cabs on the Hyundai 9A series machines are all TOPS, ROPS and FOPS certified. Other safety features include optional boom and arm cylinder locks, and an optional overload alarm.

An optional lever pattern change valve, positioned for easy access, on the R25Z-9A and R35Z-9A models allows joystick control to be changed from SAE to ISO pattern, depending on operator preference, Hyundai says. The advanced LCD cluster on the Hyundai R55-9A, R60CR-9A and R80CR-9A allows the operator to select other machine preferences. The same monitor also displays engine revolutions per minute, oil and water temperature and information for all onboard electronic devices. Button selections are provided for auto idle mode, max power mode and travel speed.

“Innovative hydraulic system technologies make the 9A series compact excavators fast, smooth and easy to control,” Rogers says.

To achieve optimum precision on the R55-9A, R60CR-9A and R80CR-9A models, Hyundai redesigned the hydraulic system to provide the operator with super-fine touch and improved controllability. An arm flow summation system provides energy savings, reduced cavitation and increased speed.

The boom swing function on the 9A series compact excavators is designed for efficient work in congested areas, the company says. The boom can be offset left or right. Zero-tail swing on the Hyundai R17Z-9A, R25Z-9A and R35Z-9A allows operators to work near buildings, in single lanes on roadways or in other confined settings. The variable undercarriage on the R17Z-9A allows the most compact machine in the line to work in even the tightest limited-space work environments, according to Hyundai.

“The Hyundai 9A series compact excavators are designed to maximize profitability through improved efficiencies, enhanced service features and longer life components,” notes Rogers.

Enhanced reliability features on the 9A series compact excavators include bushings designed for long-life lube intervals, wear-resistant and noise-reducing polymer shims, and integrated preheating systems which extend service intervals and reduce machine downtime. Serviceability enhancements include wide open engine hoods, centralized grease fittings and easy-change plastic air cleaners. The R60CR-9A and R80CR-9A models feature a tilting cabin for convenient maintenance and service.

In other Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas news, the company has announced its support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. Throughout October, Hyundai is selling custom pink shirts and wristbands through participating Hyundai construction and forklift dealers across the United States and Canada, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to It’s The Journey Inc.

It’s The Journey is a Georgia-based nonprofit organization that raises funds and awareness for regional organizations focused on breast cancer education, screening, early detection, supportive services and continuing care. The pink Hyundai “Digging for a Cure” t-shirts sell for $12 each. The pink Hyundai wristbands sell for $5 each.

“People tend to think of heavy equipment as masculine, but we and our customers all have family and friends who may be at risk for this disease,” says M.S. Kang, president of Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas. “This is why we are proud to ‘go pink’ to support the fight against breast cancer.”

Kang notes that the customers who own and operate Hyundai construction equipment and forklifts tend to be active participants in their local communities, so Hyundai is following suit by supporting It’s the Journey’s flagship event, a 30-mile, two-day walk, originating in Atlanta near Hyundai’s North American headquarters. Specifically, Hyundai is sponsoring a “B’Rest Stop,” where snacks and drinks will be provided to race participants.

Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas Inc. offers a full line of crawler excavators, ranging from compact models to mass excavators, as well as wheeled excavators, wheel loaders, compaction equipment, hydraulic breakers and forklifts.