Case announces launch of electric excavator

The 580EV is powered by a 400-volt, 71 kWh lithium-ion battery platform that enables up to eight hours of run time. (Photo: Case Construction Equipment)

Case Construction Equipment has announced the launch of its 580EV, which it calls the industry's first electric backhoe loader. This launch will be followed in the coming months by the 2.5-ton CX25EV mini excavator and the 3.6-ton CL36EV compact wheel loader.

The specially designed 580EV has the same loading and digging specifications and offers the same breakout forces as the 97 hp, all-wheel-drive 580SN diesel model, which Case says represents an increase in performance since the Project Zeus electric excavator concept unveiled at ConExpo 2020. Electrification also offers performance benefits such as instant torque response and peak torque at any rpm.

The 580EV is powered by a 400-volt, 71 kWh lithium-ion battery platform that charges with the same Level 2 J1772 adapter found in electric vehicles. The battery platform is designed to provide up to eight hours of operation on a single charge, depending on the application. An advanced thermal management system with system-specific cooling loops helps better regulate temperatures and maintain performance in hot or cold conditions, according to the company.

The 14-foot backhoe features an Extendahoe to increase reach and features such as ProControl ride control, PowerLift/PowerBoost and electro-hydraulic controls. (Photo: Case Construction Equipment)

“Designing this machine from the start as a purpose-built electric vehicle rather than a retrofit has enabled a number of practical innovations that will positively change the mindset of teams thinking about electric vehicles,” said Brad Stemper, North America product management manager at CASE. “We looked at every aspect of the machine and improved power consumption throughout to deliver exceptional electric vehicle performance that operators will see and feel when digging, loading or moving earth.”

The four-wheel-drive electric excavator uses two independent electric motors for the PowerDrive transmission and hydraulic pumps that power the loader, excavator and steering systems to minimize energy consumption and improve performance during loading operations. Its 14-foot excavator includes an Extendahoe as well as features such as ProControl ride control, PowerLift/PowerBoost and electro-hydraulic controls to improve precision and ease of use on the jobsite, Case explained.

The 3.6 tonne CL36EV electric compact wheel loader (pictured) and the 2.5 tonne CX25EV mini excavator will be launched in the coming months. (Photo: Case Construction Equipment)

Cab features include energy efficient heating and air conditioning, 8″ touchscreen display, customizable work mode/sensitivity settings, push button start and operator security codes. Multi-color strobe lights on four corners offer customizable colors, strobe patterns and a “stay on” feature for low light conditions when strobe lights are not needed.

With the addition of the 580EV, CX25EV and the CL36EV electric mini excavator as well as the electric compact wheel loader, Case's electric vehicle product range includes a total of five machines.

“These new machines set new standards in electrification and sustainable construction and are a testament to our customer-focused approach to expanding our product portfolio,” said Terry Dolan, vice president of North America for Case Construction Equipment. “Complementing our diesel offerings, electrification provides practical solutions to unique job site needs and helps urban contractors, utility crews, municipal workers and other construction companies further improve their productivity, efficiency and bottom line.”