AN excavator maker is digging foundations for further growth after seeing two new models roll off its production line.

Komatsu UK says it has launched an “incredible” hybrid and a sister machine using advanced controls at its plant in Birtley, near Chesterle- Street.

The diggers add to the recent unveiling of a “gamechanging” high-reach model at its North-East factory and come after The Northern Echo last year revealed the business had been chosen by Japanese bosses to supply a next generation hybrid.

The company’s 400-strong Birtley workforce is now making the models for Europe and bosses say their arrival will add extra meaning to celebrations of its 30th anniversary in the region next month.

According to the business, its hybrid creation is capable of running on diesel and electric power, with its second excavator using what the company describes as intelligent machine control (IMC), which constantly updates a driver on operations and uses software to cut production time by reducing the need for secondary checks and measurements.

Paul Dickinson, product manager for hydraulic excavators, said that model, known as the HB365-3, will arrive on construction sites as a fourth generation digger with 18 years’ development and nine years’ of production experience behind it.

He said designers have worked on creating a machine capable of cutting fuel use while cutting noise to ease disruption when operating in built-up areas.

He said: “The HB365-3 is without doubt the best hybrid we’ve ever produced.

“Our focus is always on improving and producing something fit to wear the Komatsu name.

“The HB365-3’s noise level has been reduced by 50 per cent, it has lower emissions than much smaller excavators, and it boasts a 20 per cent reduction in fuel consumption and 15 per cent increase in productivity when compared to Komatsu’s equivalent.

“It has been a long process, but we are all very excited to be producing this incredible machine at Birtley.”

Like its sister hybrid model, the company’s second new excavator, known as the PC210LCi-11, was developed in Japan, and Mal McCoy, product manager of IMC hydraulic excavators, said it will make a huge difference on building sites.

He added: “The intelligent machines represent a real step forward for the industry; the technology we are developing is incredible.

“A big benefit of IMC is how much of a difference it will make. It is safer, more efficient, and allows less experienced operators to achieve consistent levels of improved accuracy.”

The diggers come after the Echo reported Komatsu had launched a high-reach machine at Birtley, which bosses say will reduce the need for multiple machines on demolition projects since it can operate at various heights.

Komatsu’s North-East plant has great experience of making thousands of diggers, ranging from 20-tonnes to 80-tonnes, and officials previously revealed plans to take on 40 staff to maintain its momentum.