New 13 ton “dual mode” electric excavator from Hitachi can operate 24/7

Hitachi Construction Machinery NV has introduced a new, 13-ton battery electric excavator called the ZX135-7EB, expanding its lineup of quiet, zero-emissions construction equipment. This new offering is designed to meet the demands of urban and residential projects with strict emissions and noise regulations. The company promises that the performance of this electric excavator will match or even exceed that of its diesel counterpart, the ZX135-7, while also being more environmentally friendly.

One of the standout features of the ZX135-7EB is its flexibility. If a job site has access to reliable grid power and a three-phase connection, the excavator can simply be plugged in to keep working even after its initial 198 kWh battery charge is used up. This allows crews to work around the clock without worrying about emissions or noise pollution.

The launch of the ZX135-7EB comes shortly before the CONEXPO 2026 trade show in Las Vegas, where Hitachi Construction Machinery will showcase its latest offerings. This announcement follows the news that Itochu Corp, a Japanese company, will be increasing its stake in Hitachi Construction Machinery from 20.4% to 33.4%. This move is aimed at accelerating the company’s expansion in key markets, including North America.

“In HCM’s key markets, notably North America, Itochu will accelerate collaboration by jointly promoting sales, rental, and finance businesses and by pursuing M&A opportunities and new business areas,” reads the official release. “Itochu will also leverage the Itochu Group’s expertise in areas such as business management, governance, logistics, finance, and ESG to help strengthen HCM’s management foundations and increase its global competitiveness.”

The transaction is expected to receive regulatory approval by April 2026, with more details and product announcements expected at CONEXPO. This partnership is anticipated to bring about further growth and innovation in Hitachi Construction Machinery’s operations.

Electric construction equipment, like the Hitachi ZX135-7EB, demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and efficiency in the construction industry. By utilizing battery power and grid assets, companies can achieve clean and quiet operation on job sites, leading to increased productivity and cost savings. As the industry continues to embrace electric solutions, more work can be done in various locations while minimizing environmental impact.

Hitachi’s new electric excavator represents an important step towards a more sustainable future for construction projects. By combining performance, flexibility, and environmental friendliness, this innovative machine has the potential to revolutionize construction practices and set a new standard for equipment in the industry.