Hyundai launch event for specialist European media

• Hyundai held a European media launch unveiling a wide range of new machines, expanding its Next Generation crawler excavator lineup with models HX230, HX260, and HX260N featuring improved fuel efficiency and advanced safety systems.

• The HX300 30-tonne excavator and the compact HX10A Z mini excavator were introduced, alongside the first European availability of skid steer and compact tracked loaders.

• Hyundai added a two-axle HA45A 4x4 articulated hauler to its range, combining haul truck speed with off-road capabilities.

• The HX520A HRD high-reach demolition excavator was showcased, demonstrating Hyundai's dedication to specialized construction sectors and operator comfort.

Hyundai unveiled a host of new machines, as it welcomed trade media from across the Continent to its European head office in April. Building on the successful launch of its Next Generation crawler excavator range in 2025, Hyundai continues to enter new market sectors in 2026, in response to customer demand.

• HX230 and HX260 excavators expand the Next Generation line-up

• HX300 boosts Hyundai’s 30-tonne offer

• HX10A Z completes A-Series mini excavator update

• Two-axle HA45A 4x4 added to articulated hauler range

• Skid steer loaders and compact tracked loaders arrive in Europe

• HX520A HRD high-reach demolition machine

Welcomed by European CEO Sanho Shin and Sales Director Mauricio Chiarotti, more than 50 specialist editors from across Europe attended an exclusive unveiling of a wide range of machines at the firm’s visitor centre in Tessenderlo, Belgium. Journalists were given access to product specialists and sales management, with the opportunity to get behind the controls of this rapidly growing equipment line.

The event provided the first chance to try the new HX230 Next Generation crawler excavator, that was launched recently at the ConExpo exhibition in Las Vegas. Powered by Hyundai’s own award-winning, twin-turbo DX05 diesel engine, the HX230 features Hyundai’s full electrohydraulic (FEH) controls, that allow operators to fine tune lever control and response to their individual preference.

The 23-tonne machine delivers fuel savings of up to 7% compared to the previous model, with a 30% cut in AdBlue consumption. Service intervals have also been doubled, to 1,000 hours, reducing operating costs and downtime for customers.

The HX230 is joined by the larger HX260 and HX260N models, with operating weights of around 26-tonnes. These machines also benefit from the use of the DX05 engine and the FEH control system. The Next Generation excavators feature Hyundai’s Smart Around View Monitor (SAVM) system, an upgrade on the previous generation AAVM technology. SAVM features six cameras mounted on the upper structure of the machine, with AI-based human detection and the option of Radar Object Detection, to alert the operator to nearby hazards.

Already seen in Europe, the HX300 joined the Next Generation line-up earlier this year and the 30-tonne crawler excavator uses the DX08 six-cylinder engine and Hyundai’s FEH controls. Fuel savings can be as high as 9% when compared to the previous 30-tonne model.

At the opposite end of the weight scale, the new HX10A Z is the latest model to join Hyundai’s A-Series compact excavator range. Powered by a 7.6kW diesel engine, the 1.1-tonne machine has a retractable undercarriage to allow access to the most confined working areas. The high specification mini delivers all of the benefits of the A-Series range, including outstanding operator comfort and control, robust design and build, along with the power and lifting capacity to perform.

Other compact machines available for test included the HS80V and HS120V skid steer loaders and the HT100V compact tracked loader. Proven in the North American market, this is the first time that Hyundai has offered skid steers and CTLs in Europe. All three are powered by Stage V Hyundai diesel engines and they tip the scales at 3.2-tonnes, 3.7-tonnes and 4.4-tonnes respectively. With vertical lift path geometry, the machines feature industry-standard attachment couplers.

While all of Hyundai’s articulated dump trucks (ADT) feature a recently upgraded cabin, with increased space and lower noise levels, the company has added a two-axle model to the line-up. The HA45A 4x4 delivers the speed and fuel efficiency of a rigid haul truck, with the bad weather and climbing capabilities of an ADT. The truck features self-levelling hydro-gas suspension and is equipped with front and rear limited slip differentials to provide maximum traction when required.

Also on static display at the event was an HX520A crawler excavator in HRD demolition specification. Built in cooperation with demolition specialist STC, the 52-tonne machine can be equipped with digging boom, a straight demolition boom or a high-reach rig, delivering a pin height of up to 27m.

Equipped with a hydraulically-adjustable undercarriage, a tilting operator’s cab and a dust suppression system, the HX520A HRD enters one of the most popular high-reach sectors of the market. The machine demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to provide dedicated machinery for customers across all sectors of the construction business.

As well as having the opportunity to get behind the controls of the latest Hyundai equipment, editors were given full access to sales and product specialists from across the company. They also enjoyed an evening of typical Belgian hospitality at Hyundai’s European head office site.