LiuGong E-Series Excavators Well Received in EU Market

At the end of 2014, LiuGong’s new E-Series excavators achieved more than 100 unit sales in less than 8 months, after the official launch into the European market in May, 2014. The LiuGong E-Series excavators - including the 922E, 925E and 930E models – are fully compliant with Stage 3B of the European emissions regulations and have been well received by European customers so far.

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Each new E-Series excavator comes out of the factory with impressive performance specifications. The smaller 922E has an operating weight of 22,000kg and a maximum digging depth of 6595mm; the 925E has an operating weight of 25,500kg and a maximum digging depth of 6925mm; and the 930E has an operating weight of 31,300kg and a maximum digging depth of 7300mm.

Each E-Series model is equipped with a Cummins 6.7 liter engine in compliance with EU Stage 3B regulations, with net power of: 117kw@2000rpm for the 922E; 129kw@2000rpm for the 925E; and 147kw@1900rpm for the 930E. The new generation of LiuGong E-Series excavators not only retains the reliability, serviceability and safety of former generations, but run with higher efficiency and lower fuel consumption.

“We only use proven components from world-class companies. Through market research and LiuGong’s LDP process, our products’ controllability, reliability and serviceability are fully optimised,” said David Beatenbough, Vice President in charge of R&D at LiuGong. “LiuGong has more than 1000 engineers all over the world, dedicated to providing our customers with a full line of best-in-class machines that feature a safe and comfortable operating experience, easy maintenance and high productivity – even in extreme work conditions or when required to perform over long periods of time.”

In the new E-Series, the engine features Cummins-patented VGTTM Turbocharger technology, which continuously adjusts the vehicle’s airflow boost to precisely match engine rpm and load demands to achieve a higher working efficiency. The Intelligent Power Control (IPC) system and a highly sensitive hydraulic system work together to reduce fuel consumption while increasing productivity. Six working modes optimise the machine’s working performance.

These machines are ergonomic in design from end to end. The newly designed cab features expansive legroom, a new multi-function LCD monitor, an automatic air conditioner, increased visibility and large storage space. Cabs are equipped with a Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS) for maximum operator protection. In addition, the engine itself is extremely easy to maintain thanks to the ease of access when the engine cover is lifted up and the access doors on both sides of the machines opened up. All these features combine to provide a safer, more comfortable working environment.

Soon after the products first landed in Europe, Hansan Construction, a LiuGong dealer in Netherlands, took a test drive of 925E for the publication Bouwmachine. They found the performance remarkably satisfactory. Bouwmachine published a thorough article entitled, ‘Just Like a German Product’. The same comment was echoed by Nick Drew, editor of Earthmovers Magazine in UK, whose team tested 922E and were deeply impressed: “If I didn’t know any different I would have sworn I was operating a refined Japanese excavator.”

These accolades result from the quality of the LiuGong products, which can be reliably operated and maintained anywhere in the world, even in the most remote locations. Another key to the success of the E-Series is that LiuGong constantly listens to the needs of the end users. As Hans Van der Heijden, Sales Director of Hansan Construction, said: “Our direct contact with LiuGong helps both of us to develop the future generations of machines. It means we can make quick modifications to suit the customer.”

The same thing happened in UK, where a 10 excavator order was made recently. Peter Finegan, Service Director of Construction Plant & Machinery Sales, LiuGong’s UK dealer, said, “The great thing about LiuGong is that they listen to what we and our customers want on the machines and they are improving on them all the time, something many others in the industry should learn from.”

One of the good examples came from a large demolition project beside the River Thames. “We just received delivery of four E-Series excavators with the new engine design, which meets all the environmental legislation in the UK,” added Finegan. “We’ve also got, for the drivers’ benefit, larger cab space, and a more ergonomic cab arrangement. It has a new hydraulic system, which allows the operator to multifunction on the levers without loss in power or productivity.”

The great communication and support system between Europe and LiuGong headquarters means new spare parts reflecting the customers’ needs are readily available. Rotation circuits, side skirt impact protection, boxing rings, ROPS cab guards and bucket ram guards are now available as factory-fit options. “We are hoping to continue with the brand going forward.” Finegan concluded. With this, LiuGong has proven that it can keep its head up when competing with world giants in a mature market.