Yanmar launches electrification unit for compact off-highway segment (IMAGE SOURCE: Yanmar)

Yanmar is to launch a new dedicated electrification unit focused on the compact off-highway segment

This new unit, which will commence operations in April 2025, will focus on delivering a diverse portfolio of e-powertrain solutions, including batteries and eDrives.

The ultimate goal is to help drive zero-emission solutions for compact off-highway machinery, according to Tetsuya Yamamoto, chief operating officer, Yanmar Holdings.

“This initiative is a major milestone in Yanmar’s commitment to realising our brand statement: A Sustainable Future,” he said.

“The development of e-powertrains is crucial for adapting the expertise we have built with diesel engines to a broader range of applications beyond just construction and agricultural machinery, and it represents an important step towards achieving carbon neutrality.”

As a component manufacturer, supplier and integrator, the new unit will work closely with Yanmar customers to electrify applications such as excavators, wheel loaders and other industrial machinery.

The new electrification unit will concentrate on three primary product areas: Yanmar-branded industrial machinery; machinery for OEMs; and components and e-powertrains for industrial machinery.

“As we face the challenges of climate change and strive for a sustainable society, it is essential to accelerate the development and adoption of electric powertrains that not only enhance product performance but also contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future,” said Yamamoto.

In recent years, Yanmar has invested in research and development to establish itself as a leader in zero-emission technologies in key construction equipment niches.

This includes strategic acquisitions, such as the 2022 takeover of Eleo Technologies, which has strengthened the group’s battery capabilities.

To spearhead the latest initiative, Yanmar has appointed Marko Dekena, who boasts a long career in electric and alternative energy powertrains within the automobile industry, to lead the new electrification group.

He said the new electrification division will not only support the ongoing transformation of the compact off-highway segment but also pave the way for a more sustainable future generally.

“By leveraging Yanmar’s deep understanding of our customers’ needs, we are dedicated to delivering technologies that will accelerate the transition toward zero emissions,” said Dekena.

In addition to electrification, Yanmar is also actively exploring hydrogen and alternative non-carbon fuels and resource recycling solutions to drive further advancements in environmental responsibility and carbon reduction.

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With its robust capabilities in the 30 MT category, the MH3032 is set to become a preferred choice in the material handling sector. (Image source: Caterpillar)

In a testament to its ongoing commitment to industrial applications, Caterpillar is expanding its material handler portfolio with the introduction of the Cat Next Generation MH3032 Material Handler

Positioned strategically between the MH3026 and MH3040—both already part of the next-generation platform—the MH3032 is built with performance, durability, and reliability in mind. This 30 MT machine integrates advanced technology to enhance operational efficiency.

Efficiency is key in material handling. The goal is to move and sort materials—whether waste, scrap, or recyclables—as quickly and efficiently as possible while minimizing fuel consumption and optimizing safety and operator comfort.

"That’s the essential principle of our next gen architecture. Keeping control over operating costs, without sacrificing performance, and it’s those parameters that come to the forefront in the MH3032," commented Vincent Migeotte, senior product and sales consultant, Caterpillar.

Versatile material handler

With an impressive near-15m reach, the MH3032 offers both drop-nose and straight-stick configurations for flexibility. Handling scrap is effortless with the standard Cat orange-peel grapple featuring a 1m³ capacity, while an optional 20 kW generator enables magnet attachments for even greater versatility.

The MH3032 is designed for ease of operation, incorporating Cat Payload technology, which allows operators to monitor lifting loads in real-time and track overall tonnage output. Safety is further enhanced with the built-in Cat 2D E-fence, which keeps the arm within a predefined working range, preventing collisions with the elevated cab and improving overall site safety. Additionally, the new Swing Assist feature automatically stops movement at operator-defined points, reducing unnecessary motion.

"Technologies like these not only help reduce the operator fatigue associated with repetitive tasks but also help improve site safety. Optimised movements also mean incremental improvements to time and fuel consumption," stated Migeotte. 

Inside the dedicated Material Handler cab, a built-in monitor displays dual external camera views to enhance visibility and hazard awareness.

Despite being a new model, the MH3032 benefits from proven components used across the MH3000 Next Generation range, ensuring reliability and easy access to parts. This means operators can expect the same high standards without compromising on versatility.

The machine is powered by the compact and modular Cat C7.1 engine, which meets multiple global emissions standards, including U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, and Japan 2014, with options for Tier 3 and Stage IIIA compliance in specific regions. The engine is designed for extended maintenance intervals, reducing downtime and operational costs.

With its robust capabilities in the 30 MT category, the MH3032 is set to become a preferred choice in the material handling sector.

"By meeting the demands of the 30 MT size class head-on, the MH3032 should prove a popular selection in the all-important material handling sector. It’s a fine machine, totally at ease with its next gen credentials, and we’re delighted to see it launch in 2025," concluded Migeotte.

Also read: Hitech advances Lagos-Calabar highway

Manitowoc appoints Europa Infrastructure as its official Potain dealer in Kenya. (Image source: Manitowoc)

Manitowoc has strengthened its presence in East Africa by appointing Europa Infrastructure as the official Potain dealer in Kenya

This collaboration enhances crane solutions, aftersales support, and service capabilities for regional customers

The appointment is part of Manitowoc’s strategy to expand in East Africa through partnerships with local industry experts. The agreement was formally recognised during an award ceremony at bauma China 2024, underscoring both companies' commitment to supporting the region’s construction and mining sectors.

Nairobi-based Europa Infrastructure specialises in tower cranes, hoists, access platforms, and concrete batching plants. The company operates with a team of 36 employees, including 14 service specialists, ensuring top-tier support for customers across the region.

To launch the partnership, Europa Infrastructure acquired a pre-owned Potain MC 120 tower crane for delivery to a local client.

Amit Raikundalia, managing director of Europa Infrastructure, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, “Potain offers superior products and unmatched aftersales support, which sets it apart in the market. Our appointment as the dealer is a demonstration of our company’s ability to deliver world-class solutions to customers. This partnership also provides us with a strong global brand to further solidify our presence in the market.”

Also read: Used equipment market thrives

The rise of Africa’s used equipment market is boosting construction. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The growth of Africa’s used equipment market is driving construction activity across the continent, providing affordable and sustainable solutions

Africa knows all about good value, keeping those old Toyotas running for decades despite their rough treatment they receive on the roads. In the construction industry, the longevity and durability of capital machinery is just as important, with the used equipment market offering a second life for pre-loved trucks, cranes, loaders and other items. Not only does it offer good value, providing an affordable alternative to new equipment, but refurbishing and reselling old machinery also ticks the sustainability box; something not to be underestimated as construction firms seek to mitigate their climate footprint. While sales of new machinery dominate the headlines and thrive alongside the used equipment market, there is good reason to suggest that this is an area ripe for growth, given current supply-chain difficulties globally and the escalating cost of materials.

Major players such as Hitachi Construction Machinery routinely bring new products to the Africanmarket at the same time as offering a wide variety of used equipment. Its current worldwide stock includes excavators, wheel loaders, bulldozers, dump trucks and other machines. These are ever popular as they are used on almost every construction site.

Local dealers typically play a pivotal role in the used machinery market, offering a variety of equipment from international brands and ensuring that machinery is refurbished to meet local standards. Other global brands, such as Hyundai, Komatsu, Volvo, and Caterpillar, can also be purchased in the used equipment space and can be seen working on projects across the region. The export market is thriving too, with used equipment dealers in Africa supplying customers across regional borders.

The export market is thriving too, with used equipment dealers in Africa supplying customers across regional borders. Rentals have likewise become popular, with portals such as My Crane offering a global marketplace for crane rentals. Where budgets are tight, renting costly capital items can make all kinds of construction, transport and mining projects more viable.

For the full story, check out the latest issue of African Review Business and Technology here.