Takeuchi is launching the TB 370 W, a compact excavator with wheel drive on the market. The operating weight is around 7 tons. The manufacturer is targeting urban construction sites with frequent machine transport.
The engine delivers 37 kW (50 HP). This corresponds to the power class of conventional tracked excavators in this weight category. The difference: The TB 370 W runs on wheels instead of tracked undercarriage. Maximum speed reaches 30 km/h. This allows the machine to be moved between construction sites in the city without a lowbed trailer.
Variable track width is one of the key features. The width can be adjusted between 1.70 and 2.20 meters via hydraulics. On narrow streets, the excavator runs narrow, on soft ground wide for better stability. This saves time on reconfiguration – anyone who switches daily between sewer construction and open areas knows the problem.
Takeuchi equips the TB 370 W with a multi-stage hydraulic system. The digging depth is 3.50 meters, the reach is 5.80 meters. Sufficient for utility line construction and small foundation work. The quick coupler is part of the standard equipment. Those switching between trenching buckets, ditch cleaning buckets, and hydraulic hammers save 3 to 5 minutes per change compared to manual assembly.
The cab provides protection according to ROPS and FOPS standards. The joystick control works with electrohydraulic proportional valves. Precise movements are thus possible even for fine work – such as setting curbs or laying house connections.
For whom is wheel drive worthwhile? Small to medium-sized construction companies with changing locations in urban areas benefit the most. The savings on transport pays off from 3 to 4 location changes per week. This eliminates lowbed trailer costs of around 150 euros per trip. With 200 working days and one change each, this adds up to 30,000 euros annually.
The disadvantage: On muddy or very uneven terrain, the wheel excavator reaches its limits. Those working primarily on soft soils or in rough terrain should stick with tracked excavators. For urban construction sites with paved access roads, the TB 370 W is a practical alternative.
Takeuchi specifies a delivery time of 8 to 12 weeks for the TB 370 W. The price is expected to be 10 to 15 percent higher than comparable tracked excavators with the same operating weight. The additional costs amortize through saved transport costs – with intensive use within 12 to 18 months.
