Komatsu starts introducing its biofuel compatible mining models to India including HD785-7 trucks

Komatsu India Private Limited (KIPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Komatsu Ltd, Japan, along with its distribution partner Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) says it has secured orders for large-sized mining equipment from a major mining customer in India. It stated: “Komatsu’s high-quality products and L&T’s trusted product-support capabilities have paved the way forward in partnering with the customer for this large deal.”

The order comprises more than 80 units of Komatsu mining equipment, including dump trucks, hydraulic excavators, dozers, motor graders, wheel loaders and wheel dozers. The scope of the order includes supply of equipment along with a Full Maintenance Contract (FMC) for up to ten years of equipment operation. The equipment was scheduled for deployment at the customers jobsite starting from the month of May 2022.

Yasunori Fujii, Managing Director of KIPL highlighted Komatsu’s commitment towards the climate and societal cause, wherein Komatsu is continuously incorporating new technologies in the Indian market which further enhances the efficiency of workplaces and minimises environmental impact. In line with this ethos, Komatsu has now introduced mining equipment compatible with biofuel (biodiesel fuel blends up to B20 confirming to ASTM D7467). The first set of HD785-7 dump trucks compatible with biofuel was recently handed over to the customer at a ceremony held at KIPL’s factory at Oragadam in Tamil Nadu.

Komatsu said that this is the start of a new era in the Indian mining equipment industry which can lead to a substantial reduction in carbon footprint. “Although Komatsu is ready with biofuel compatible mining equipment, it is also essential that a consistent supply of the desired quality of the fuel is available at remote mining jobsites. The Government’s thrust on accelerating the use of alternate fuel is expected to complement such new initiatives of Komatsu.”

Arvind K. Garg, Executive Vice President & Head, L&T Construction & Mining Machinery expressed his gratitude to the customer for trusting L&T and engaging in long term product support contracts for the fleet of Komatsu mining equipment. “L&T is associated with Komatsu for more than two decades. Being partners, we share a common ideology of creating value for our esteemed customers. The introduction of biofuel compatible mining equipment is an important step in this direction. The Indian mining industry is growing at a healthy pace, thanks to the Government’s thrust on infrastructure. Therefore, as a responsible stakeholder, it is essential to continue introducing such latest and environment-friendly technologies in India. We, together with Komatsu and our esteemed customers are committed to serving the society through such innovative offerings.”