The new WA700-8 wheeled loader is set to be one of the highlights of Komatsu’s display at the Bauma trade fair in Munich in April.

Powered by an EU Stage V compliant 578kW Komatsu engine, the WA700-8 delivers the power needed to deliver optimal efficiency in demanding quarry and mining applications, the Japanese manufacturer says.

The operating weight is 97,100 kg and bucket capacity is 8.7-10.3 cubic metres.

A combination of increased engine power and torque mated to a new cooling system and reduced hydraulic losses results in improved cycle times and fuel efficiency.

To enhance productivity and operator comfort during V-shape loading, the WA700-8 has a throttle lock/rpm set function.

Jo Monsieur, deputy general manager of product marketing at Komatsu Europe, says: “I'm very excited to introduce our WA700-8 in Europe, which offers a perfect match with our 60-tonne rigid dump truck. Without any doubt, it will excite any operator with its performance, large cabin and wealth of safety features.”

Denis McGrath, sales director with Komatsu’s Irish distributor, McHale Plant Sales, is also excited about the new machine. “All that Komatsu knows about the development of giant wheel loader development has been incorporated in the new WA700-8,” he says.

“Though the market in Ireland for such a heavy-duty machine is somewhat ‘select’ compared to mainstream loaders, there can be no doubt that its arrival will be seen by quarry owners, aggregates producers, and the like as a true game changer,” he adds.

The standard safety package includes emergency push buttons, certified anchorage and tie-down points, along with battery, starter, and hydraulic lockouts. Also standard are full LED lamps for night operations.

Inside the cabin the new advanced joystick steering and electronic pilot control levers are designed to offer precision and ease of operation. For entertainment, a Bluetooth radio allows operators to connect their mobile phones to the loader's stereo system.

 To simplify repetitive tasks and help operators to optimise load cycles, automation features include an automatic digging system, semi-automatic approach and semi-auto dump systems.