HITACHI LAUNCHES COMPACT LOADER LINE WITH NEW ZW80

June 5, 2019

Newnan, GA – To introduce its new line-up of compact wheel loaders, Hitachi has incorporated some of the latest features from its full-sized machines.

Landscapers and rental fleets welcomed last year’s initial offering of re-flagged compact machines from Hitachi Construction Machinery Loaders America Inc., (HCMA) but now Hitachi engineering has updated these compact models to take their place in the complete wheel loader fleet. The ZW80 leads off the line-up with popular features such a robust center-pin area, clean SCR emissions technology, and “Eco Mode” fuel savings.

Topped with a clean, well-ventilated comfort cab, the ZW80 is built to ensure that both the machine and the operator can deliver maximum production year-round.

Reaching for the top

Weighing in at 12,220 lbs., the ZW80 starts strong with a solid 63 HP Kubota engine and hydrostatic drive with manually locking differential as standard. Equipped to carry a heaped-bucket capacity of 1.2 yards, it will lift loads up 3,587 lbs. with enough reach to fill full-size dump bodies. With 8,280 lbs. breakout force, it has the power to scoop full loads efficiently while, with its top speed of 21.1 mph (34 km/h), it has the speed to move these loads quickly. In fact, a quick comparison shows the ZW80 to be the fastest loader in its class.

Simple and durable

Hitachi’s stated goal of delivering machines that are simple but durable is evident in the strong support structures and the large pins and bearings provided in the ZW80’s center pin area. The clean, accessible design makes everyday clean-up and maintenance easier for owners who put their small loaders to work in farm and snow removal applications. The ZW80’s zerk fittings also eliminate the need to crawl under the machine to service the oscillation area. HN vacuums impregnated with special high-viscosity oil provide a built-in reserve of lubricant to keep the loader running through hot days and extended hours. The side-by-side arrangement of the aluminum radiator and aluminum oil cooler provide easy access for regular maintenance and cleaning.

The emissions controls on the ZW80 are also simple, utilizing Hitachi’s new DOC and SCR systems to eliminate costly DCF and its regen cycles from its service schedule.

Designed with rugged applications in mind, the ZW80 comes standard with a hook-type coupler. A universal attachment coupler is also offered for utility duty with a wide range of attachments.  

Built for the operator

With the ZW80, productive operators don’t have to give up comfort and control just because they are running a smaller machine. The standard model comes with a fully enclosed, well-sealed cab. (A basic ROPS/FOPS canopy is also available.) The walk-through design provides easy access from the right or left, with safety handrails and large steps mounted on both sides. A sound-insulated design, low-noise engine, and rubber-mounted enclosure frame and hydraulics add up to a safe, quiet work environment. Hitachi equipment is known for excellent visibility, and the ZW80 is no exception with its floor-to-ceiling tinted glass front window. Pillarless cab design ensures an unobstructed view to the rear. Sliding side windows and lock-back doors allow flow-through air ventilation, while A/C is offered as an option.

The loader’s adjustable suspension seat cushions against shocks and vibration. The extra wide 3” seatbelt, also standard, adjusts to an extra comfortable fit. All Hitachi loaders feature an oscillating axle to handle irregular terrain, maintaining a smooth ride and stable load-carrying. A wrap-around counterweight creates a low center of gravity, increasing stability while loading or traveling.

The ZW80’s simple controls include a full suite of audible and visual service alerts. The diff lock switch is conveniently located with the hydraulics joystick for easy access to a boost of power on demand.  The inching pedal allows the machine to decelerate while the engine remains at higher RPMs, and also provides positive braking at the bottom of the pedal stroke. Auto-mode is also onboard, including an automated on-off that responds to the machine’s travel speed and prevents unnecessary pitching. When the loader is doing lighter work, the operator can simply switch to Hitachi’s new “Eco Mode.” The ZW80 is the smallest machine in Hitachi’s wheel loader line to include Eco Mode, which reduces RPMs and cuts fuel consumption by about 10% when its full power is not required.