Hitachi large excavator plays a part in ground-breaking Greek development project

A Hitachi ZX890LCH-7 large excavator is working on a ground-breaking urban redevelopment initiative in Athens. The Ellinikon, located on the site of the city’s former international airport, is also currently the largest development project in Europe. It is revitalising the location with 6,200 acres of modern living space, in addition to shopping districts, business centres, entertainment venues, and 600 acres of green areas.

The large Zaxis excavator is being used on the first phase of the project by sub-contractor Aigistos SA. In November 2023, the new machine was assembled on site with support from the Greek Hitachi dealer, Helma SA.

Operator Costardinos Vlassis, who has 29 years of experience, was looking forward to working with the ZX890LCH-7: “I like the power, speed, and efficiency of Hitachi excavators, I trust them. If you take care of a machine, it takes care of you. I’m looking forward to working with this beautiful machine.”

Since then, the ZX890LCH-7 has started work on excavating approximately 1.5 million cubic metres of earth, digging to a depth of 13 metres, to create foundations for the construction of a shopping mall.

In addition, Aigistos and its Hitachi machines will be involved in other areas of the Ellinikon project. Civil engineer Giorgos Choulianas, says: “We are also working on the construction of a casino – which will have a 200m-high tower – and building a road for the educational experience park.” By 2027, it is estimated that the site’s large buildings will be constructed, and the entire project has a completion date of 2035.

A reliable rental fleet

Aigistos has two Hitachi ZX890LCH-7 and one ZX890LCR-7, acquired through the Hitachi Premium Rental scheme. The leading company in the Greek infrastructure industry has also rented four ZX490LCH-7 large excavators, two ZX180W-7 wheeled excavators, and a ZW220-7 wheel loader from Helma SA. All are on a three-year rental contract.

The company specialises in road construction, dams, quarrying, energy, and construction projects. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Athens, it employs 350 people and operates across the country.

Helma Sales Consultant Fanis Karampetiadis says: “We are delighted to support our loyal customer Aigistos on this landmark project for Athens.”