The largest fleet of Hitachi mining equipment in Europe has proved to be one of the vital ingredients in the success of Terrafame’s nickel-cobalt-zinc mine in Sotkamo, Finland. The site at Kuusilampi is home to Europe’s most significant nickel and cobalt ore reserves, as well as three Hitachi ultra-large excavators and 16 rigid dump trucks. The reliable orange machines are being used to dig, load and haul the total designed mining volume of 52 million tonnes per year.

In recent years, Terrafame has gained a strong reputation for producing high-purity nickel and cobalt sulphates that are used as battery chemicals for electric vehicles. To continue to meet increasing demand for its raw materials from European automakers and battery manufacturers, the company has invested in expanding production capacity while enhancing efficiency. In addition, its primary focus for growth is new products, with battery grade nickel, cobalt and copper critical and strategic raw materials for the EU’s green transition.

Long-term support

To achieve its future targets and ambitions, Terrafame has also been strengthening its relationships with Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) and its authorised dealer in Finland, Rotator since 2015. The first Hitachi rigid dump trucks and ultra-large excavators were delivered to the mine’s previous operator in 2008, and Rotator’s on-site parts and technical support team have been responsible for maintenance and service ever since.

Today the Terrafame fleet includes two EX3600-7 excavators (delivered in 2022 and 2023, now with 20,000 and 14,000 hours respectively) and one EX3600-6 (2018, over 40,000 hours). The three machines are used for loading the blasted materials into the 16 Hitachi dump trucks – eight EH3500AC-3s (2022-2024, 11,000-19,000 hours) and eight EH3500ACIIs (2009-2017, 52,000-82,000) – in four to five passes.

High utilisation and availability

The biggest challenge facing the Kuusilampi open-pit mine is the freezing cold and wet weather conditions, as Antti Lakkala, Terrafame’s Head of Production – Mining, explains: “With rain, winter and hard frost, our working conditions change all year round. It challenges our road maintenance and therefore the use of dump truck tyres, and usability of the dump trucks. Cold winters also challenge us with the use of the excavators.

“Rotator and Hitachi have met our challenges, and high utilisation and availability are being achieved. We have aimed for better efficiency with the dump trucks and large excavators, and the goal is to increase loading capacity and utilisation. We have dump trucks and loading excavators of various ages, but our operators generally prefer newer equipment – they like the tools they operate with.”

Safe and comfortable

One of Terrafame’s most experienced operators is Kosti Jokelainen, who has driven both the EH3500AC3 and EH3500ACII since 2015: “I think the new cab is more spacious and larger than the previous truck. It feels more comfortable with being less cramped, and safer with the stronger pillars. The gear lever and the dump lever are better, much more convenient, and easy to use. The most useful feature is the retarder button – it’s incredibly important that you can slow it down with a button.”

Similarly, Aki Anttonen has been a Terrafame operator for ten years: “I operate an excavator the size of an apartment block, the best that money can buy! The cab is very comfortable in the new machines, even after 12 hours of operation. The most important feature I like about my working environment is that it is quiet and no dust can get in there. The cameras are also important when visibility to the sides and rear is non-existent in places. Filling the bucket is easy and there are some differences from the old machine, such as the hydraulics, and the digging power is significantly higher.”

Trust through cooperation

In 2025, the Kolmisoppi deposit – part of Terrafame’s wider resource base – was granted strategic project status under the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) and there are plans to open this deposit by 2028. Together with the successful cooperation with Rotator, and the proven high utilisation, reliability and uptime of the Hitachi fleet, the future looks bright for the integrated mine and battery chemicals plant.

“Over the years we have gained extensive experience with the same equipment, our operating conditions and our challenges,” says Antti. “It has brought know-how on both sides, as well as trust through cooperation. It is vital that the teams work closely together, and I can see that this will be even better in the future. In this way, we are developing in the right direction.”

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Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) has appointed SMG Macchine d.o.o. to be its new authorised dealer in Croatia as of 1 July 2026. The Sesvete-based company has ten years of machine sales and after-sales service experience in the southeast European country, and has represented the reliable orange brand as a sub-dealer – on behalf of one of HCME’s Italian dealers, SCAI – since 2016.

In line with this announcement, SMG Macchine will provide customers with the complete line-up of Hitachi construction machinery as well as the Hitachi Premium Rental offering. Ideally located on the outskirts of the capital city Zagreb, it serves a variety of industry solutions, including road and general construction, forestry, infrastructure, and agriculture. Its customer base also varies, from small family-run farms to the largest construction companies in Croatia.

“The most important thing for our customers is being supplied with a high-quality machine for the right price, and which is supported with a high level of service,” says Zeljko Vranjković, CEO of SMG Macchine. While its experienced sales and service teams are based in Zagreb, in the near future the company plans to open a new branch to serve the Adriatic coast in Croatia’s second largest city, Split.

“We look forward to working with Hitachi, a brand that stands for quality, reliability and durability,” adds Josip Bakula, Procurement Manager. “The development of our company is based on continuous improvement, with education and training provided by leading equipment manufacturers, and respect for the needs of our customers. By establishing strong professional relationships with our partners, we want to build trust for long-term cooperation and our mutual benefit.”

HCME CEO and President Francesco Quaranta says, “We are proud to work more closely with SMG Macchine to continue providing customers in Croatia with our reliable orange equipment and solutions. It is an exciting time for this market, and we are confident that SMG Macchine will support us with the brand’s transition to LANDCROS next year.”

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Operators take centre stage in the LANDCROS European Operator Challenge

The most advanced operator skills and reliable orange machines will be in the spotlight at the inaugural LANDCROS European Operator Challenge. Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) is hosting the grand final of the competition on 10-11 September, following ten qualifying rounds hosted by leading European dealers between May and June.

The contest combines real-life operating conditions with fun, engaging elements that will demonstrate the true extent of operators’ capabilities. Tasks are inspired by regular job-site activities, and include skill-based exercises to test control, precision and overall handling of the machine.

Real skills, real machines, real competition

Participants can choose to compete activities on the ZX95USB-7 compact or the ZX210-7 medium excavators, and the ZW250/ZW310-7 wheel loaders. Between 12-16 operators are expected to attend each of the national events.

The first will be held by Spanish dealer HJM on 30 May, followed by HCM UK on 6 June and Swiss dealer Probst Maveg on 8-9 June. HCM Netherlands, HCM France, Luyckx in Belgium and SCAI in Italy will host their events later that month, and Moviter in Portugal, and SIA Alwark in Latvia and Lithuania complete the line-up.

The winners of the national heats will compete for the title of LANDCROS European Operator Champion at the final at HCME headquarters in Amsterdam. The overall winner will receive an exclusive trip for two to Japan, and the top three contestants will be invited to showcase their skills as brand ambassadors at the LANDCROS outdoor demonstration area at Intermat Paris 2027.

The Reliable Orange

“The LANDCROS European Operator Challenge is an opportunity to celebrate the expertise of our talented operator community and the performance of some of our most popular reliable orange machines,” says HCME Director Marketing & Brand Communication Laura Hendriks

“With the support of our dealers, we are proud to launch the first LANDCROS event ahead of the Hitachi brand’s transition next April. We look forward to connecting with our customers and operators during this fun and engaging process, and crowning our champion for 2026. Let the battle begin!”

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The first electric Hitachi EX2600-7E ultra-large excavator in Europe has been delivered in March 2026 by authorised Hitachi dealer West Balkans Machinery (WBM) to Rudnik uglja Pljevlja. The new 250-tonne machine will be used to extract coal at the Pljevlja mine in northern Montenegro, which is integral to the country’s energy sector.

Rudnik uglja Pljevlja already has three Hitachi EX ultra-large excavators working in its fleet at the mine – an EX2600-6 delivered in 2019, and an EX1200-6 and an EX1200-7, which arrived on site in 2019 and 2022 respectively. While the mine has historically relied on diesel-powered hydraulic excavators and older dragline systems, it is now moving towards more efficient and technologically advanced solutions.

The company chose to invest in its first electric-drive Hitachi excavator as part of its modernisation and sustainability efforts. Using this equipment will lead to lower long-term operating costs due to simplified maintenance compared to conventional diesel machines. The 860kW electric motor also provides constant torque, enhancing operational efficiency.

The EX2600-7E will significantly reduce the mine’s carbon footprint by reducing local exhaust emissions. This was a crucial factor in the purchase decision as Montenegro is currently aligning with EU environmental standards. Another factor was the local energy supply from the neighbouring Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant. As the mine can utilise locally produced electricity, this reduces its dependence on imported diesel fuel.

Trust in reliable partners and machines

As the first model of its kind to be supplied to the region, the EX2600-7E was assembled on site with the support of service technicians from Hitachi Construction Machinery in Japan, as well as representatives from WBM. The local dealer is a trusted supplier and partner of Rudnik uglja Pljevlja and has established a strong working relationship. WBM will continue to support this landmark machine with parts and service during the two-year warranty period (or 8,000 operating hours). “We have been working together over 20 years, and we enjoy close cooperation,” says Tomislav Marijancic, WBM Managing Director.

The mine recently extended its agreement to produce at least 1.65 million tonnes of dark lignite annually, although actual production often fluctuates between 1.5 million and 2.2 million tonnes. Approximately 85-95% of the coal produced goes directly to the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant, which provides over 40% of Montenegro’s total electricity. A smaller amount is sold for domestic heating and to businesses in the Pljevlja region. However, exports are a growing part of Rudnik uglja Pljevlja’s business strategy and the mine has contracts with Serbia’s government-owned electric utility power company, Elektroprivreda Srbije.

“We are proud to supply our reliable orange ultra-large excavators, including the country’s first EX-7 electric machine, to play an important part in Montenegro’s energy sector,” says Dr Hubertus Muenster, HCME VP Sales. “We appreciate the trust that Rudnik uglja Pljevlja has placed in our electric products and the excellent support of our local dealer.”

WBM celebrates its tenth anniversary as an authorised Hitachi Construction Machinery dealer this year. “The successful delivery and assembly of our first electric ultra-large excavator in south-east Europe is testament to the strength of our partnership,” adds Hubertus.

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Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) welcomed members of its European dealer network to a milestone gathering and award ceremony at its Amsterdam headquarters on 11-13 March. The prestigious occasion was an opportunity to celebrate their past achievements and look forward to the brand’s evolution to LANDCROS next year.

Following informative sessions on strategy, collaboration, business growth and shared priorities, the dealers enjoyed hands-on machine demonstrations in the dedicated demonstration area. A tour of the new-look factory, restructured in advance of the launch of LANDCROS FIT, brought the new customisation programme to life.

“It’s important to look back at what we have achieved in our shared journey,” says HCME President Francesco Quaranta, “as well as focus on what comes next. As we prepare for an exciting new chapter in our company’s history, we are building on strong foundations with our loyal dealer network.”

The glittering awards evening highlighted the sales performance of dealers in various machine categories. Winners of the ‘Performance Growth Award’ included Rotator (Finland) for crawler excavators, Nasta (Norway) for wheeled excavators, HJM (Spain) for wheel loaders and CMD (Israel) for mini excavators. Belgium’s dealer Luyckx collected the Sales Funnel Management Excellence Award.

“This year’s awards reflect not only outstanding sales performance, but also the depth of commitment our dealer network brings to every market they serve,” says Hubertus Muenster, Director Sales at HCME. “The strength of our commercial results across Europe is a direct testament to the dedication of our partners. As we approach the transition to LANDCROS, I am confident that these strong relationships will continue to drive growth and open new opportunities .”

Building on strong foundations

Additional accolades were presented to dealers excelling in the provision of parts and rental equipment. Delvator AB (Sweden) picked up the Parts Sales Performance Award. And SCAI collected the Rent2Rent Fleet Growth Award in recognition of its success with the Hitachi Premium Rental programme in Italy.

Further awards were collected by Kiesel (Poland) for marketing, Probst Maveg (Switzerland) for extended warranty, Hitachi Construction Machinery NL for ZAXIS Finance, and Hitachi Construction Machinery UK for dealer intelligence platform adoption.

“Bringing our dealer network together in Amsterdam was a powerful reminder of the shared vision that unites us,” says Laura Hendriks, Director Marketing & Brand Communication at HCME. “The recognition given to Kiesel for marketing excellence is particularly meaningful – it combines innovative thinking with clear strategic objectives and original campaign execution. As we prepare to introduce LANDCROS to the world, events like this are essential in building the alignment and enthusiasm that will make our brand evolution truly resonate across Europe.”

Francesco adds: “We are FIT for the future – with loyal partners, to outstanding customers. We appreciate our Dealers loyalty and expertise in Europe, and the role they play in providing our customers with outstanding Hitachi’s products, solutions, service and support. Congratulations to all who celebrate our achievements and focus on shaping our future brand LANDCROS.”

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Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) has introduced the ZX135-7EB, a 13-tonne battery-electric excavator, expanding its range of zero-emission construction equipment. The model is designed to meet growing demand for emission-free operation, particularly in urban and residential environments where noise and exhaust emissions are regulated.

The ZX135-7EB produces zero exhaust emissions and operates at lower noise levels than comparable diesel machines. According to Hitachi, the electric excavator also offers reduced maintenance requirements and lower downtime.

Comparable performance to diesel model

The ZX135-7EB is designed to deliver a level of performance comparable to the ZX135-7 diesel excavator. It is intended for a wide range of applications, including urban construction sites and residential developments, where restrictions on emissions and sound levels apply.

Flexible charging and operation

The excavator can operate in two modes: battery-powered operation using 198 kWh lithium-ion batteries, or wired grid assist mode, which allows the machine to continue working while connected to a CEE 400 V AC three-phase power supply. This dual-mode approach enables extended working hours and continuous operation. Hitachi states that owners can expect reduced maintenance costs compared to diesel-powered  excavators. The electric drive system, including battery status and motor load factor, can be monitored remotely. Lower external sound levels allow increased flexibility in working hours, particularly in noise-sensitive areas. Safety features include the Aerial Angle camera system, providing a 270-degree bird’s-eye view of the working area.

Focus on zero-emission development

“Our largest battery-powered excavator is capable of working productively and efficiently on urban and residential construction projects,” says Norihiko Kinugawa, Product Manager at HCME. “The ZX135-7EB combines robust build quality with a charging
system designed to support daily operation.”

He adds: “We continue to respond to growing demand for zero-emission equipment while addressing customer requirements for safety, productivity and reduced life-cycle costs.”

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Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) has announced the arrival of Europe’s first EX2000-7 ultra-large excavator. The 200-tonne machine was delivered to a customer in France in September 2025 following assembly and commissioning by authorised dealer Teramat. This landmark machine was the first Hitachi model to be chosen by the customer, which is based in the central-eastern region of the country.

Renowned for its robustness and productivity, the EX2000-7 is designed to withstand the most demanding conditions. The company’s decision to invest in the excavator was influenced by the site’s excavation constraints (0 to 13m high at the working face) and the machine’s narrow 9m³ Hitachi bucket (enabling increased penetration force). Teramat added additional options to further optimise performance, including a chain scraper for material removal, water mist fire protection system, and auxiliary cab heating.

A trusted partnership

The EX2000-7 was inaugurated at a special event in October, which was attended by Satoshi Konno, VP Product Support, Parts & Mining at HCME, and Pierre Mailland-Rosset, Managing Director of Teramat, as well as regional politicians, and the customer’s teams and partners.

The delivery is testament to the strong partnership between HCME, Teramat and the customer. It reflects more than 20 years of collaboration based on trust, performance, and high-level technical support.

Pierre Mailland-Rosset said: “This delivery represents much more than just a simple commissioning – it is the culmination of an industrial project carried out hand in hand with our customer and the Hitachi teams. The arrival of the first EX2000-7 of this type in Europe illustrates the mutual trust that unites us and Teramat’s ability to support its partners on large-scale projects.”

Satoshi Konno added: “I am particularly impressed by the quality of the relationship between Teramat and its customer, as well as the professionalism shown by the teams throughout the project. This commissioning is just the beginning – we will continue to support Teramat to ensure the availability and performance of this machine.”

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Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (“HCME”) announces that Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (President and Executive Officer: Masafumi Senzaki; “Hitachi Construction Machinery”) will establish “LANDCROS Development Center Europe GmbH,” (“LANDCROS Development Center Europe”) , a wholly owned subsidiary in Germany, effective January 1, 2026. This marks a strategic expansion of the company’s R&D capabilities for battery-powered excavators, ICT-enabled products, and digital solutions.

By establishing a dedicated R&D hub in Europe, a region at the forefront of environmental regulations and advanced construction technology, Hitachi Construction Machinery will rapidly bring next-generation products and solutions to customers worldwide. This marks the establishment of the first new company to bear the “LANDCROS” name since announcing the trade name and brand transition plan, signalling a bold step in the company’s transformation.

Europe: The Ideal Innovation Hub

The European market presents unique opportunities for construction machinery innovation. With some of the world’s strictest environmental regulations and growing demand for zero-emission equipment, Europe mirrors the global shift toward sustainable construction practices. Similar to the automotive industry’s electric transition, construction machinery that eliminates Co2 emissions during operation is rapidly gaining traction across the region.

Europe also leads in labor-saving technologies and efficiency-driven construction. European dealers and specialists routinely develop multi-purpose excavator attachments and ICT-equipped machinery, creating an ecosystem of innovation that drives the industry forward.

“Establishing LANDCROS Development Center Europe strengthens our commitment to working closely with European partners and leveraging the region’s leadership in sustainability and technology, says Francesco Quaranta, HCME President and CEO. This new hub will enable us to co-create next-generation solutions that meet local needs while driving global progress in zero-emission and digital construction machinery.” 

Separating Global Innovation from Regional Specialization

Since its establishment in 2018, KTEG GmbH (“KTEG”), a joint venture between Kiesel Technology GmbH (50.1%) and Hitachi Construction Machinery (49.9%), has achieved significant milestones in developing battery-powered excavators, ICT products, and specialized applications for the European market. This success culminated in the showcase of nine zero-emission machines under both the KTEG and Hitachi brands at Bauma, demonstrating the effectiveness of the joint venture’s innovation capabilities.

With the new strategic separation both organizations will excel in their respective areas while working collaboratively to serve the European market and beyond. The new center aims to attract top engineering talent from the construction machinery and automotive industries, targeting approximately 100 developers in the coming years.

This establishment represents a clear division of development responsibilities in Europe:

• LANDCROS Development Center Europe will focus on developing next-generation battery-powered excavators, ICT-compatible products, and digital solutions aligned with Hitachi Construction Machinery’s medium- to long-term global roadmap
• KTEG will concentrate its expertise on developing and marketing specialized application products tailored to European customer needs

Global Development Network

LANDCROS Development Center Europe will serve as a vital hub in Hitachi Construction Machinery’s global development network, working alongside development centers in Japan and India, to begin with. The company will collaborate openly with European partners, including automotive industry suppliers and technology specialists, to deliver innovative solutions that meet evolving customer needs worldwide.

“LANDCROS Development Center Europe represents a bold step toward redefining the future of construction machinery, concludes Francesco.  By investing in advanced R&D capabilities in Europe, we are accelerating innovation in battery-powered equipment, ICT integration, and digital solutions that will shape a more sustainable and efficient industry worldwide.”

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Several Hitachi Zaxis-7 excavators are currently working on the M27 Junction 10 improvement scheme for sub-contractor CP Groundworks Ltd. The five- to 22-tonne machines and their attachments have been supplied by Synergy Hire for the project, which is due to be completed by summer 2026.

The road construction site in southern England is providing highways infrastructure to support up to 6,000 new homes in Welborne Garden Village near Fareham. It involves upgrading the motorway junction, and includes constructing a new underpass, adding three new slip roads, and creating a dual carriageway that will link the slip roads to the existing road network.

CP Groundworks is responsible for all the civil engineering aspects on site, such as earthworks, drainage, kerbing and ducting. The variety of work is reflected by the diverse range of Hitachi machines, including a ZX48U-6 mini excavator, two ZX95USB-7s, a ZX150W-7 wheeled excavator, and two zero-tail swing models: the ZX135US-7 and ZX225USLC-7.

Added flexibility

The company hires large equipment to minimise service and maintenance responsibilities, and has relied on Synergy Hire to supply its excavator fleet for five years. “The most important reason for choosing Synergy Hire is the level of service we receive,” says Project Manager Jon Morgan.

CP Groundworks also appreciates the flexibility provided by Synergy Hire. It can carry out routine servicing on weekends to minimise downtime during the week, which is invaluable on time-critical projects involving road closures. “This helps us to meet our targets and programme delivery,” he explains. “If a machine is down for two-and-a-half hours due to servicing, we lose a quarter of our productivity for the day.”

Quick responses to last-minute requests and reliable support are also key to the success of the relationship with Synergy Hire. “If I need a machine here tomorrow – they’ll say, ‘Do you want it this afternoon?’” says Jon. “They would move heaven and earth to transport plant to us. And you don’t often see that approach in this industry.”

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Redefining the Future of Construction and Mining Sites

Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (HCM) is proud to announce its transformation and rebranding to LANDCROS, effective April 2027.

The construction and mining industries are entering a new era. The world demands faster, smarter, and more sustainable ways to build infrastructure and housing at an unprecedented scale, with fewer skilled operators, lower costs, and tighter deadlines. In this context, Hitachi Construction Machinery has chosen to reinvent itself, standing side by side with its customers and distribution partners to lead this transformation together.

Solutions Beyond Machinery

‘LANDCROS’ expresses the company’s determination to deliver innovative solutions to customers around the world in the construction and mining industries.

This brand shift reflects the company’s commitment to embark on a new journey to further accelerate its evolution and forms part of its ongoing efforts to create and deliver value together with customers into the future.

Francesco Quaranta, HCM Europe President & CEO, said: “LANDCROS represents our commitment to go beyond machinery, empowering customers with intelligent, connected, and sustainable solutions. It is based on a partnership philosophy, working openly with technology leaders, integrating cutting-edge digital and AI capabilities into machines that symbolize reliability in the construction industry, whilst creating a reimagined customer experience from ground to cloud.”

This evolution builds on our trusted dealer network, the foundation of our success. Together, we will shape a new customer journey that unites AI, data, design, and human ingenuity, building a more sustainable world.

Vision made real

Our vision started to take form with the unveiling of LANDCROS One at Bauma 2025, a prototype that redefines what a machine can be: autonomous, remotely operated, and designed to engage the next generation through intuitive, gamified ergonomics, integrating reliable technology partners into a seamless user experience. The reaction from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, confirming that we are on the right path.

“We are changing the name. We are changing the game. But one thing will never change: who we are,” emphasized Francesco Quaranta. “Our values, our people, our quality, our promise of reliability, and our commitment to our trusted dealers and customers will stay forever. With LANDCROS, we transition from building machines to designing seamless user experiences, supported by advanced technology, opening new possibilities at construction sites where every operator can achieve exceptional performance.”

HCM President and Executive Officer, COO Masafumi Senzaki commented: “We aim to cultivate ‘LANDCROS’ into a brand that will make our customers feel that they made the right choice when selecting our machinery or services, our shareholders confident about their decision to invest in the company, and our employees feel that their work is meaningful.”

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