Komatsu kicks it up a level at Boots On event

Komatsu’s latest in construction and utility machinery was on full display in June, with their Boots On event bringing together more than 400 staff and customers over two weeks at Hunter Plant Operator Training School (HPOTS) in Cessnock, to experience firsthand the machinery that powers infrastructure and development projects across Australia.

This was the first time in seven years Komatsu’s signature showcase has been held, offering customers and industry a chance to see the latest advancements in their machinery and how their smart construction solutions has evolved to improve the modern jobsite. 

David Small, Komatsu Australia’s Executive General Manager for Construction and Utility says a big focus of the event was to upskill and train their staff and customers on how to get the most out of Komatsu machinery, including understanding the data the units can provide to improve productivity and performance.

“This event has always been a fantastic opportunity for us to connect staff with customers, and to see machinery they might not usually get to see all in one place. We had around 40 pieces of equipment on site, ranging from our small utility excavators to our graders, dozers and dump trucks for larger construction sites or quarry operations.

“Groups moved between four sessions to be briefed firsthand by the product managers that work with these machines day in and day out, hear about their benefits and even jump in the cab of some to get a feel of the quality that Komatsu can offer,” David says.

New 24-tonne hydraulic excavator star of the show

A major highlight of the event was the debut of the PC220LCi-12, Komatsu’s latest 24-tonne class hydraulic excavator. This machine represents the first major redesign of this series in nearly two decades and introduces Komatsu’s soon-to-be-launched Intelligent Machine Control 3.0 (iMC 3.0) technology. iMC 3.0 offers significant enhancements to semi-automation features that boost productivity and efficiency on site.

“The new PC220LCi-12 was built on extensive customer feedback, especially around cab design,” says Mark Boyes, Komatsu’s National Business Manager for Construction. 

“It improves productivity and precision on site but also provides operators with real-time data at their fingertips. As the industry calls for more automation to bridge operator skill gaps, this model and technology answers that call,” Mark says

“It offers major upgrades to the engine, hydraulics, operator space and control systems, making it safer, more comfortable and incredibly versatile for many applications. The increased cab size, improved user interface and hydraulic control system make it easier for even the most novice operators to use.”

“It will also come with the new iMC 3.0, which takes automation to the next level by introducing 3D boundary control, advanced in-field design capability and enhanced work equipment semi-automation. This technology not only improves productivity but also adds significant safety benefits, by preventing the machine from moving into restricted areas or signalling if there is an object or person in close range,” Mark says.

Both the PC220LCi-12 and iMC 3.0 will be available to Australian and New Zealand customers in late 2025.

Smart Construction continues to transform sites

James Muir, General Manager for Smart Construction at Komatsu, says their Smart Construction solutions, which include cutting-edge guidance systems, drones and real-time Smart Quarry Site data, are transforming the way construction projects are planned and delivered. 

“Fully autonomous earthmoving is evolving, but construction sites are dynamic environments with people, stray animals and countless variables to manage, so it’s unlikely we will see full autonomy for many years yet. That’s why our semi-autonomous machines guide operators with precision while still allowing them ultimate control of the machine,” James says. 

“We got the opportunity to have some of our excavators and dozers at Boots On that showcase how our Smart Construction technology works. Attendees could see the drone capturing detailed 3D scans of the HPOTS site and then processed on the Smart Construction Edge 2.0, ready to be transferred and represented in Smart Construction Dashboard software, with further earthworks and as-built progress captured directly from our machines equipped with 3D Machine Guidance (3DMG) or intelligent Machine Control (iMC).

“These solutions enable operators to achieve two-to-three-centimetre accuracy on every cut and fill, minimising rework, maximising productivity and ensuring projects stay on track and meet the highest quality standards,” James says. 

Compact but versatile utility range

For customers interested in the smaller range of Komatsu machinery, utility excavators were on display, highlighting the versatility, reliability, and operator-focused design that sets these smaller machines apart.

Carl Grundy, Komatsu’s National Sales Manager for Utility Equipment says this range meets the diverse needs of contractors, plumbers, electricians and pool builders across Australia who are looking for something compact, yet productive.

“The tradies that use these machines usually need to tow them on their ute, or are getting them through people’s backyards, under carports or through garages, so they’re designed for maximum productivity and easy transport.

“The PC88MR-11excavator is a standout addition — a nine-tonne machine that’s fully Tier 4 compliant and doesn’t require AdBlue or DPF.  We’ve focused on operator comfort and serviceability, with features like five operating modes, automatic climate control and easy-access panels that make it a true game-changer for contractors working in challenging, confined areas,” Carl says.

Load and haul solutions drive savings

Komatsu’s innovative load and haul range is helping customers tackle their biggest challenge – reducing operational costs – according to Nick Vrontas, Komatsu’s National Business Manager for Quarry and Waste.

Machines like the HD605-10 dump truck and the powerful WA475-10 wheel loader were on display at Boots On, showcasing Komatsu’s commitment to fuel efficiency, productivity and operator safety that is reshaping quarry operations across Australia.

“We heard at the event that keeping operational costs down remains top of mind for our customers in the load and haul space,” Nick says. “Machines like our HD605-10 dump truck, which increases horsepower and payload while reducing fuel consumption, and our WA475-10 wheel loader, which features a new driveline and transmission that enhance fuel efficiency and lower emissions, really stood out as solutions to these challenges.”

“Beyond the machines themselves, we’re investing in technology like Smart Quarry Site and 3D machine guidance to help operators work smarter. These tools give our customers a clear view of on-site operations, helping them maintain safety, efficiency, and control over costs.”

Building for the future

David adds that they have received extremely positive feedback about Boots On, and they’re excited to keep supporting customers with equipment and training that make a real difference on every job site.

“Komatsu is proud to lead the way in construction technology, providing machines that not only meet today’s challenges but set the standard for the future. We’re excited to host similar training events for customers in the near future, especially as we rollout the new PC220LCi-12.”

Visit www.komatsu.com.au or www.komatsu.co.nz to see the latest in Komatsu’s construction and machinery solutions