Komatsu’s latest construction and utility machinery was on full display at its Boots On event, bringing together more than 400 staff, customers and media at the Hunter Plant Operator Training School in Cessnock, NSW.
At Boots On, attendees experienced firsthand the Komatsu 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 industry a chance to view the latest advancements in the company’s machinery and how its smart construction solutions has evolved to improve the modern jobsite.
Komatsu Australia’s Executive General Manager for Construction and Utility, David Small, said the event had always been a fantastic opportunity for the manufacturer 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,” he said.
“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.
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.
Komatsu’s National Business Manager for Construction, Mark Boyes, said the new PC220LCi-12 was built on extensive customer feedback, especially around cab design.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Both the PC220LCi-12 and iMC 3.0 will be available to Australian and New Zealand customers in late 2025.
Smart moves
General Manager for Smart Construction at Komatsu, James Muir, said Komatsu’s 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,” he said.
“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.”
Compact class
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.
Komatsu’s Utility Equipment National Sales Manager Carl Grundy said the 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,” he said.
“The PC88MR-11 excavator 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.”
Other equipment
Mark said the Komatsu HB215LC-3 hybrid excavator combines an electric capacitor with motor generators to deliver a highly efficient machine in the 20-tonne class.
“What the hybrid system enables is for the pump to be stroked while the engine runs at low idle – meaning it can maintain productivity while significantly reducing fuel consumption,” he said.
“In the right application, this machine can be up to 25 to 35 per cent more fuel efficient than comparable conventional models.
“And when paired with Komatsu’s 3D Machine Guidance, operators will see additional gains in overall efficiency. The system not only provides payload information but also precise guidance to bucket tip position, helping deliver better results in less time.”
The HB215LC-3 is a long carriage machine and comes equipped with a suite of Komatsu standard features – flashing beacon, operator protective guard (OPG) top guard, colour touchscreen display and proportional hydraulic controls all come as standard.
Safety is another key focus. The HB215LC-3 is fitted with KomVision, the 360-degree camera system, which provides operators with full visibility around the machine.
“That is a major advantage when working on busy or constrained sites – you can see anyone or anything that moves into the slew radius, improving site awareness and reducing the risk of incidents,” Mark said.
Also on display at the event was a cross-section of Komatsu’s construction dozer line-up, ranging from compact to heavy-duty machines.
Komatsu Construction Dozers and Graders National Business Manager Pat Munro said the fleet spans from the smaller D39 up to the 50-tonne D275, giving customers plenty of choice depending on the job at hand.
“On display was the 29-tonne D85EXi, along with the D65EXi – a 24-tonne unit fitted with external push arms and a lock-up torque converter,” he said.
“We’ve also got the D71PXi, which is currently our top-selling model. It features a folding power-angle-tilt (PAT) blade – a standout for civil contractors because it stays under the 3-metre width limit when folded.
“That means it can be floated between sites without a pilot vehicle, which is a major cost saving for transport and logistics. It’s especially popular for final trim work and general civil applications.”
The PAT blade is a feature unique to Komatsu One Series dozers – the D51, D61 and D71 models – which are well suited to finish grading and more detailed work.
“On the other hand, our Five Series dozers – the D65, D85, D155 and D275 – are designed for bulk earthworks, with external push arms that make them ideal for heavy dozing,” Pat said.
“But with intelligent Machine Control (iMC) 2.0 now fitted across the range, they’re more versatile than ever. With the right material and operator, even the larger machines can grade to final level with impressive accuracy.
“All the iMC dozers on site were running the latest 2.0 version, which includes two antennas supporting multiple GNSS, quick surface creation, lift layer control, proactive dozing control, and tile steering control. These upgrades are aimed at making operators more efficient while reducing rework.
“We’ve also brought along a used D61 machine, which our team is using to train staff on trade appraisals. It’s a practical way to walk through key things to check when evaluating older equipment and to better understand the life cycle of a Komatsu dozer.
“Everything we’ve put on display is about showing customers how Komatsu’s technology, design and machine options come together to suit real-world jobs. Whether it’s reducing transport headaches, increasing operator productivity, or helping crews achieve tighter tolerances with less effort – the aim is to deliver practical benefits that flow right through a project.”
Meanwhile, Komatsu’s National Business Manager for Quarry and Waste, Nick Vrontas, was busy showing off the latest innovative load and haul range.
“They help customers tackle their biggest challenge – reducing operational costs,” he said.
“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,” he said.
“We heard at the event that keeping operational costs down remains top of mind for our customers in the load and haul space.
“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 said Komatsu received extremely positive feedback about Boots On, and was 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,” he said.
“We’re excited to host similar training events for customers in the near future, especially as we rollout the new PC220LCi-12.”
