For Australian contractors, where tough conditions, long working hours and increasingly stringent environmental expectations converge, the Zaxis-7 series has proven to be a timely evolution of a trusted brand.
In 2022, Hitachi Construction Machinery (HCA) introduced the Zaxis-7 range of medium excavators to the Australian market, empowering customers to take full control of their safety, fleet management, profitability, and comfort thanks to its enhanced reliability, versatility, and productivity.
With a strong focus on technology and the future, the development of the series was driven by the goal of creating next-generation solutions, accomplished through a thorough review and refinement of its technology, taking into account both natural and work environments.
Since their release, the Zaxis-7 machines have quickly carved out their place in Australia’s highly competitive equipment market.
Compact models are working on urban sites throughout the country, where manoeuvrability and low emissions are critical, while the heavy-duty machines are taking on demanding roles in resources, mining and civil projects across the country.
The balance of efficiency, sustainability, and durability has ensured that the Zaxis-7 is not seen merely as a compliance-driven update but as a step forward in the way excavators contribute to productivity and project success.
Among the satisfied customers is Tom Hance, the owner of SouthCut Plant & Civil (SouthCut), a Melbourne-based company specialising in equestrian/horse arenas, local council and civil construction projects.
Tom purchased a Hitachi ZX135-7 excavator in late 2022, and he couldn’t be happier with his decision.
“The ZX135-7 truly stands out when it comes to completing precise final trim work; it’s a dream to operate,” he said.
Tom was particularly impressed with improvements inside the cab.
Australian operators, who often work long, demanding shifts, have welcomed the quieter, more comfortable environment of the Zaxis-7. Reduced vibration, better seating, ergonomic controls and excellent visibility all contribute to less fatigue and greater confidence in challenging environments.
In a market where skilled operators are increasingly hard to find, these upgrades have helped contractors attract and retain talent by offering machines that are not just powerful but also genuinely pleasant to operate.
“The boys are able to complete jobs more efficiently with less fatigue due to the new cab,” Tom said.
The redesigned interior significantly enhances operator visibility through features like LED work lights, an effective windscreen wiper, generously sized reflective strips, and roller sunshades.
Additional notable features are the inclusion of a standard 270-degree rear camera, complete with an object proximity sensor ensuring a heightened level of safety within the work environment. The ISO standard TOPS and ROPS cab with seat belt further strengthens operator safety and protection.
The excavator comes with built-in Consite capabilities, facilitating real-time monitoring of machine performance, playing a crucial role in pre-emptive maintenance and prolonging the machine’s lifespan. Additionally, an alarm display is integrated to promptly alert the operator to any issues, enabling swift attention.
As for the digging performance, Tom said the ZX135-7’s 2D GPS hydraulics have greatly increased its versatility, allowing the SouthCut team to effortlessly tackle various jobs: from final trim applications requiring a super-smooth operation to tree work that demands heavy lifting capabilities.
“And thanks to the renowned Hitachi hydraulic system, fuel consumption is reduced compared to the previous models,” he said.
Across the medium to large class models, operators have reported savings of up to 10 per cent compared to the earlier Zaxis-6 range.
On long-duration jobs where machines run almost continuously, these savings add up quickly, improving the bottom line for earthmoving businesses.
With several equestrian and arena projects lined up, the team at SouthCut have a full schedule ahead.
“The ZX135-7 will primarily be utilised on bulk earthworks and drainage on local council projects,” Tom said.
And it wasn’t just the excavator’s exceptional reliability that led to the decision to purchase the model: it was also driven by HCA’s support network.
Tom sought a machine that would continue to perform well past the factory warranty date, and was pleased to find that dealing with the service and parts team at HCA’s Melbourne branch was an exceptional experience, further strengthening his confidence in the brand.
During his interactions with HCA’s Sales Representative, Wesley Don, Tom was impressed by the professionalism, punctuality, and transparency demonstrated.
Right from the beginning, Tom was treated like a valued member of the “orange family,” inspiring him to make a second purchase from Hitachi: a ZX85 excavator in 2023.
“There’s no doubt that the Hitachi Zaxis-7 range of excavators has truly made a mark for SouthCut and in the industry with its cutting-edge technology and operator-friendly features,” he said.
To check out the range of Zaxis-7 excavators, visit www.hitachicm.com.au or call 1300 HITACHI to arrange a test drive.