Electric Mini Excavators: Are They Right for Your Business?

Mini excavators have become must-haves on many jobsites thanks to their convenient size and ability to perform digging, lifting and demolition. Now electric mini excavators have been added to the growing list of electric construction equipment making it easier for companies to meet their sustainability goals and become more efficient and profitable.

These diggers produce zero emissions. Compared to diesel-powered machines, they’re much quieter and cost less to operate. They’re a smart choice for indoor work, projects in urban no-emission zones and work in areas with noise and emissions restrictions, such as those near schools and hospitals.

Is an electric mini excavator right for your business? Here’s a closer look at the benefits, capabilities and charging requirements.

Benefits of electric mini excavators vs. diesel models

Electric mini excavators can do the same work with the same—or better—power and speed as comparable diesel excavators, and they offer distinct advantages.

Zero emissions

Because they produce no emissions, electric mini excavators are a win for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint and comply with project requirements and clean air laws. What’s more, using electric construction equipment can potentially drive more business by demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Less maintenance

Electric mini excavators run on rechargeable, maintenance-free lithium-ion batteries. They offer continuous operation with no engine liquids to monitor or refill, no oil filters to change and fewer parts to maintain, resulting in lower maintenance costs and longer service intervals. Less maintenance equals more uptime and greater productivity.

If you purchase an electric mini excavator and perform maintenance and repairs in-house, you may need to train your mechanics to service the equipment, but the long-term savings on maintenance should dwarf that investment.

Lower operating costs

Electricity is cheaper than fossil fuel. Not only will you save on fuel and maintenance with an electric machine, but you’ll eliminate the extra cost of exhaust extraction equipment required for indoor jobs or work under bridges and in tunnels.

Safer for workers

Because electric equipment generates no exhaust fumes, the air is safer for construction crews and people who live and work nearby. Also, electric mini excavators are up to five times quieter and generate less vibrations than similar diesel machines. As a result, workers can communicate better, and equipment operators will enjoy more comfort and less fatigue on the job, reducing the likelihood of accidents and boosting productivity.

Work wherever, whenever

You can use an electric mini excavator almost anywhere thanks to its compact size, long battery run time, emissions-free operation and quiet motor. It is especially well suited for environments where diesel equipment would be unacceptable, such as many indoor areas, food production facilities, zoos and areas near livestock.

Quiet operation also allows you to start work early in the morning and end later in the evening so you can finish jobs faster.

Capabilities and features of an electric mini excavator

The capabilities and specs of electric mini excavators are similar to those of diesel models of the same size.

The smallest models weigh just 1-2 tons and are ideal for DIY landscaping jobs and for digging trenches up to 8 feet deep. The largest mini excavators weigh 6-10 tons and can dig up to 15 feet deep. They are commonly used for cutting utility trenches, placing footings and clearing land for construction projects.

Cost considerations

In general, you’ll pay a premium to buy or rent electric equipment. Some or all of that difference is offset over time by lower operating and maintenance costs, as well as the possibility of winning new business. Federal and state purchase incentives may apply, further reducing the upfront investment.

Charging and battery considerations

To ensure your machine is ready to go when you are, you’ll need the right charging infrastructure and a charging schedule. In some cases, a mini excavator will operate for an entire shift without requiring recharging. For example, a fully charged TB20e from Takeuchi will run for approximately eight hours at 65% load.

Many models include a built-in onboard charger, giving you a choice between using that charger or a faster offboard charger.

With an onboard charger, charging can take 6 to 12 hours depending on the power source. A 240v outlet is recommended. A standard 120v can be used but may double the charging time. Charging can be done between shifts, overnight and, with machines that offer tethering, when the machine is tethered to an outlet during operation.

Offboard charging is faster. It’s possible to fully charge an electric mini excavator in less than two hours with a three-phase rapid charger.

Battery life is worth noting. Most lithium-ion batteries will last five years or 2,000 charging cycles before replacement is needed, but ambient temperature, overcharging, storage and other factors can degrade battery life over time. Most manufacturers offer a two-year warranty on batteries.

If improving the well-being of your employees, meeting sustainability goals and increasing productivity are tops goals, consider an electric mini excavator for your next project. It’s a choice that could save you time and money in the long run while helping the planet.

Browse our selection of mini excavators or call your local branch to inquire if an electric mini excavator is available in your area.