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Autumn/Winter 2021 17 www.hae.org.uk www.eha.org.uk I ndependent family-run hire specialist, Hewitson Plant Hire, has expanded its extensive excavator fleet by investing in 50 new Kubota machines following a period of significant business growth. Supplying equipment throughout the North East and Yorkshire, the hire company purchased the machines from P V Dobson & Sons. They range from micro-excavators through to the 8-tonne range. Hewitson Plant Hire now boasts a significantly large hire fleet, ensuring the company can meet the diverse needs of its customer base. The new order includes Kubota’s new 5-tonne mini- excavator, the U50-5, designed for working in tight spaces and powered by a high power, low emission, Stage V compliant Kubota built engine. It features a load sensing hydraulic system, float function for easy ground finishing, as well as an auto-shift system that offers intuitive control when dozing and turning. In addition, the U50-5 features newly designed interiors and exteriors, including a larger and quieter cabin, enhanced insulation, improved visibility, as well as a redesigned exterior to give the machines a modern aesthetic. Director at Hewitson Plant Hire, Owen Hewitson, said: “When operating in the midst of a pandemic, it’s vitally important that we provide operators with machinery that simply gets the job done in the toughest conditions, so it was a simple decision to continue to invest in Kubota excavators. “The recent business growth is testament to the reputation we have built over the past 25 years on providing market leading machinery to meet customer demand. A vital part of this is the relationship we have with P V Dobson and Kubota and the service and aftersales support they provide.” HEWITSON PLANT HIRE ENHANCES KUBOTA MACHINERY FLEET K ubota has launched an LPG-powered mini- excavator alongside a fully electric track dumper, as part of its Smart Energy Solutions range The new KX019-4 SI HGL (LPG) mini- excavator and KC70H-4e track dumper utilise low and zero emissions technology. Powered by LPG, The KX019-4 SI HGL (LPG)’s Spark Ignition engine enables dramatically reduced emissions and toxicity in the familiar form factor. Compared to diesel engines, the new excavator emits almost zero particulate matter and reduces nitrous oxide and hydrocarbon emissions to just 5% of an equivalent diesel engine. On site, LPG offers a number of advantages over traditional fuels. Refueling is simpler, faster, and unlike diesel fuel, the canisters cannot contaminate the work site through spillages. Kubota’s Spark Ignition engine no longer requires a diesel particulate filter, reducing the need for maintenance, and operates at lower noise levels, while providing the same levels of power as before. The KX019-4 LPG’s all-day uptime, quieter operation and 2.5m dig depth ensure the new machine is among Kubota’s most versatile mini-excavators. The KC70H-4e offers the same performance and productivity improvements introduced with the KC70 in a fully electric, zero-emission solution. Its fast charge time and all-day continuous run time work hand-in-hand to maximise time on site, while its 700kg load capacity, compact design and low noise engine make the machine perfect for use in any environment at any time of day, including in low emissions areas. Construction Division Manager at Kubota, Glen Hampson, said: “Both new machines offer the same power and capabilities our customers expect, alongside new enhancements set to reduce Kubota’s impact on the planet and deliver on our mission: For Earth, For Life.” KUBOTA LAUNCHES SMART ENERGY SOLUTIONS MACHINE RANGE L-R, Matthew Rowlinson, Construction Sale Manger at PV Dobson, Owen Hewitson, Director at Hewitson Plant Hire, and Colin Frost, Construction Dealer Manager at Kubota UK.