This year at ConExpo 2020, Hyundai introduced its newest line of excavators, designated as the A Series. This new A Series stands out with a new color scheme and many new improvements, that greatly enhance operator performance, improve fuel economy, and enhance machine serviceability.
The HX series of Hyundai excavators was originally introduced to the market in 2015 as an all-new excavator design, powered by tier 4 final engines. Since the introduction, many improvements to the existing design were added, like steel side bumpers on the upper-structure for improved protection, EPFC (Electric Positive Flow Control) for enhanced hydraulic performance, and new Kawasaki-designed joysticks for improved operation and feel. Many of these new innovations were proven in the field on select models of the HX series and are now featured standard on most models of the newly-released HX [A Series] machines, now hitting the U.S. Market.
Recently we spoke with Mike Fuller, Sr. Product Manager for Hyundai Construction Equipment, about some of the unique features and improvements, now available on the new A Series excavators.
According to Mike, there are many differences between the previous HX series and the new A Series, but some of the most impressive improvements include better fuel economy, improved hydraulic control, and enhanced serviceability. “[Hyundai] improved hydraulics across the board,” said Fuller. “These [hydraulic] changes helped save fuel and will reduce wear and tear – on both the operator and the machine – and increase productivity, via the improved controllability.”
The NED companies – MAY-RHI, Four Seasons Equipment, and Earthmovers Construction Equipment – are now receiving several of these new A Series machines into new inventory. “Hyundai is currently shipping the first wave of A Series machines, including our HX210AL, HX220AL, HX300AL, HX350AL, and HX380AL models. Additional models like our HX235ALCR, HX260AL, HX480AL, HX520AL will be arriving at dealerships by the end of Q2,” said Fuller.
One of the biggest changes to the new A Series machines is the new Cummins-powered engine technology and after-treatment system. Hyundai has a global agreement in place with Cummins, and most of the equipment that Hyundai produces will be powered by Cummins engines.
Cummins Performance Series Engine
The new Performance Series engine, as it is called in North America, meets European Stage V emissions regulations and exceeds the current U.S. emissions standards for Tier 4 Final.
“The EGR-free architecture improves power and torque, reduces complexity, improves reliability, and provides fuel savings,” said Fuller.
“The emissions system is different than before, and now has a DPF (diesel particulate filter) with no EGR (exhaust gas recirculation). Even though it has a DPF, the system has passive regeneration, so there is no mandatory downtime. The new single-module after treatment system combines a DPF, SCR, and urea dosing, all in one unit. Today, the new A Series is approximately 7-11 % more fuel-efficient, depending on the model – as compared to the previous series,” explained Fuller.
In 2021, the model that Hyundai expects will garner lots of popularity is the new HX210AL.
“This new model meets the demand of many small-to-medium contractors who are looking for a fuel-efficient machine with similar production and performance capacity as other 6-cylinder, 20-22 ton size machines,” explained Fuller.
The new HX210AL fills a gap in Hyundai’s excavator model lineup and competes directly with other machines that feature 4-cylinder engines and reduced operating weights. The big brother model HX220AL also changed, with a boost in operating weight from 51,500 lbs on the previous series to 53,860 lbs on the new A series model, it is further separated from the HX210AL in lifting capacity and performance specs.
From an operator perspective, Fuller explained, “many of the newest features of the A Series will enhance performance, improve operator control and increase ease of service. Operators will really like some of the new improvements in the A Series. Especially the new joystick controllers, made by Kawasaki, which are smoother and because of a longer throw, and other design features, they are easier to control, especially when fine grading.”
The newest hydraulic control system, known as EPFC (Electric Positive Flow Control) allows the operator to customize the machine response, speed, and power, according to the type of work he is doing.
“Now operators can adjust the arm-to-boom flow ratio, boom-to-swing flow ratio, and the load sensitivity according to the weight and type of material they are handling,” explained Fuller. By making these adjustments, operators can improve the performance of the machine, specific to their unique application or operating condition, for truck loading, general excavating, trenching, or when operating with heavier or lighter materials.
The A Series, has a new feature called Owner Menu Editing, designed to safeguard preferred operator settings. Hyundai understands that multiple operators, working different shifts, can be on the same excavator at different times. Now, there is a way to “set and forget” the key performance features that are set in the monitor and they can be password-protected, so there is less opportunity for machine configuration changes that can adversely impact performance.
Owner Menu Editing
Another cool feature of the new A series is the new Lift Mode, which is enhanced by two new swing control features – Fine Swing and Free Swing.
“The new Lift Mode is great when an operator is picking a heavy load, as it allows engine rpm drop slightly which in turn reduces flow and increases pressure, by automatically utilizing Power Boost mode, providing maximum and constant lifting force,” said Fuller.
When used in combination with the new and individually-selectable Fine Swing and Free Swing modes, operators have improved control over the load.
“Fine Swing mode provides cushioning at the start and stop of the swing. When picking a heavy load, the Free Swing feature will release the swing brake, allowing the upper-structure to center over the load, for an even more controlled and safer lift.”
Another nice improvement from a service standpoint is the new ECD – Engine Connected Diagnostics – that Hyundai now offers with support and technology from Cummins.
“Now we have improved access to fault codes and troubleshooting information for the engine, and all this information is available on the monitor, and through our telematics system, HiMATE,” said Fuller. Hyundai’s HiMATE system is a proprietary telematics platform that is offered free of charge for five years, with the purchase of any new Hyundai excavator.
3-Piece Engine Hood
Additional service improvements to the A Series lineup include a three-piece engine hood that is easier to open and access, wider steps leading to the upper structure that are covered by a newly-designed anti-slip surface, improved dimple-style bushings at all the implement joints, and new Hyundai buckets that feature easy-to-replace hammerless style teeth.
One thing that separates Hyundai from other competitors in the market, is that “Hyundai listens,” said Fuller. “All of the changes made on the new A Series models were made from the previous HX series to the new A Series, reflecting requests from our customers and dealers.”
National Equipment Dealers (NED) is Hyundai’s largest dealership in North America. With over 40 years of combined experience, NED’s companies include MAY-RHI in North Carolina and South Carolina, Four Seasons Equipment in Texas, and Earthmovers Construction Equipment in Florida. With hundreds of Hyundai excavators, loaders, and other equipment in the NED rental fleet and new machine inventory, NED is uniquely qualified to support the Hyundai product with the highest level of expertise and support available. “We really enjoy the relationship we have with MAY-RHI, Four Seasons Equipment, and Earthmovers. Having a dealership with trained people, who understand our products and take care of our customers, is key to growing our brand,” said Fuller. For more information about any of the NED Companies or to find a location near you, visit www.nedealers.com.
