Bauma launch for Hyundai's Series 9 excavators

Hyundai will be introducing a new full range of excavators in the shape of its new 9 Series machines at this year's bauma. The company began the launch programme with the showing of prototype and pre-production units at a number of international events during 2009, and from January 2010, is placing five 'seed' machines in the hands of selected European dealers, with the aim of introducing its dealers and customers to the concept, as well as getting some hands-on feedback.

According to Europe managing director Jin-Wook Hwang: "We want to be as ready as possible for that show, by being able to thoroughly inform people and have the answers to whatever questions they might still have. Moreover, this feedback programme will allow to further fine-tune the rest of the 9 Series excavator range to the specific needs of European operators. In the end, it is the operator who we have developed these machines for."

The five seed machines are the R16-9 1.6 tonne mini, R272-9 2.7 tonne mini, R140W-9 14 tonne wheeled machine, R210LC-9 21 tonne tracked machine and the R145LCR-9 14 tonne compact radius unit, which is a completely new addition to the company's range.