Compact specialist
01 May 2008
Ihimer has launched three new models of mini excavator in the 1 to 2 tonne class, and hopes these machines will help it secure a bigger slice of this high-volume market. The 14 NTX, 16 NTX and 18 NTX have maximum operating weights of 1,55, 1,65 and 1,77 tonnes respectively. When fitted with a canopy they weigh in at 1,43, 1,53 and 1,65 tonnes.
All three have a common transport width of 0,98 m. However, the 18 NTX features an extendable undercarriage that can be widened to 1,3 m for extra stability. As a consequence, this model has the greatest working envelope of the three, with its 2,46 m dig depth and 4,09 m of horizontal reach.
The 16NTX comes with a choice of two boom and stick packages that can offer either 2,1 m or 2,36 m of digging depth. The 14 NTX meanwhile is a straightforward machine with a 2,01 m dig depth.
History
Imer has distributed IHI equipment in Italy since 1987, and has been manufacturing some models under licence since 1989. In June 2002 the two companies signed an agreement to establish IHIMER. The company is 51% owned by IHI Construction Machinery and 49% by Imer.
Ihimer's revenues grew +24% last year to € 44 million, growth which the company says was driven by sales outside Italy. Its exports to other European countries were up +28%, while it claims its share of the Italian market increased by +18% compared to 2003. In unit terms, the company is aiming to sell 2500 machines this year, compared to the 2400 of 2004.
The company's three new excavators, which complement its range of skid steer loaders and compact crawler carriers, will play a big role in achieving this growth of around +5%. Katsumi Ohashi, CEO of IHIMER told CE, “Ihimer's growth in 2004 surpassed our sales forecast, particularly in the foreign markets. Besides consolidating our presence in Italy, we want to strengthen our position in the European equipment market, aiming to reach a 6% market share within the next year.”
According to Mr Ohashi, world demand for 1 to 2 tonne mini excavators runs at about 100000 units per year. Of these, some 44000 are sold in Europe, and Italy represents 25% of that demand, or about 11000 units per year.
