Shantui to develop 100 hp dozer for Europe

Speaking exclusively to CE, general manager Zhang Xiuwen said, "Europe is a demanding market in terms of engine emissions. We now have the S16, which is stage IIIA compliant and we are also working on a 100 hp machine with hydrostatic drive."

The SD16, which is currently available in Europe, features a Stage IIIA QSC 8.3 engine from Cummins. It has an operating weight of 17 tonnes and offers a 4,5 m turning radius.

Home market

According to Mr Zhang, market conditions in Shantui's home market of China have picked up well since the end of last year. "In the last two months of 2008 the market slid very sharply. It has been getting better since January, and in March it was a lot better.

"There have been two major factors for us. Traditionally the market always picks up after the Spring Festival. That was in January - very early- this year, and so February was a good month.

"Our industry is also enjoying some of the greatest impacts from the Chinese government's stimulus package. There is a lot of road building in the package, so roller sales should enjoy a particular benefit."

Previously a specialist dozer manufacturer, Shantui is now working on broadening its product portfolio. Mr Zhang said, "We are the biggest dozer manufacturer in China, with a 58% share. Over the last two years we have been thinking about what other products to add, and we have developed rollers, compact machines, forklift trucks and concrete pumps. We will also introduce drill rigs in the future."