Developed for high-volume production operations and quarries, the 389-horsepower Hitachi ZW370-6 offers 360-degree visibility, ride control and 48,780 pounds of breakout force.
“The first thing you see in the cab is that the front window goes all the way down both sides,” says Nathan Little, North American product specialist, Hitachi Construction Machinery Loaders America, speaking to Equipment World at ConExpo 2020. “You can see any obstructions that are in the wheel path.” Additional visibility is gained on the left side of the seat, where the door panel has a bottom window, and on the right of the seat, where Hitachi has put a door instead of a window.
Out the back window, the machine’s intake and exhaust stack are positioned farther back and lined up together to gain additional visibility. The engine compartment is curved, allowing clear view of the counterweights.
Using Hitachi’s in-cab monitor, operators can access real-time machine telematics and set operating parameters. “You can set the speed at which ride control kicks in, and adjust your kick-outs and dump heights,” Little says.
With the flick of the quick power switch, operators can give the machine extra engine output for going uphill. Owners can choose between an optional Joystick Steering System or the standard steering wheel. “We’re finding that about 30 percent of customers still want the steering wheel, but the majority are preferring joystick steering because it offers less operator fatigue,” Little says.
Also, the loader has a lock-up transmission that provides 30 percent more tractive force than its predecessor, the Kawasaki Z7, and reduces fuel consumption.
