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SEPTEMBER 2026

BIG KOBELCO DEMOLITION EXCAVATOR WHAT’S NEW IN MACHINE CONTROL? heavyequipmentguide.ca PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40069270

THE NEXT-GENERATION MECHANICAL CAREER

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FEATURE STORY WHAT’S NEW IN MACHINE CONTROL?

40 24

AUTONOMY EXPANDS THE ROLE OF THE OPERATOR

HOW GET DESIGN IS EVOLVING

THE NEXT-GENERATION MECHANICAL CAREER

September 2026 | Volume 41, Number 7

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS & SECTIONS

Komatsu celebrates 40 years of North American manufacturing

From the Editor

News Room

What’s new in machine control?

Spotlight

Autonomy expands the role of the operator

Focus: Machine Control

Motor graders: equipment insight & trends

Construction innovation on display at CSPI 2026 in Japan

How GET design is evolving to support uptime, safety, and productivity

The next-generation mechanical career

24 Earthmoving 30 Field Report 34 Compact Equipment 38 Aggregates 44 Demolition & Recycling 48 Maintenance 54 Advertiser Index

SEPTEMBER 2026 | VOLUME 41 • NUMBER 7 EDITOR IN CHIEF

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Kaitlyn Till ktill@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 330 DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL STRATEGY

Slone Fox sfox@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 335

Tina Anderson tanderson@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 222 DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Morena Zanotto morena@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 325

SENIOR WRITER

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

VICE PRESIDENT/CONTROLLER

Meghan Barton mbarton@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 305 Stephanie Bontorin sbontorin@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES/ ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Ken Singer ksinger@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 226

Melvin Date Chong mdatechong@baumpub.com FOUNDER

Engelbert J. Baum

Sam Esmaili sam@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 110

Published by: Baum Publications Ltd.

COVER PHOTO: KOBELCO’S SK1300DLC-11 DEMOLITION EXCAVATOR. Turn to page 44.

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Heavy Equipment Guide serves the Canadian engineered construction industry including: roadbuilding and maintenance; highways, bridges, tunnels; grading and excavating; earthmoving; crushing; trucking and hauling; underground utilities; trenching; concrete paving; asphalt paving; demolition; aggregates production; fleet maintenance; and asset security and management. The magazine is distributed to key industry personnel involved in these sectors. Subscription Price: In Canada, CDN $91.00; Outside Canada, US$149. Heavy Equipment Guide is published eight times a year in January/ February, March, April, May/June, July/August, September, October, and November/December. Heavy Equipment Guide accepts no responsibility or liability for reported claims made by manufacturers and/or distributors for products or services; the views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Baum Publications Ltd. Copyright 2026, Baum Publications Ltd. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publishers. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Printed on paper made of FSC®-certified and other controlled material. ISSN 1715-7013.

WE’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU Do you have a job site story, innovation, or industry concern that our readers should know about? We’d like to hear from you. Contact: Editor in Chief Kaitlyn Till at ktill@baumpub.com or 604-291-9900 ext. 330

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

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FROM THE EDITOR

FROM THE EDITOR CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION ADDRESSES SIGNIFICANT INDUSTRY PROBLEMS

recently had the pleasure of attending CSPI 2026 in Chiba, Japan, where I had the opportunity to interact with stakeholders in the Japanese industry and learn about innovation in that market. Japan is facing many of the same challenges as North America but on an accelerated timeline. Most notably, Japan’s aging workforce is a significant problem. The Japanese government took action on this issue more than a decade ago with its i-Construction initiative, a partnership between government and industry stakeholders that is designed to accelerate development of technologies for construction. Many of today’s industry innovations, including advances in automation and job site connectivity, owe their development, in part, to that framework. While the need to address the shrinking workforce pipeline may be more urgent in Japan than in North America, we have to rise to the same challenge. There aren’t enough operators now, and there isn’t a significant influx of talent on the way. We need technology to help compensate for the shortfall. In this issue, we cover the latest developments in machine control. Machine control systems are becoming an operational necessity, and across the industry OEMs and providers are making these tools more capable. Machine control options are also more flexible than ever, and there is an accessible entry point for every operation. We also take a look at Bluelight Machines, which provides automation kits for soil compaction and articulated haulers. Autonomous retrofit is more attainable than you might think, and it doesn’t replace skilled labour. Instead, it reduces the number of people that you need to get work done so you can keep your talent working on the most critical tasks. Finally, check out my Field Report from CSPI 2026 — there

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

There aren’t enough operators now, and there isn’t a significant influx of talent on the way. were some impressive examples of innovation in the areas of remote control, equipment configuration, job site connectivity, and more. There isn’t one solution to the labour crunch, and technology certainty isn’t going to make the entire problem a moot point. We will always need people on the job site working in, or at least with, the machines. What’s vital is taking the first step of learning these technologies and adopting them as appropriate so your business can get ahead before the labour shortage leaves you behind.

Kaitlyn Till Editor In Chief ktill@baumpub.com heavyequipmentguide.ca

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NEWS ROOM

NEWS ROOM STAY CURRENT www.heavyequipmentguide.ca CONNECT WITH US @HeavyEquipGuide

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

HITACHI AND YANMAR TO EXPLORE COMPACT EQUIPMENT BUSINESS COLLABORATION

uring its 2026 Dealer Meeting, Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas shared its vision for the future as it prepares to rebrand as LANDCROS on April 1, 2027. The company says that the brand transition represents an expanded focus on delivering innovative solutions and strong global partnerships that will help customers address challenges in the construction, mining, quarrying, and infrastructure sectors. To support its goal of increased market share, the company will enter several new machine categories in North America. Over the next two years, Hitachi’s equipment lineup will grow to include wheeled excavators, articulated dump trucks, and compact track loaders under the LANDCROS brand. Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. has also signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. to explore collaboration in the compact construction equipment business. The construction equipment industry is rapidly changing, and OEMs must keep up with diverse customer needs, accelerated technological innovation, and intense global competition. In the competitive compact equipment sector, sustainable growth is expected to require new approaches outside the traditional business framework, such as collaboration between full-line manufacturers and companies specializing in compact equipment. Yanmar and Hitachi are both Japanese companies and share a dedication to technological innovation, durability, and quality, says Hitachi. Building on this foundation, the companies will explore potential areas of collaboration in the compact equipment business, leveraging Yanmar Compact Equipment’s strengths in specialized compact construction equipment and Hitachi Construction Machinery’s global business infrastructure serving the construction and mining sectors. The companies will maintain their respective brand identities throughout the collaboration, and both companies will continue to serve customers through their independent dealer networks.

KOMATSU CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF NORTH AMERICAN MANUFACTURING MORE THAN 60,000 EXCAVATORS HAVE BEEN PRODUCED AT KOMATSU’S CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE, FACTORY BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

or 40 years, Komatsu machines have been rolling off the production line at the company’s Chattanooga, Tennessee, facility (CMO). On July 10, the company invited employees, customers, elected officials, and community members to celebrate its commitment to manufacturing in North America. The anniversary coincides with another big milestone at CMO: Komatsu has now produced more than 60,000 excavators at the facility. That achievement was marked with the ceremonial handover of the 60,000th excavator. Following a demonstration of its latest machines, Komatsu also honoured its legacy of manufacturing in Chattanooga with a restored 1988 WA450-1 wheel loader. According to Komatsu, this machine, known as the “Ochi Loader,” was closely associated with CMO’s first Japanese general manager, Mr. Shohei Ochi.

KOMATSU HANDS OVER 60,000TH EXCAVATOR MANUFACTURED AT CMO

The 60,000th excavator, painted to pay tribute to Chattanooga’s geography and community, was handed over to demolition, environmental, and infrastructure contractor D.H. Griffin during the celebration. “Sixty-thousand machines is more than a number. It represents 40 years of commitment to safety, quality, innovation, and continuous improvement. It represents skill, dedication, and I’m proud of generations of employees who have helped make this facility what it is today,” said Shaye Thompson, quality manager at CMO. “Every machine that leaves Chattanooga carries the work of hundreds of people: our production teams, engineers, quality professionals, maintenance teams, suppliers, and support staff. Together they have built a legacy of equipment trusted around the world. This excavator represents that legacy. It

Komatsu presented the 60,000th excavator built at CMO to infrastructure contractor D.H. Griffin.

carries the experience gained from the 59,999 machines that came before it and the determination to make the next one even better. The first excavator built in Chattanooga proved what this facility could do. This 60,000th excavator proves what our people have accomplished,” Thompson added. The plant’s longest-serving employee, David Dolan, also spoke at the event. Reflecting on his employment at Komatsu, Dolan praised the positive impact that CMO has had on his family and the town. Dolan concluded: “We build machines that customers depend upon every day, and we know quality is not something put on the machine at the end of the assembly line. It is built into every part, every weld, every assembly, and every decision people looking at that part make to put it together. “As we celebrate this anniversary, I hope we remember what brought us here. Hard work, integrity, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to quality, because a machine can be repaired, production numbers can be adjusted,

costs can be improved, but once you lose integrity, you’ve lost everything.”

40 YEARS OF MANUFACTURING IN CHATTANOOGA

Established in 1985, the Chattanooga plant was Komatsu’s first manufacturing facility in the United States. Today, Komatsu manufactures mid-size excavators, including the new PC220LCi-12; articulated dump trucks, including the new HM460-6; and forestry equipment at CMO. To date, over 70,000 Komatsu machines have rolled off the Chattanooga production line. “For 40 years, our Chattanooga plant has demonstrated what can be achieved when talented people are committed to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement,” said Rod Bull, CEO, Komatsu North America. “Reaching 60,000 excavators is an incredible milestone, but what makes Chattanooga truly special is the generations of employees whose dedication has helped build Komatsu’s reputation with customers across North America.” HEG

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

NEWS ROOM reducing the need for costly builds. Caterpillar says the Rapid City team plays a critical role in its global organization by developing tools and technologies that help teams design faster, make better decisions, and deliver solutions to customers more efficiently. The investment builds on Caterpillar’s long-standing partnership with the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, and continues to strengthen its pipeline of talent.

THE UTILITY EXPO NAMES 2027 SHOW CHAIR

CATERPILLAR OPENS NEW DESIGN CENTRE

irtual reality and advanced visualization tools have transformed the equipment design process at Caterpillar’s new Black Hills Engineering Design Center. The 17,000-square-foot facility supports Caterpillar teams worldwide across machines, engines, electrification, and autonomy and allows engineers to design, test, and refine machines without physically building them. Teams use extended reality and digital prototypes to collaborate across continents, catch issues earlier, and move faster,

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evin Thomas will serve as The Utility Expo show chair in 2027. Thomas is the vice president of Alamo Group’s Industrial Equipment Division and will help guide the strategic direction of the 2027 show. The Utility Expo 2027 will bring together utility professionals and equipment manufacturers from across North America. Its focus on equipment innovation and education is designed to support the evolving needs of the utility sector. “Kevin’s deep industry expertise and collaborative leadership style make him an ideal choice to serve as show chair as we look ahead to the 2027 show,” said The Utility Expo Show Director Brianne Somers. “We look forward to working with Kevin on continuing to expand the value we deliver to attendees and deliver another successful event for the utility industry.”

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

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“It’s an honour to serve as the 2027 show chair,” said Thomas. “This event brings together some of the brightest minds in our industry, and I’m looking forward to helping create an experience that encourages collaboration, showcases innovation, and supports the professionals who work every day to maintain and strengthen our utility infrastructure.”

VITALEDGE TECHNOLOGIES ACQUIRES LHP TELEMATICS

italEdge Technologies has acquired LHP Telematics, a provider of industrial telematics solutions for connected equipment, rental fleets, OEMs, and mixed-fleet operations. The acquisition will expand VitalEdge’s machine intelligence solutions for equipment dealers. VitalEdge’s e-Emphasys ERP, IntelliDealer DMS, Integrated Rental, reporting, and VitalityAI solutions help dealers manage the workflows that run the dealership. The LHP acquisition will expand VitalEdge’s ability to assist equipment dealers in connecting critical dealership operations with machine-level data, including location, utilization, meter readings, engine hours, fault codes, and asset-health signals. For dealers managing large equipment fleets across construction, rental, agriculture, material handling, and other industries, this visibility is increasingly important to improving uptime, rental availability, service response, and customer support.

JLG PARENT COMPANY INVESTS IN NEXTERA ROBOTICS

shkosh Corporation, parent company of JLG Industries, has made a strategic equity investment in Nextera Robotics. Nextera develops autonomous technologies that create updated digital maps of active construction sites using visual AI and autonomous robotics. These digital representations provide project teams with timely insights into project progress, quality, and safety, helping identify issues earlier and improve decision-making throughout the construction process. As part of the relationship, JLG will support Nextera's commercialization efforts through customer engagement, field validation, and application expertise. In turn, Nextera’s technology platform complements JLG’s technology road map and can expand how connected equipment creates value on the job site.

MORE NEWS www.heavyequipmentguide.ca

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SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

NEWS ROOM battery-electric solutions to underground mining operations worldwide. Following an extensive global evaluation process that included detailed technical assessments, compliance reviews, safety evaluations, and long-term support considerations, Scania Industrial Batteries was selected as the preferred battery partner. Particular attention was given to battery system design and safety considerations, including measures to reduce arc flash incident energy and support safe maintenance practices. The collaboration with Scania positions MacLean to further support mining companies transitioning toward battery-electric operations while maintaining the performance and reliability expected in underground mining applications.

MACLEAN TAPS SCANIA TO SUPPLY KAL TIRE IS NOW TRANSCALE’S BATTERIES FOR UNDERGROUND EXCLUSIVE DEALER IN CANADA MINING EQUIPMENT

cania Industrial Batteries, a manufacturer of high-performance, modular battery systems for demanding off-road applications, is now MacLean Engineering’s primary supplier for battery-electric underground mining equipment. The collaboration marks an important milestone in MacLean’s ongoing commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable

al Tire’s Mining Tire Group has signed an agreement with Transcale Pty Ltd., appointing Kal Tire as the exclusive Transcale dealer for Canada. The agreement expands Kal Tire’s technology services offering for mine operators seeking greater insight into payload optimization, fleet performance, and operating efficiency. Through the agreement, Kal Tire will provide sales, service, calibration, training, and operational support for Transcale

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

KOMATSU PARTNERS WITH AIM INTELLIGENT MACHINES

K weighing and volumetric scanning systems across Canada. The company will also offer custom mobile installations, payload studies, and integration support to help customers obtain actionable insights from payload, volume, and density data. Kal Tire has extensive experience operating Transcale equipment as part of its technology services offering. Historically, the company has conducted weight scale and volumetric studies on mine sites to support applications that include brake testing, payload calibration, density verification, and shovel system calibration. In Canada, Kal Tire currently performs 10 to 15 site studies annually and recently delivered a mobile system featuring volumetric scanning technology and Transcale Sealed AS700 scales to an oil sands operation.

omatsu Ltd. and its subsidiary EARTHBRAIN Ltd. have entered into a strategic partnership with AIM Intelligent Machines (AIM) to deliver autonomous construction solutions for dozers and hydraulic excavators. Komatsu and EARTHBRAIN provide Smart Construction, a digital construction management solution that helps optimize job sites by connecting construction planning, digitally enabled equipment, job site management, and remote operation. AIM is a provider of autonomy technology and has already commercially deployed autonomous fleets of dozers and hydraulic excavators. The three companies have been jointly advancing technology validation and business development for autonomous construction solutions, and the collaboration has now entered the commercial deployment phase in the U.S. market, where Komatsu autonomous machines are already operating at customer job sites. The solution offered through this partnership integrates Smart Construction–generated construction plans and target terrain data with AIM’s physical AI platform to enable autonomous operation. AIM’s technology can be retrofitted to existing dozers and hydraulic excavators, allowing customers to gradually introduce autonomous construction using their current fleets instead of replacing equipment with new machines.

Spacious Comfort Meets Superb Performance.

The Kubota R40’s superb working range and high-visibility cab redefine what’s possible in a wheel loader. Its impressive reach, higher rated operating capacity, improved stability and coupler options bring heavy-duty versatility to any job site. Factor in features like climate control, telematics, easy operation, and Kubota shockless ride—and you have a machine purpose built to get quality results.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

SPOTLIGHT

INTRODUCTIONS & UPDATES

Magni Telescopic Handlers

TILTING CAB ROTATING TELEHANDLER The RTH 17.151 TC is a new tilting cab version of Magni’s RTH 17.151 rotating telehandler. The cab can be tilted up to 21 degrees, providing operators with an optimal view during operations at height and when handling complex loads. It retains the performance of the standard model: a maximum lifting capacity of 17,600 pounds, a maximum lifting height of 150 feet 7 inches, and a maximum reach of 105 inches. The RTH 17.151 TC offers continuous 360-degree rotation and has telescopic scissor stabilizers. Integration of the TC-specific equipment hasn’t compromised mobility. Compared to the standard model, the TC version has a total unladen weight of 78,925 pounds, an increase of just 1,105 pounds. It maintains the same maximum travel speed of 16 mph.

Dynapac

ASPHALT ROLLER Dynapac has re-entered the 16-ton asphalt roller class with the CC7000 VI, a tandem roller designed for largescale paving applications. With an operating weight exceeding 32,000 pounds, the machine features newly engineered drums that deliver a static linear load of up to 211 pounds per linear inch to support compaction in demanding conditions. The roller is equipped with Dynapac’s Seismic Asphalt technology, which automatically adjusts vibration frequency based on material stiffness to optimize compaction while reducing energy consumption and manual adjustments. The operator station with rotating and sliding seat, controls, and display maintains visibility and ergonomics throughout the compaction process. A large-capacity water tank reduces refill downtime and supports productivity on longer paving jobs.

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

New Holland Construction

ELECTRIC MINI EXCAVATOR The E25X is a 2.5-ton electric mini excavator powered by a 102-volt lithium-ion battery with a 32.2-kWh gross capacity. An on-board 240-volt single-phase charger can recharge the battery from 0 to 100 percent in approximately nine hours, or from 20 to 80 percent in about five hours. Runtime ranges from four to eight hours. Weighing approximately 5,200 pounds in a standard ROPS configuration, the E25X offers an 8-foot digging depth. It has electro-hydraulic controls with Eco, Standard, and Power modes. A two-way blade with float supports grading applications, and the machine is compatible with a range of attachments, including hydraulic hammers, augers, breakers, mechanical thumbs, and buckets.

SAKAI America

SOIL COMPACTOR SAKAI has updated its SV544-1 Series 84-inch vibratory single-drum soil compactor with a new Cummins F3.8 148-hp Performance Series engine. The engine delivers a 14 percent increase in peak horsepower and a 23 percent increase in peak torque over the previous model. Peak torque is also available at lower engine speeds to improve responsiveness under load. The compactor offers an estimated 8 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and includes an Eco mode for additional fuel savings. It retains user-selectable traction control, a heavy-duty centre hitch, long-life isolators rated for up to 5,000 hours, and analog controls in place of touchscreen or multi-function panels.

Volvo Construction Equipment

SHORT-SWING EXCAVATOR The ECR255 is Volvo’s new 25-ton short-swing excavator designed for urban construction, utility, and infrastructure work in confined spaces. Replacing the ECR235E, it delivers a 7 percent increase in lifting capacity and up to 10 percent lower fuel consumption. The advanced electro-hydraulic control system includes engine speed regulation and a smart cooling system to support responsive, fuel-efficient operation. Volvo Active Control automates boom and bucket movements for faster, more accurate digging and grading, and a floating dozer blade and programmable boundary limits improve precision on complex job sites. The company says that the cab is about 20 percent larger than most short-swing excavator cabs.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

FOCUS: MACHINE CONTROL

WHAT’S NEW IN

MACHINE

Liebherr’s Generation 8 dozers are available with several tiers of machine control, including Free Grade, Definition Grade, and 3D Grade.

CONTROL? STREAMLINED INTEGRATION INTO EQUIPMENT AND MORE STANDARD AND AVAILABLE OPTIONS LOWER THE BARRIER TO ENTRY BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

FOCUS: MACHINE CONTROL

he transformative nature of machine control is difficult to overstate. When project timelines are tight and labour is simultaneously hard to find, there are limited ways to compensate for the productivity gap. Machine control addresses that shortfall by ensuring that work is done accurately and efficiently the first time. Small but meaningful advantages, such eliminating over- or under-digging and manual measurements, can be achieved with an entry-level 2D indicate system. The exceptional accuracy and efficiency of full 3D grade control paired with automation for complex earthworks is innovation that makes good operators great. Recognizing that the full 3D package is not suitable for every contractor, OEMs have made the entry level product easier to access and use. In 2026, 2D systems are often included as standard on new equipment, and 3D architecture is built into many machines at the factory, easing the way to a full 3D upgrade without the burden of extended downtime for an upfit. Systems have become easier to learn, and providers are offering solutions tailored to more machines and configurations, including compact equipment. Here’s what’s new in machine control for dozers, excavators, and motor graders.

MACHINE CONTROL UPDATES ARE INCLUSIVE OF MORE EQUIPMENT AND SERVE MORE EXPERIENCE LEVELS

At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, Topcon introduced a new machine control option for the cutting edge of rough grading equipment, including wheeled tractor-scrapers, tow-behind scrapers, box blades, and dozers. Topcon’s 3D-MC Edge is designed for efficient rough grading and bulk earthmoving, ensuring that the initial grade is on target the first time, easing the way for a quicker finish grading process. The company says that 3D-MC Edge is a simple entry into machine control, flexible to move between machines, and designed with novice machine control users in mind. Contractors and municipalities that have machines without grade control will find that this economical entry point helps them achieve rough grade without undercutting or overfilling. Updates to 3D-MC for excavators add new capability to Topcon’s platform. Slope Control makes tiltrotator use more efficient by automatically adjusting the excavator bucket’s tilt and rotation angles based on the digital design model. Automation of these functions reduces operator inputs, speeds up the process, and improves the finish quality of complex work. On busy job sites, vehicles, personnel, and equipment can block line-of-sight between robotic total stations and the excavator-mounted prism for 3D systems. To ensure uninterrupted operations, Topcon has added Hybrid Lock to 3D-MC; it works by switching the connection from local positioning system (LPS) tracking from the total station to global navigation satellite system (GNSS) tracking when line-of-sight is lost. According to Trimble, contractors using mini excavators with swing booms have been requesting a machine control solution that would give them precise location of the bucket’s cutting edge. Trimble has now added that mini excavator swing boom functionality to Earthworks. In addition to expanding to more machine makes and models, Trimble Earthworks support is also now available for select towed and wheeled tractor scrapers to optimize cutting and loading performance and more accurate material placement.

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

Unicontrol, a Denmark-based machine control provider that was acquired by U.S.-based Spectra Precision in 2024, is a smaller player that has been growing its presence in North America since introducing Unicontrol3D in 2022. Unicontrol’s philosophy is to provide straightforward, simple machine control systems, and it has been developing a series of OEM partnerships. In late 2025, it announced Unicontrol Easy Link, which facilitates simple Unicontrol3D installation on new Liebherr Generation 8 dozers, or as retrofit for Generation 8 machines already in the field. Volvo Construction Equipment recently announced that Unicontrol3D is now fully integrated with Volvo Active Control in North America, and all hardware comes preinstalled from the factory on Volvo excavators ordered with Volvo Co-Pilot with Dig Assist — the Unicontrol3D application just needs to be activated. Volvo calls Unicontrol3D a flexible, open system, and it integrates with any type of excavator, data format, and workflow, which is ideal for contractors operating mixed fleets.

OEMS SIMPLIFY THE ROUTE TO MACHINE CONTROL ON NEW EQUIPMENT LINES

One of the biggest developments in the last two years is the introduction of Komatsu’s first excavator model with IMC 3.0, the PC220LCi-12, and the subsequent preview of the second excavator model and first dozer model that will come with Komatsu’s advanced technology package, both expected to be available by late 2026. New to IMC 3.0 is expanded in-field design capability, an advanced payload meter, auto swing, advanced attachment settings, swing-to-line, travel-along-line, 3D boundary control, and auto stop control. IMC 3.0 is also designed to incorporate more new features via over-the-air updates. When introduced, the tight-tail-swing PC158USLCi-12 will be the smallest Komatsu excavator to come equipped with IMC technology, at roughly 18 tons, underscoring the desire for advanced technology on smaller machines that can operate in tight spaces. Highlights of IMC 3.0 for dozers, starting with the D61PXi-25, include Auto Steering, which holds the machine to a line when grading, and Temporary Blade Hold, which maintains blade position even when the machine loses GPS signal. CNH Industrial’s acquisition of Hemisphere GNSS in 2023 brought GNSS technology fully in-house for CASE Construction Equipment. This vertical ownership of every part of the machine control supply chain has allowed CASE to fully develop proprietary 2D and 3D systems from the ground up, including hardware, such as sensors, antennas, and receivers. At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, CASE announced that its in-house-developed 3D solution will be commercially available for large excavators in Q3 2026, including as aftermarket kits. CASE describes the upgrade from its 2D to 3D system as “plug and play” in the field, easing the process for contractors who want to evolve their machine control setup. With this in-house solution, CASE says it intends to lower the entry point for contractors who haven’t yet engaged with machine control, citing price as a key barrier. CASE excavator owners will be able to choose from the new CASE solution, or from other major providers, including Leica, Trimble, and Topcon, if they prefer. A hallmark of Liebherr’s Generation 8 equipment lines is the simplified integration of technology, including machine

As of 2025, Advanced 2D, including in-field design, is integrated into the standard Cat Grade with 2D package. Cat Grade with 3D is an available upgrade.

Trimble has added mini excavator swing boom functionality to Earthworks.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

FOCUS: MACHINE CONTROL control architecture, from the factory. Generation 8 dozers are available with several tiers of machine control, including Free Grade, Definition Grade, and 3D Grade. Free Grade, standard on the Generation 8 dozers, continuously stabilizes the blade in longitudinal and lateral directions, reducing the need for manual corrections. For greater capability, owners can choose the optional 2D Definition Grade, which adds automatic blade control for 2D grading. The operator can input target slopes and reference surfaces, and this option does not require GNSS or laser transmitters. For precision grading of more complex terrain profiles, contractors can upgrade to the full 3D Grade GNSS-based machine control system. In 2025, Liebherr introduced Free Modelling for dozers. This assistance system gives operators the ability to create and edit 3D models in the cab. It’s an efficient way to react to changing job site conditions in real-time and eliminates the risk of following outdated plans while reducing surveying needs. Liebherr and Leica announced factory integration of Leica’s sensor chain on Liebherr Generation 8 wheeled and crawler excavators in early 2026. Excavators can be ordered as 3D-ready or with full 3D machine control, including semi-automatic functions, from the factory. The Leica sensor chain also serves as the foundation of Liebherr’s integrated weighing and bucket fill assist features, and most Liebherr Generation 8 excavators come with Leica 2D grade control as standard. Caterpillar first offered the Cat Grade with 2D indicate system as standard on its next-generation excavators in 2018, and, as of 2025, Advanced 2D, including in-field design, is part of the standard Cat Grade with 2D package. The operator can easily adjust target depth and slope using the joysticks, touchscreen, or jog dial, and target grade with visual guidance plus height and depth are displayed. A Cat Grade 3D Ready option is available, and Cat Grade Assist automates boom, stick, and bucket movements, further simplifying inputs to hit grade. John Deere Construction & Forestry’s latest P-Tier and X-Tier dozers with EH controls include the entry level EZ Grade as standard; EZ Grade aids operators in manual grading by making small blade corrections. Dozers ordered with the SmartGrade Ready option come prepped from the factory with 2D grade control. Full John Deere SmartGrade for dozers is available with Topcon or Leica packages and includes capability for total-station control on job sites with limited GNSS coverage. John Deere introduced its new generation of excavators just ahead of CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026. All new mid-size P-Tier excavators now come with 2D grade control as standard and can be upgraded to full 3D SmartGrade, also with either Topcon or Leica. Eight new SmartGrade motor graders with factory-integrated-and-calibrated mastless grade control were also introduced in 2026. With the debut of the -9 Series excavators in North America earlier this year, DEVELON made Smart Control 2D and Machine Guidance 2D standard features from the factory, with 3D available as an upgrade. Smart Control 2D automates front swing and movements, and Machine Guidance 2D allows the operator to set reference points and input target depth and slope angle. HD Construction Equipment Hyundai North America’s new-generation HX excavators can be ordered 2D-ready with optional bucket assist, and Trimble and Hyundai announced a collaboration for Hyundai excavator owners to easily upgrade from the optional Hyundai 2D grade control to Trimble Earthworks 3D

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

Volvo CE recently announced that Unicontrol3D is now fully integrated with Volvo Active Control in North America.

on select excavators. Trimble Earthworks 3D includes Trimble’s automation capability. When in autos mode, the operator controls the stick and Trimble Earthworks controls the boom and bucket to achieve grade. The companies have also introduced a Trimble Ready option for the Hyundai HD130A dozer.

MACHINE CONTROL LEVELS THE PLAYING FIELD

While there is no doubt that machine control drives productivity in earthmoving operations, obstacles to adoption remain. Cost, complexity, and resistance from experienced operators are all cited as reasons not to get started. As a response, OEMs and service providers are making machine control easier to implement at every level, from basic to more sophisticated systems. Full integration eliminates risk of damage to external components, such as masts, and the transition of new equipment lines from pilot to EH controls is further easing the integration of machine control and automation. Encouraging experienced operators to try the technology is essential, as even the most talented operator can achieve incredible productivity gains. Their less experienced colleagues will appreciate that technology when they get in the cab. The pressures faced by contractors aren’t going away, but machine control can level the playing field — accurately and on schedule. HEG

REVERSIBLE PLATES THAT MAKE THE GRADE

Compaction challenges don’t have to be an uphill battle. Wacker Neuson’s next generation medium-weight reversible plates deliver consistent performance and improved gradeability in the 700 - 1,000 lb. operating class. What’s more, these models have the smarts to prove it. The integrated Bluetooth technology provides real-time insights into machine data, helping you optimize operation, monitor usage, and stay one step ahead on maintenance. The result? Efficiency and productivity from equipment that works as hard – and as intelligently – as you do. For more information, contact your local Wacker Neuson dealer.

www.wackerneuson.com

EARTHMOVING

AUTONOMY EXPANDS THE ROLE OF THE OPERATOR AUTONOMOUS RETROFIT KITS FOR ROLLERS AND ADTS FREE UP OPERATORS FOR MORE CRITICAL TASKS BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

hen labour is tight, contractors want their operators on the most critical tasks, but lower-skill work, such as soil compaction, still needs to be done. Autonomy is a potential solution to this problem. There is a perception that autonomy is complex and expensive to integrate into a fleet, particularly for smaller contractors. Bluelight Machines is lowering the barrier to autonomy with its autonomous retrofit kits, which allow contractors to easily and safely incorporate autonomy into their operations by converting the machines they already own. Smooth drum and padfoot rollers outfitted with the retrofit kits are now operating across North America, South America, Australia, and Asia. Applications include solar farms, DOT highway projects, mining operations, data centres, large-scale earthworks, and residential developments. Kits are compatible with select Dynapac, Cat, and Hamm rollers, and Bluelight has also introduced the technology for select Volvo and Cat articulated dump trucks.

SAFE, EASY-TO-INTEGRATE AUTONOMY THAT KEEPS LEARNING

Retrofit is quick — less than half a day — and, once the kit is installed and the Bluelight annual subscription is activated, managing the machine is simple via a smartphone, tablet, or desktop. Kits can easily be transferred between supported rollers and ADTs. Bluelight is a camera-based detection system that does not use Lidar, which bounces off dust particles, says Dick Zhang, CEO. The autonomous system is trained on hundreds of thousands of pictures using AI pattern recognition, also known as machine learning; however, it’s not good enough to just feed the system pictures of the same dozer, says Zhang. The training material needs variety in equipment sizes, brands, configurations, and colours, as well as times of day and environments.

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

Hundreds of Bluelight machines are now operating autonomously in the field, and, as those machines gather more data, they make the system smarter and more productive for all Bluelight users. Since Bluelight machines are operating on multiple continents, that growing repository of training material is increasingly diverse, capturing different equipment, job site types, and conditions. Zhang says that new data is trained on a GPU then put on a customer beta test fleet. It is fine-tuned over the first hundred to thousand hours before an update is made available over-the-air to all Bluelight-connected machines.

AUTONOMY EXPANDS THE ROLE OF THE OPERATOR

There is a common misconception that autonomy replaces skilled operators. “People think of autonomy, and they’ve got this vision of, wow, [the job site is] going to be this ghost town,” says Zhang. “That could not be more wrong.” Instead, autonomous machines facilitate the redistribution of labour to where it provides the most value, and it expands the skill sets of operators. Experienced operators are freed up to do more complex work, extend their expertise by supervising multiple autonomous machines, or operate a lead piece of equipment while supervising a buddy machine.

Bluelight Machines’ autonomous retrofit kits are compatible with select Dynapac, Cat, and Hamm rollers.

For example, a Bluelight-equipped autonomous roller is frequently buddied up with an operator in a dozer. The dozer operator can knock down fill while the roller follows behind to perform the compaction. Bluelight-equipped rollers also carry out independent, autonomous work, such as compaction of a large area, while overseen by a supervisor. Programming the workflow is simple. Through the Bluelight web portal, the supervisor can connect to the machine remotely, draw the work boundary for compaction, set the overlap and number of passes, and upload the job to the roller. Avoid zones within the work perimeter can also be added. Once the roller is lined up with the start point of the job, initiating autonomous compaction is as simple as dragging a slider on the web portal. The roller proceeds to complete the assigned work without additional intervention. A work boundary can also be set by either remotely or manually driving the roller around the perimeter of the intended compaction area. Everything within that zone can then be compacted autonomously. A supervisor can also create a work boundary by walking or driving the perimeter of the area with their smartphone. Because smartphone GPS is less accurate than the machine, the track will not be as precise and can have a margin of error of several feet. The system works in conjunction with compaction technologies, such as Dynapac Seismic and the Trimble ecosystem.

Bluelight CEO Dick Zhang demonstrated the retrofit kit on a Dynapac roller at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026.

BLUELIGHT HITS A BIG MILESTONE IN THE FIELD At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, Bluelight announced that retrofitted rollers have completed 1 billion square feet of autonomous compaction without a single job site injury, logging more than 300,000 object detections and 60,000 autonomous safety stops. The company says that the system has identified and halted for personnel, trucks, heavy equipment, traffic cones, and grade stakes. “It’s proof that autonomous construction is no longer a concept being tested in controlled environments,” says Zhang. “Our customers are running production sites every day with Bluelight systems detecting hazards, stopping for workers, and multiplying what a single operator can accomplish.” Zhang acknowledges that shifting to autonomy can be hard for some operators. “A number of times we’ve just installed the auto roller, we’ve taken the guy out of the seat, and then they see the thing rolling without anybody in the seat . . . it’s an emotional, passionate reaction,” Zhang says. “But when you think about operating construction equipment, and you hear the numbers . . . we only ever have fewer and fewer people.” Autonomy is not removing skilled operators from the job site; instead, it is evolving the role of the operator. Zhang concludes, “They show up, and they want to produce for their team. We are enabling them to do more.” HEG SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

EARTHMOVING

motor graders

EQUIPMENT INSIGHT & TRENDS

Cat’s 160 motor grader.

otor graders are among the most skill-intensive machines on the job site. Achieving a smooth, accurate finish requires continuous coordination of steering, articulation, blade position, and machine speed. This is a skill that typically develops through years of experience. As contractors face ongoing labour shortages and an influx of less-experienced operators, OEMs are introducing technologies that simplify machine operation without compromising precision. Rather than replacing operator skill, the latest motor graders reduce operator workload through automation, integrated grade control, improved visibility, and more intuitive controls. These machines are easier to learn, more comfortable to operate, and capable of delivering consistent results with fewer manual inputs. Across the latest generation of machines, OEMs are simplifying oper-

ation in different ways while pursuing the same objective: helping operators achieve precision with less effort.

CATERPILLAR 150 AND 160

Caterpillar has expanded its Next Generation motor grader platform with the redesigned Cat 150 and 160, featuring updates focused on operator ergonomics and streamlined controls. The most significant update is the introduction of joystick controls, which are standard on the 160 and optional on the 150. The two three-axis joysticks consolidate steering, transmission, directional travel, throttle, and mouldboard functions into a single control system, reducing the hand and arm movement required compared to a traditional steering wheel and lever configuration. Cat also introduced a dedicated finish

gear that allows slower, more precise machine control during final grading passes. The redesigned cab complements the simplified controls with larger windows that improve sightlines to the mouldboard and front tires. A centralized 10inch touchscreen serves as the interface for optional technologies, including Cat Grade; integrated front, rear, and 360-degree cameras; and Cat’s People Detection system.

JOHN DEERE CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY P-TIER LINEUP

John Deere’s latest P-Tier motor graders combine integrated grade control with automation features that reduce repetitive operator adjustments throughout the grading process. Next Generation SmartGrade allows operators to access both 2D and 3D grade control through

John Deere’s 670 P-Tier motor grader.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

EARTHMOVING

CASE’s GR935 motor grader.

a single 10.1-inch touchscreen and supports upgrade paths for either Topcon or Leica positioning systems. Standard automation features include blade flip, auto articulation, and cutting edge wear monitoring. The cutting edge wear feature allows operators to track blade wear and plan edge replacement before it affects grading performance. Intelligent Blade Control helps maintain a level blade throughout grading operations, and SmartSaddle automatically positions the blade in the optimal saddle position with the push of a button. Standard cross slope technology also offers multiple operating modes to accommodate different grading applications and operator preferences. John Deere also redesigned the cab with updated seating, adjustable armrests, centralized controls, and improved display layouts to enhance operator comfort. Optional Advanced Vision camera systems provide additional visibility around the machine, helping operators maintain situational awareness in confined or busy work environments.

CASE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT GR SERIES

CASE’s new GR Series motor graders — the GR925, GR930, and GR935 — leverage several technologies designed to reduce operator inputs while improving grading precision. Standard electro-hydraulic controls provide responsive control across all three models, while the GR925 and GR930 also offer mechanical controls for operators who prefer a more traditional feel. The GR930 and GR935 feature a continuously variable transmission that delivers smooth, uninterrupted power without conventional gear shifting. CASE also incorporates on-board guidance, automatic blade control, and GNSS navigation through its Advanced Smart Features to help operators achieve more accurate grades with fewer manual adjustments. The new graders feature a standard Protected Circle sealed slew bearing, which is designed to improve blade accuracy while reducing wear and maintenance, and an optional Blade Impact Absorption System that helps protect the mouldboard from unexpected impacts.

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

Rather than replacing operator skill, the latest motor graders reduce operator workload through automation, integrated grade control, improved visibility, and more intuitive controls.

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FIELD REPORT

CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION ON DISPLAY AT CSPI 2026 IN JAPAN BY KAITLYN TILL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

SPI, one of Japan’s largest trade shows dedicated to the construction industry, held its 8th annual event in Chiba, Japan, from June 17 to 20. The 2026 edition was the largest iteration of the show yet, with more than 600 exhibitors filling all eight halls and more than 60,000 square metres of floor space in the Makuhari Messe convention centre, in addition to an outdoor demonstration area. Attendance surpassed 54,000.

The CSPI 2026 opening ceremony.

“Productivity improvement is a big theme of the whole industry,” said Takahiro Takagi, CSPI 2026 show organizer. In Japan, construction industry improvements are collaborative, with the government facilitating the speed of development through its i-Construction initiative, which promotes use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in construction, Takagi explained. This has accelerated Japanese construction innovation over the past decade, and that rate of innovation is now reflected in the growth of CSPI. Yanmar’s ViO30-7 Blade 3DMC mini excavator.

EXCAVATORS WITH PRECISION DOZING CAPABILITY KOBELCO’s unique Blade Runner, an excavator with 6-way dozer blade, has been available for a few years now, and at CSPI the company showed that machine outfitted with precision grading technology. Yanmar displayed a mini excavator with a similar concept, but in a much smaller size class. Compact track loaders are less popular in Japan than North America, and small dozers have historically been preferred. However, there are currently fewer small dozer models on the market. Yanmar’s 3-ton ViO30-7 Blade 3DMC mini excavator, featuring a dozer blade with precision grading technology, is intended to fill that gap.

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

CSPI is focused on innovation that drives the Japanese construction industry forward, with an emphasis on technology and equipment solutions that address the skilled labour shortage, an aging workforce, productivity gaps, and carbon emissions. Notable trends at the 2026 show included remote operation, job site connectivity, electrification, precision technologies, and efficient equipment utilization. Here are some highlights from CSPI 2026.

Morooka’s remote-contolled tracked carrier demonstration.

Hitachi’s Ready to Be Robot excavator.

REMOTE OPERATION FOR HAZARDOUS WORK Remote operation is useful in Japan’s steep terrain and for hazardous work, such as disaster recovery after earthquakes. There were plenty of solutions — and demonstrations — at CSPI. Hitachi showed its remote-operated Ready to Be Robot (RBT) hydraulic excavators. These machines are designed to be ready for more automation upgrades as technology develops. Visitors could use Komatsu’s Smart Construction teleoperation station to execute earthworks tasks on a remote job site. Operating stations were set up in a van in the outdoor demonstration

area and at Komatsu’s indoor booth to demonstrate portability. Morooka demonstrated its remote-controlled tracked carrier throughout the week. From Morooka’s indoor booth, an operator controlled a crawler carrier out on the demonstration lot. Morooka notes that this non-line-of-sight solution can keep operators out of dangerous heat during hotter months. Morooka’s remote control for tracked carriers is not commercially available yet — the company is currently taking feedback from customers.

JAPAN LEADS CONNECTED JOB SITE SOLUTIONS DEVELOPMENT

Komatsu’s PC01E electric micro excavator.

ELECTRIFICATION ACROSS SIZE CLASSES Honda’s swappable battery system was used to power many of the electric compact machines at CSPI. Yanmar showed a C12Re electric dumper prototype alongside an SV08e electric mini excavator, both powered by the Honda Mobile Power Pack e (MPP). Other compatible machines on display included Komatsu’s smallest excavator, the PC01E, and SAKAI’s walk-behind electric tandem roller, the HV620 evo. This battery solution addresses concerns over equipment downtime due to charging. When the battery runs out of power, the operator simply has to swap the depleted module for a fully charged one. Electrification wasn’t limited to mini and compact equipment: Hitachi, Tadano, and XCMG were among OEMs displaying larger electric solutions for earthmoving, lift, and material handling applications.

Connected job site solutions drive productivity gains in construction, and their development in Japan has been facilitated by the i-Construction framework. Topcon demonstrated its Sitelink 3D real-time productivity dashboard, which is a comprehensive remote job site management tool that gives managers up-to-date insight into operations, including as-built data, and allows them to deliver job site information to operators. At its indoor CSPI booth, Topcon demonstrated this powerful tool by showing up-to-date data on equipment operating at its outdoor demonstration area. Smart Construction is Komatsu’s digital ecosystem that gathers all job site information in one place. Komatsu was an early leader in incorporating ICT into equipment, and, in alignment with the i-Construction program, has been evolving the Smart Construction platform since 2015. ICT Stage I focused on streamlining construction processes; now, in Stage II, data from the entire job site is used to optimize the project plan in advance and update it during construction.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

FIELD REPORT

Tiltrotators from all of the major providers were demonstrated outdoors at CSPI 2026.

SPECIALIZED ATTACHMENTS AND TILTROTATORS

Okada showed its attachment solution for lifting concrete tetrapods.

Japanese job sites often have limited space and require smaller machines to complete work. Throughout the show, application-specific attachments and quick couplers were used to demonstrate the efficiency of compact machines, particularly excavators. Specialty attachments from Japanese OEMs were also on display. Outdoors, attachment manufacturer Okada demonstrated an unusual attachment that is used to handle the large concrete tetrapods that reinforce Japanese shorelines. At its indoor display, Okada showed new attachments for forestry and sawmill work, including a saw-equipped log grapple for excavators. NPK focused on design innovation that has allowed it to make stronger demolition attachments for smaller carriers. All of the major European tiltrotator manufacturers were present at CSPI, demonstrating the latest tiltrotator technology on compact and mid-size excavators at the outdoor exhibition area. The Open-S Alliance used CSPI to announce the expansion of the global automatic quick coupler industry standard to the OS40 size for the 2- to 7-tonne excavator segment.

CSPI WILL RETURN IN 2027 Next year’s show is currently accepting exhibitor registration. Organizers expect continued steady growth in the visitor count, and invite North American visitors to attend the 2027 edition. “There is frequent progress in construction, and every year there is something new to see,” Takagi said. “We look forward to having attendees from overseas see Japanese technology.” CSPI 2027 will run from June 23 to 26 at the Makuhari Messe convention centre in Chiba, Japan. Learn more at cspi-expo.com. HEG

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

Topcon’s mascots greeted attendees at CSPI 2026.

COMPACT EQUIPMENT

NEW HOLLAND CONSTRUCTION

THREE NEW COMPACT WHEEL LOADERS

ew Holland Construction has expanded its D-Series compact wheel loader lineup, adding the mid-size-frame W70D, W80D, and W80D Long Reach. The new models follow the W100D, which was introduced in 2025 and remains the largest machine in the lineup. Built for construction, landscaping, material handling, and agriculture applications, these wheel loaders provide excellent manoeuvrability in confined spaces while minimizing ground disturbance. With travel speeds of up to 25 mph, they can move quickly between work areas. A hydraulic skid-steer-style coupler allows operators to conveniently

New Holland’s W80D compact wheel loader.

YANMAR COMPACT EQUIPMENT NORTH AMERICA

SMALL-FRAME COMPACT TRACK LOADERS WITH A LIGHT FOOTPRINT

anmar Compact Equipment North America’s new small-frame TL25RP, TL40RP, and TL50RP compact track loaders are built for applications that require exceptional flotation, low ground pressure, and dependable traction. The company says that compact dimensions, an operator-focused design, and Yanmar diesel power will help contractors work more productively across a wide range of applications, including construction, landscaping, rental, and land management. These three models are the first phase of Yanmar’s expanding ASV Posi-Track CTL lineup. The ASV Posi-Track fully suspended torsion-axle undercarriage complements Yanmar’s existing steel-embedded CTLs, giving contractors greater flexibility to select the machine best-suited to their terrain, application, and operating environment.

TL25RP

Designed for work where access and surface protection are essential, the TL25RP combines a compact 48-inchwide footprint with the ASV Posi-Track undercarriage system to deliver a smooth ride, low ground pressure, and dependable traction across soft and uneven terrain. Ideal for landscapers, rental operators, and light construction crews, it offers exceptional manoeuvrability without compromising productivity. A cold-weather cab is available.

TL40RP

The TL40RP builds on the same compact platform with increased horsepower, rated operating capacity, and auxiliary hydraulic performance, enabling operators to tackle a broader range of applications while maintaining manoeuvrability. Its fully suspended undercarriage

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

delivers smooth operation, dependable traction, and confident performance across varied ground conditions, making it well-suited for landscaping, construction, property maintenance, and rental applications. An all-weather cab is available.

TL50RP

Engineered for more demanding applications, the TL50RP delivers increased lifting capability, hydraulic performance, and horsepower while maintaining a compact footprint and manoeuvrability. The ASV Posi-Track undercarriage system and 15-inch tracks distribute machine weight across a larger ground contact area, helping operators maintain productivity while minimizing ground disturbance on sensitive surfaces. It is ideal for construction, land management, snow removal, and rental applications.

switch attachments from inside the cab, and compatibility with a wide range of attachments, including buckets, pallet forks, tree spades, and bale spears, allows contractors and landscapers to use a single machine for multiple applications throughout the workday. Construction crews can utilize the new wheel loaders for truck loading, pallet handling, and material movement across job sites. They can also be equipped for winter snow removal. The completely redesigned cab has a heated air-ride seat with integrated multi-function joystick controls mounted directly to it. The controls move with the operator as

the seat absorbs ground bumps and vibrations, which helps them maintain consistent operating control while reducing fatigue. Plenty of standard features streamline repetitive tasks and improve efficiency. These include ride control, cruise control, creep mode, return-to-dig, return-to-dump, and return-to-travel. Operators can also customize boom and bucket response speeds to match their experience levels and application requirements. Advanced hydraulics deliver smooth, precise operation through flow sharing and load-sensing capabilities that adjust hydraulic flow for increased efficiency and fuel savings.

To increase visibility, New Holland has lowered the front console, made the front windshield larger, and improved sightlines to the attachment and work area. A standard rear-view camera and backup alarm improve awareness around the machine, while the LED lighting package and available four-corner strobe kit provide visibility in lowlight conditions. A new monitor mounted on the right-side A-pillar places live machine metrics and information within the operator’s line of sight, and the right-side sliding window and door allow the operator to easily interact with crew members without leaving the cab.

Yanmar’s TL50RP compact track loader.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

COMPACT EQUIPMENT

MULCHING ATTACHMENTS

FOR EFFICIENT PROCESSING OF SMALL TREES, BRUSH, AND STUMPS

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

LOFTNESS BATTLE AX MULCHING HEADS

Loftness Battle Ax mulching heads for SSLs and CTLs feature a unique rotor with built-in depth gauges and a twostage cutting chamber that thoroughly processes material on two separate shear bars. The L Series for low-flow loaders weighs up to 10,300 pounds with 15 to 35.9 GPM and 30 to 70 hydraulic horsepower. A fixed-displacement gear motor provides reliable performance. The 13.5-inch-diameter rotor can be equipped with Quadco planer blades, four-point beaver teeth, or double carbide cutting teeth. The S Series for high-flow loaders with 28 to 62.9 GPM and 50 to 150 hydraulic horsepower can be fitted with either a fixed-displacement gear motor or a V-Drive variable-displacement piston motor, which automatically shifts the rotor RPM from the highest speed to a lower range for increased torque, as needed. The 17-inch-diameter rotor can be equipped with Quadco planer blades, hard-surface Quadco blades, or standard carbide cutting teeth.

FAE BL0/EX-100 FIXED-TOOTH MULCHER

The BL0/EX-100 for 5-ton excavators features bite limiter technology. This fixed-tooth mulcher is capable of shredding light vegetation, shrubs, and trees up to 3 inches in diameter. The BL0/EX-100 can be equipped with BL/MINI blades or C/3/MINI teeth. The bite limiter rotor comes with wear-resistant steel profiles that limit the reach (bite) of the teeth. This cuts down on power demand and encourages a consistent working speed. It also minimizes rotor stalling and helps optimize fuel consumption. The attachment’s direct-drive motor minimizes maintenance and keeps the attachment compact for better manoeuvrability. The head’s clean profile and compact build are further enabled by the hydraulic block with flow regulator valve built into the motor, as well as the thumb bracket in the frame.

DIAMOND MOWERS DRUM MULCHER PRO X2

Diamond Mowers’ Drum Mulcher Pro X2 is available in open drum (OD) and depth control (DC) profiles. The attachment is available with a 60-inch or 72-inch cutting width and can process material up to 9 inches in diameter. The DC model comes standard with edge-hardened steel teeth. Offering superior processing efficiency and durability, these teeth have taller paddles to ingest more material for a more comprehensive and cleaner mulch on the first pass. The OD model comes with twin maul carbide teeth, which are suited to heavy ground engagement and rugged terrain. Both platforms can also accommodate a mix of twin maul and edge steel teeth to strike a balance between cutting performance and control for maximum productivity, minimal wear, and lower operational costs.

BLUE DIAMOND ATTACHMENTS HEAVY-DUTY DRUM MULCHER

Blue Diamond Attachments’ heavy-duty drum mulcher is available in a variety of configurations for low- and high-flow SSLs and CTLs, with hydraulic range flow from 22 to 46 GPM. This 60-inch drum mulcher is suited to land clearing and maintenance applications, including mulching small trees and large branches and grinding stumps to a high-quality finish. A choice of carbide or reversible chipping teeth is available. The attachment features a standard hydraulic gate for improved material flow control, multiple hydraulic connection options with 3-line or 5-line configurations, compatibility with either 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch couplers, and high-strength steel construction for durability in demanding conditions. The rotor with replaceable shafts and fixed teeth in helical position with P-CUT bite limiters provides efficient cutting while controlling material size.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

AGGREGATES

John Deere’s 904 X-Tier wheel loader.

JOHN DEERE CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY

PRODUCTION CLASS X-TIER WHEEL LOADERS

ohn Deere’s 844 and 904 X-Tier wheel loaders deliver electrified drivetrain technology, intelligent machine controls, and optional operator awareness features tailored to high-production operations that need to maximize material movement while reducing fuel burn. Both models feature the John Deere Electric Variable Transmission (EVT). John Deere says that this advanced system replaces traditional drivetrain constraints with electronically managed power to provide smoother operation, faster response, and optimized efficiency across demanding applications compared to its P-Tier wheel loaders. Operators will appreciate simplified inputs and consistent power from the EVT, which enables single-pedal control and decouples hydraulic performance from engine speed. Pile Slip Assist helps improve traction and bucket fill, and larger high-strength-steel buckets allow operators to move more material with every pass. Together, these features reduce tire wear and its associated costs. X-Tier loaders have two operating modes that are designed to maximize efficiency without sacrificing output. Standard Mode offers up to 15 percent fuel savings. Performance Mode delivers up to a 5 percent productivity increase for high-demand applications. John Deere says that these combined gains help reduce

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

total cost of ownership by up to 4 percent compared to previous models. Optional Advanced Vision System (AVS) and Advanced Object Detection support the operator’s job site awareness. AVS expands side and rear visibility beyond conventional mirrors, with two digital cameras installed on the side-view mirrors to widen the field of view, while dynamic reversal projected path lines help operators visualize the machine’s reverse path based on articulation. These side views along with the rearview camera are integrated into a dedicated single display within the cab. “In high-production, harsh environments, every pass and cycle matters,” says Colton Kreber, marketing manager, John Deere. “Our new X-Tier wheel loader models are designed to help customers load faster, carry more, and maintain consistent performance where it matters most. Whether they’re working in the pile or loading trucks, they’ll see strong performance, exceptional traction, and highly efficient cycles throughout the day.” The 844 and 904 models are supported by John Deere Operations Center, remote diagnostics, and a range of service and maintenance plans. They come with five-year/15,000-hour electric-drive components coverage for qualified electronic-drive components.

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GLOBAL EVENTS

AGGREGATES

BEYOND WEAR LIFE HOW GET DESIGN IS EVOLVING TO SUPPORT UPTIME, SAFETY, AND PRODUCTIVITY BY MEGHAN BARTON, SENIOR WRITER

round-engaging tools (GET) operate at the front line of excavation and loading, absorbing the abrasion and impact associated with moving material. As sacrificial wear components, bucket teeth are designed to be replaced. But while wear life remains an important measure of performance, manufacturers are now looking beyond durability. Contractors are under pressure to maximize machine utilization, reduce maintenance downtime, and improve job site safety. With its new Vertasys tooth system, ESCO is evolving wearpart design to address these pressures. Developed over five years and validated through extensive analytical, laboratory, and field testing, the system is designed to improve wear life while simplifying maintenance and reducing the operational disruptions associated with tooth replacement. “We are critically focused on making sure these teeth last as long as possible,” says Casey Springer, senior director of product development at ESCO. “We are reducing the number of maintenance intervals that our customers are subjected to so that machines can stay active in digging as opposed to [being] down for preventive maintenance.”

UPTIME STARTS WITH WEAR LIFE

For contractors, wear parts are often evaluated based on how long they last in service. Longer-lasting teeth reduce replacement frequency, minimize planned maintenance events, and help keep equipment productive. According to Springer, the Vertasys system is the next-generation successor to ESCO’s Ultralok system. Although Ultralok continues to be manufactured and supported by ESCO, the company is encouraging customers to adopt the Vertasys system, which incorporates a stronger nose design allowing engineers to reduce the size of the nose and allocate more wear material into the tooth itself. The result is a longer-lasting tooth that doesn’t sacrifice reliability. Compared to its Ultralok system, ESCO reports a 10 to 12 percent increase in tooth life. That may seem incremental, but across a fleet operating in abrasive applications, even modest improvements can reduce the number of maintenance intervals required over the course of a year. The development process behind those gains was extensive. During the first year of the program, ESCO benchmarked its own legacy systems, evaluated competing products, and gathered customer feedback. The company then generated dozens

40 heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

of design concepts before narrowing the field and conducting laboratory and field testing. “This system [has] over 20,000 hours of field trial under its belt across 10 different sites, and a variety of different applications from super cold in [Atlantic] Canada to blazing hot in Arizona,” says Springer. “So we’ve really vetted this across the depth and breadth of the types of applications that our customers are likely to encounter.”

BETTER TOOTH DESIGN MAKES MAINTENANCE EASIER AND SAFER

The improved tooth design is not only about extending component life to reduce downtime. It is also about making maintenance events faster, simpler, and safer when they do occur. Routine tooth replacement can require workers to release locks and remove worn components from large buckets, often in tight spaces between adapters. In those conditions, tool control matters. As a result, serviceability has become an important part of GET design, with manufacturers looking at tool access, ergonomics, and the number of steps required during routine replacement. Springer says ESCO moved away from the pry bar used with its Ultralok system because pry bars can slip during service, creating a safety risk for the person working on the bucket. Instead, Vertasys incorporates a vertically accessible locking system that replaces the traditional pry-bar-style servicing methods with a hex tool designed to improve control during tooth changes. The system also integrates the lock directly into

the tooth, reducing the number of separate components that must be managed during maintenance. According to Springer, minimizing maintenance interactions was a key objective during development. “[Vertasys] reduces the number of touch points that an operator or maintenance personnel needs to engage with the tooth system, and each one of those is a potential for injury.”

ENGINEERED BEYOND THE WEAR SURFACE

Serviceability has become an important part of GET design, with manufacturers looking at tool access, ergonomics, and the number of steps required during routine replacement.

The development of Vertasys reflects a broader shift in how GET systems are engineered. Throughout the five-year process, engineers evaluated not only wear performance and structural durability, but also how customers interact with the system throughout its life cycle. That included service procedures, lock accessibility, fit and retention characteristics, and overall ease of maintenance. The result is a product designed to balance durability, reliability, and usability. That same philosophy extends beyond the contractor. ESCO also redesigned portions of the adapter system to simplify inventory management for dealers and reduce fabrication time for bucket manufacturers. Standardized adapter configurations can reduce inventory requirements, while revised weld geometries are intended to streamline bucket production and better accommodate robotic welding processes. Those changes reflect a growing recognition that productivity improvements can occur throughout the equipment value chain, not just on the job site. For ESCO, the goal was to create measurable value for everyone involved in the system. “We’re really trying to make sure that there’s adequate incremental value for end customers, dealers, and bucket manufacturers,” says Springer. HEG

The Vertasys tooth system is designed to improve wear life while simplifying maintenance and reducing the operational disruptions associated with tooth replacement.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

AGGREGATES

KLEEMANN WINS SAFETY AWARD

he International Social Security Association (ISSA) has recognized Kleemann’s Lock & Turn Quick Access safety solution for the MOBIREX MR 100 NEO/ NEOe impact crusher. This system reduces risk to operators and simplifies access to the crushing chamber. The Safety Award of the ISSA Section on Machine and System Safety honours innovations that demonstrably improve occupational safety. Evaluation criteria include unique features, the risk reduction achieved, and ergonomic aspects. The ISSA jury noted that the Kleemann solution both increases safety and simplifies workflows. The Lock & Turn Quick Access system, which is standard on the MOBIREX MR 100 NEO, gives operators push-button access to the crusher unit housing. It can only be opened after the rotor has come to a complete standstill. This addresses a significant hazard of impact crusher operation: access to the crushing chamber during or immediately after machine operation. Opening a crusher’s housing typically requires the operator to manually loosen multiple bolted connections, mostly in hard-to-reach areas, which is time consuming and poses risk to the operator. Lock & Turn Quick Access eliminates these steps, and any material bridging can be cleared quickly.

WIth Lock & Turn Quick Access, the operator can open and close the crusher housing with the push of a button.

“Our Lock & Turn Quick Access allows our customers to open the crusher very quickly at the push of a button. This takes a mere 30 seconds. The operator thus has a full view of the crushing chamber very quickly and without any manual intervention at all. A blow bar replacement, for example, is extremely convenient,” says Laurin Winter, product management for mobile impact crushers at Kleemann.

MORE SPACE MORE PURPOSE The UNDERHOOD® 70 delivers up to 70 CFM at 100% duty cycle while freeing up to 25 cubic feet of deck space and reducing truck GVW by up to 260 lb. It gives service truck operators continuous compressed air without sacrificing valuable room for tools, equipment and materials.

“We choose to use UNDERHOOD compressors over others due to space limitations as well as simplicity.” - Ryan Conley, City of Columbus Division of Water

Read full job story:

VMACAIR.com/UNDERHOOD-Columbus

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

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DEMOLITION & RECYCLING

KOBELCO’s new SK1300DLC-11 demolition excavator is purpose-built for building demolition that requires using large tools at great height.

44 heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

KOBELCO

DEMOLITION EXCAVATOR REACHES UP TO 130 FEET

OBELCO’s massive new SK1300DLC-11 demolition excavator can be operated in a wide range of boom and arm configurations and is purpose-built for building demolition that requires using large tools at great height. It is powered by a 15.7-litre, 512-hp Isuzu Tier 4 Final engine. Maximum reach is 130 feet, and the machine comes with a separate demo digging front, three-piece high-reach, and four-piece high-reach multi-configuration front attachment. The machine’s mass operating weight is 302,000 pounds, but it can be disassembled for easy transportation. The minimum transport weight of the base machine without the counterweight is 134,000 pounds, and no single component exceeds 39,800 pounds. The high-reach attachment comes with transport and storage stands, water spray system, electronic on-board lubrication system, quickhitch piping, boom and arm safety valves, two-piece removable layered counterweight, and removable track system with remote trans-lifter. Additional features include energy saving ECO-Mode, in-cab hydraulic pressure release, combination rotation and nibbler breaker with proportional hand controls, case drain line and filter, reversible fan, and unlimited power boost mode (for separate boom attachment). Operators will appreciate that the ergonomic pilot levers move horizontally without arching of the wrist

The KOBELCO SK1300DLC-11 comes with a separate demo digging front, three-piece high-reach, and four-piece high-reach multi-configuration front attachment.

while also providing shorter lever strokes to deliver swifter, more precise movement. The SK1300DLC-11 is loaded with safety features. The sound-suppressed 30-degree tilting cab comes with an emergency lowering system. It also includes a 270-degree camera system with switchable rear-under-view or high-reach attachment view. Rear-view mirrors, LED work lights, rear swing flashers, demolition Level

II FOPS guard and bar type front guard, P5A safety glass, falling object deflector, cab interference prevention system, stability tip-over warning, and PA speaker system for hands-free communication are included. Air conditioning and heating will keep operators comfortable. On the rightside console there is a jog dial that integrates multiple functions into a single user interface with the 10-inch

colour monitor, which provides valuable information, including work modes, maintenance intervals, and fuel consumption. The cab is equipped with an FM/AM, AUX, Bluetooth, hands-free telephone radio; smartphone holder; USB charger; and 12volt power outlet. KOBELCO offers a standard limited full machine warranty of three years or 3,000 hours and a five-year or 3,000-hour engine emission warranty.

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

DEMOLITION & RECYCLING

Operators can change tooth sets instead of swapping jaws on the Fortress FC-75 concrete demolition processor.

SHEARCORE

CONCRETE PROCESSOR WITH MODULAR TOOTH SYSTEM

he FC-75 concrete demolition processor features the Fortress modular tooth system, a design that replaces traditional multi-jaw configurations with a single, adaptable processor. By allowing operators to configure interchangeable tooth sets on a fixed jaw structure, the FC-75 eliminates the need for multiple attachments or complex jaw swaps. This enables seamless transitions between primary demolition, secondary pulverizing, and material processing. Weighing approximately 14,500 pounds and designed for carriers starting at 34 tonnes (second member) or 57 tonnes (third member), the FC-75 delivers the power and reach required for modern demolition projects while maintaining operational flexibility. Additional advantages of the FC-75 include tight tolerances that enable effective tip-based rebar cutting, even with pulverizer teeth; long cutting knives that process large reinforcements, including beams; an apexed jaw design that improves

heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

material capture at the throat; and bypassing teeth that simplify sorting and reduce rehandling. An active pivot greasing system reduces wear on critical components while enhancing reliability in harsh working conditions. Oversized access panels, a simplified internal layout, and rebuildable components ensure faster maintenance and longer equipment life. A robust super-structure, machined from high-thickness plate and engineered to minimize critical weld seams, provides durability and consistent force transfer. The FC-75’s modular tooth system is also available on the larger FC-95, extending the same benefits to high-capacity applications. “Contractors have long faced inefficiencies caused by equipment changeovers and redundant tooling,” says Mark Baltes, vice president of sales and marketing. “The FC-75 was designed to solve that problem, delivering a single, flexible solution that aligns with real-world demolition demands.”

MAINTENANCE

THE NEXTGENERATION MECHANICAL CAREER TAHLTAN NATION DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PARTNERS WITH FINNING CANADA TO DEVELOP ON-SITE UNDERCARRIAGE WEAR SPECIALIST ROLE Austin Carlick-Beck is TNDC’s first undercarriage wear specialist.

rack assemblies are the most expensive wear items on dozers and excavators, and they require regular measuring to forecast replacement timing. Without regular measurements, that timing becomes guesswork that risks unplanned downtime and rushed parts orders and maintenance. This measurement work requires a physical presence, not remote monitoring. For heavy earthworks operations that support mine operators in remote Northwest British Columbia, regular measurement is complicated by the long travel times for dealer technicians to reach job sites. Tahltan Territory is home to approximately 70 percent of B.C.’s resource-rich Golden Triangle. Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC), the business arm of the Tahltan Nation, serves as the primary contractor working on the Red Chris Tailings Impoundment Area construction at the Red Chris mine, operated by Newmont Corporation. TNDC also supports the site with block cave project development, mill operations, site services, road maintenance, and exploration. Historically, Finning Canada, TNDC’s

equipment dealer, scheduled representatives to visit to perform track assembly measurements. But, as TNDC’s fleet grew to 38 tracked machines, they identified the opportunity for an existing TNDC employee to regularly measure undercarriage components and ground engaging tools, including bucket teeth, cutting edges, and anything that bolts onto a bucket or blade.

FROM LABOURER TO UNDERCARRIAGE WEAR SPECIALIST

Anthony Smaniotto, TNDC’s fleet manager, determined that Tahltan Nation member Austin Carlick-Beck, an enthusiastic and highly skilled technician who manages, services, and repairs specialized tires used in mining and construction, was ideal for the job. CarlickBeck started with TNDC in March 2024 as a labourer on the mechanical team, bringing experience from Kal Tire. With formal training and certification, Carlick-Beck continued to take on a more focused role as an off-the-road (OTR) tire specialist, certified by the Tire Industry Association, making him one of

48 heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

TNDC’s resident tire experts. The learning curve for this new role went beyond technical skills to professional accountability and embracing new expectations. The transition involved training and hands-on mentoring by a Finning representative over several months, and, in May 2025, Carlick-Beck travelled to Edmonton for formal wear specialist training with Caterpillar — the same training that Finning technicians receive. Today, Carlick-Beck is TNDC’s first undercarriage wear specialist, and he provides service throughout the Golden Triangle. The arrangement works as a contracted service with Carlick-Beck holding a dual role between TNDC and Finning. He works a two-week-on/two-week-off rotation, dedicating three to four days per cycle to wear measurements. He is proficient at using ultrasonic measuring devices, interpreting wear patterns, and forecasting replacements. On dozers from D6 to D10, he watches particularly for cracks on the track frame, a common failure point if not caught early. The new role is an experience that Carlick-Beck has been relishing. “I like going to the pit and working

I really enjoy learning something different, new tools, trying things out. Austin Carlick-Beck Undercarriage Wear Specialist, TNDC

ON OR OFF HIGHWAY WE WILL KEEP YOUR EQUIPMENT MOVING SCAN HERE

TO LEARN MORE on big equipment — 793 haul trucks, 994 loaders, D10s, D8s, excavators,” Carlick-Beck says. “I really enjoy learning something different, new tools, trying things out. Working with Finning’s team of wear specialists has made it easier to pick up the job because there’s someone who shows me what to do and who can answer questions.” Regular wear part measurement has allowed TNDC to move from reactive maintenance to predictive planning. These accurate wear forecasts allow Finning to order replacement tracks and components months in advance based on actual data, which avoids expedited shipping and ensures parts availability.

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For TNDC, Finning’s development of the wear specialist role is the latest contribution that has elevated their status from mere supplier to a trusted partner that views business relationships as something beyond transactional equipment sales.

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MAINTENANCE

Carlick-Beck is proficient at using ultrasonic measuring devices, interpreting wear patterns, and forecasting replacements.

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heavyequipmentguide.ca | SEPTEMBER 2026

Over eight years, the partnership has evolved into a rich relationship, and Finning has backed TNDC’s investment growth in its Caterpillar fleet from 20 percent to 98 percent, with maintenance programs and support as well as innovative training opportunities for Tahltans. This includes the TNDC Mobile Training Centre. TNDC purchased a mobile trailer that it has outfitted with four simulators (articulated haul truck, dozer, excavator, and loader) provided by Finning. It’s used at the Red Chris mine for heavy equipment operator training as part of TNDC’s Tahltan Heavy Equipment Operator Training Program (HEO), which was recognized by the Association for Mineral Exploration with the AME Robert R. Hedley Award for Excellence in Social and Environmental Responsibility. The trailer has been brought into the Tahltan community, giving the next generation an opportunity to try their hand at equipment operation. Finning also facilitated train-thetrainer certification for two trainers from Tahltan Nation, who travelled to Caterpillar’s Tinaja Hills Demonstration

& Learning Center in Arizona. They received globally recognized certification, making TNDC the only customer in North America to have trainers that hold Cat-certified trainer status. TNDC CEO Todd den Engelsen lauds these efforts. “Training Austin as TNDC’s first-ever wear specialist is breaking ground into a highly specialized and valuable skill set, launching a new career trajectory. We appreciate Finning’s innovative contributions. Finning has consistently raised the bar in the value TNDC’s partnerships bring, helping us build the skills of Tahltans and deliver on our commitment to Building Trust, Building Futures,” he says.

A MODEL FOR OPPORTUNITY IN NORTHERN B.C.

Finning sees potential for the model to scale, and interest in developing skilled technical roles within the existing Indigenous workforce is coming from other remote communities in the Golden Triangle.

“Creating a new role for Austin and the HEO Mobile Training Centre might not be traditional dealer work, but we’re lucky to work with customers like TNDC to get creative to solve a gap for both of us,” says Cheryl Gray, Finning VP of Mining. “Partnership means supporting community development goals — skills training, employment, youth sports, and what matters to them. That actually strengthens everyone’s business, including ours. Most significantly, it benefits the lives of those in the communities. We value our partnership with TNDC and their eagerness to pursue these opportunities,” she adds. Everyone wins in this scenario: Carlick-Beck is pioneering a new career path, TNDC’s fleet receives imperative service from a Tahltan Nation member on-site, and Finning’s supply chain obtains real-time data and creates better parts availability. Newmont’s mining operation further benefits from the reliability, and the industry has a new benchmark in Indigenous partnership standards — it’s the ultimate victory.

Training Austin as TNDC’s first-ever wear specialist is breaking ground into a highly specialized and valuable skill set, launching a new career trajectory. Todd den Engelsen CEO, TNDC

ARX Light Tandem Rollers

OBSTRUCTIONS? NO PROBLEM

ARX Light Tandem Rollers

Ammann ARX Light Tandem Rollers excel in the open, where covering ground quickly is the goal. But other jobsites call for a compactor that can work tight against obstructions, such as curbs, without losing productivity. OTHER KEY FEATURES: • Electronic drive lever for smooth starts and stops, especially important on asphalt jobs; • Optional ACEforce , the Intelligent Compaction tool for optimal efficiency; • Perfect all-around machine visibility and LED lights for safety on the jobsite.

Ammann America Inc. | 200 S. Orange Ave., Ste 1050, Orlando, FL 32801, USA Operations / Distribution Center | 680 Clemson Rd Columbia, South Carolina, 29229, USA Phone (407)-634-7701, info.aaa@ammann.com For additional product information and services please visit : www.ammann.com MMP-3547-00-EN-US | © Ammann Group

SEPTEMBER 2026 | heavyequipmentguide.ca

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The Gear Centre Group............... 49 GOMACO Corporation Inc......... 56 Groupe SG.............................................53 Kubota Canada...................................15 LBX Company LLC............................. 7 Liebherr–Canada Ltd....................... 2 MB S.p.A. (MB Crusher)................ 14 McLanahan............................................13 Okada America, Inc....................... 50 Trimble................................................... 29 VMAC....................................................... 42 Wacker Neuson Limited..............23 Weir ESCO............................................... 9 World of Asphalt.............................. 43 World of Concrete........................... 39

THE CASE FOR HYBRID EQUIPMENT

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MAGLIFT No matter how challenging your needs, MAGLIFT is your best ally for forklifts when it comes to moving materials and goods in industrial or logistic operations. This solid tire features high load capacity and outstanding comfort. MAGLIFT shows excellent cut and chip resistance resulting in a long tire life. Its reinforced structure eliminates slippage risks whilst the special bead shape simpliﬁes mounting operations on the rim. MAGLIFT is BKT’s response to te needs of any handling and lifting operations in your warehouse.

Discover the BKT Range

Joe Dias Eastern Zone Manager Directeur Régional, Est du Canada BKT Tires (Canada) Inc. Cell: 514-792-9220 Web: www.bkt-tires.com

The Worldwide Leader in Concrete Paving Technology

www.gomaco.com | info@gomaco.com GOMACO offers the full range of concrete slipform pavers, curb and gutter machines, trimmers, placer/spreaders, texture/cure machines and bridge/canal finishing equipment. GOMACO equipment features our exclusive and proprietary G+® control system, created in-house by our software engineers from the wants and needs of contractors paving in the field. At the heart of GOMACO equipment is our passion for concrete and our commitment to our customers. We look forward to visiting with you about your upcoming paving projects and your concrete paving equipment needs. Our worldwide distributor network and our corporate team always stand ready to serve and assist you. CONCRETE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS | AIRPORT RUNWAYS | CURB AND GUTTER | SIDEWALKS RECREATIONAL TRAILS | SAFETY BARRIER | BRIDGE PARAPET | BRIDGE DECKS | IRRIGATION CANALS GOMACO CORPORATION IN IDA GROVE, IOWA, USA | 712-364-3347