Hitachi’s Redesigned Wheel Loaders: ZW180-7, ZW180PL-7, and ZW220-7

Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc. unveiled their new line of wheel loaders, the ZW180-7, ZW180PL-7, and ZW220-7, at ConExpo-Con/Agg 2023. The Dash-7 series has been completely redesigned for the North American market, with improved efficiency, safety, and maintenance features.

Versatile Design for Any Application

The ZW180-7 and ZW180PL-7 models have an operational weight of 33,047 pounds and a bucket capacity of 3.5 cubic yards. Both models are powered by a 173-horsepower Cummins engine, with the ZW180PL-7 offering a parallel linkage for fork and tool carrier applications, and the ZW180-7 offering conventional or high-lift front arms for bucket applications. The parallel link arm layout offers better visibility and control when loading or unloading cargo.

The ZW220-7 model has an operating weight of 41,035 pounds and a bucket capacity of 4 cubic yards. It is powered by a 210-horsepower Cummins engine and has two arm configurations available: regular and high-lift. The wheel loader has a five-speed transmission and restricted slip differentials, ensuring traction in difficult applications.

Increased Safety and Productivity

The ZW-7 wheel loaders have additional safety features, including a rear collision warning system and upgraded technology for increased productivity. The payload weighing system allows operators to monitor and register the material loaded, with four modes available for load management. The approach speed control reduces operator fatigue and fuel consumption during loading, while the auto power-up function boosts climbing ability.

Enhanced Operator Comfort

The wheel loaders have larger, quieter cabs for increased operator comfort, with a seat-mounted armrest and ergonomic electric-hydraulic controls. The cabs also have an 8-inch anti-glare LCD monitor with Bluetooth radio, adjustable seats and mirrors, and improved visibility from the cab due to modifications in the monitor and switch panel layout and cab pillar position.

The Aerial Angle peripheral vision camera system uses three cameras set on the back to provide a 270-degree bird’s-eye perspective on the monitor. The ZW-7 versions come with an optional rear obstruction detection system with automatic speed decrease, enhancing safety during reverse driving.

Improved Serviceability

The loaders have improved serviceability features, with crucial parts shielded from the elements and a clever automatic reversing hydraulic fan keeping the cooling system clear of obstructions. Filters and parts are easy to access for routine maintenance inspections so people who have trouble maintaining their used wheel loaders will not suffer. The ConSite telematics technology suite notifies owners and operators of impending maintenance needs and remotely monitors operational condition. The new optional add-on ConSite Air allows for remote diagnosis of the wheel loader and software updates to be pushed remotely.

Conclusion

Hitachi’s new line of wheel loaders, the ZW180-7, ZW180PL-7, and ZW220-7, has been fully redesigned for the North American market with improved efficiency, safety, and maintenance features. The versatile design allows for any application, while increased safety, productivity, and operator comfort make these wheel loaders a valuable addition to any fleet.