Komatsu's 22-metric-ton PC220LCi-12 gets the newest intelligent machine control, features to speed up loading and trenching, a bigger cab, among other advancements.

Attendees at the Bauma construction equipment show got the first look at Komatsu’s next-generation excavator.

The PC220 revealed at Bauma was spec’d for the European market; so there could be changes in the North American version.

Here’s what we know so far:

The new PC220 unveiled at Bauma features Komatsu’s new edition of its intelligent machine control, iMC 3.0.The new machine control is compatible with tiltrotators and has such features as 3D boundary control to prevent obstacle strikes, auto swing for semi-autonomous truck loading, and functions to simplify trenching operations. It is controlled by a new 10-inch monitor with 3D graphics.

The excavator has a 1.4-cubic-yard bucket capacity andruns on a new 170-horsepower high-torque Komatsu engine.Combined with the company’s new electronically controlled hydraulic system, it reduces average fuel consumption by 18% compared to the previous generation, according to Komatsu. The hydraulic system increases arm and bucket forces by 7%. The company says a new P+ mode increases fuel efficiency by 20% and increases productivity 18%.

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Slight but welcomed improvements with heavy machinery. The tariffs will make this costly to import. I wonder how this machine stacks up with caterpillar’s offerings?