It’s electrifying

Joining Komatsu in 2000, Executive General Manager

Construction Dean Gaedtke shares the company’s path to electrification, one of its many solutions to creating a more sustainable future for the construction industry.

With deep roots in delivering cutting edge equipment and technology for the construction industry, it’s no surprise that Komatsu is committed to helping create a thriving and sustainable future for the sector. The company has over a century of experience, and with it has come an extensive offering of ground-breaking construction solutions – including Komatsu’s range of electrified machines and equipment.

Well versed in Komatsu’s electrification voyage, Executive General Manager Construction Dean Gaedtke has been with the company for over 22 years. As he’s moved up the ranks from sales representative in 2000, to his current role as executive general manager, Gaedtke has seen Komatsu move from strength to strength in the electrification space.

“Our electrification journey dates to the 1950’s,” he says. “At this time, the company began developing its first diesel electric wheel loader.”

“In the 1970’s the company had developed a diesel electric mining dump truck and as we moved into the 2000’s, Komatsu began developing its range of hybrid machines.”

In 2008, Komatsu introduced what Gaedtke says is the world’s first hybrid hydraulic excavator in response to the climbing fuel prices at the time. The 20-ton hybrid excavator was also Komatsu’s first commercial scale solution,