ConstructionWorX DIGITAL - Winter 2024

THE VOICE OF THE UK CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT INDUSTRY

THE OFFICIAL DIGITAL MAGAZINE OF THE CEA

WINTER 2024

CW D X

IGIT AL ON L ON I N E LY

RISE OF ELECTRIC MACHINES

– ALEX WOODROW REPORTS ON THE LATEST IN ELECTRIFICATION

EXECUTIVE HIRE SHOW 2024

– A SNEAK PEEK OF WHAT’S ON SHOW AT THIS YEAR’S EHS

A DIGITAL JOURNEY THROUGH ICELAND

– PETER HADDOCK TAKES A TOUR OF ICELAND WITH MACHINEMAX

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THE OFFICIAL DIGITAL MAGAZINE OF THE CEA

WINTER 2024 06

Executive Hire Show 2024

WHAT'S INSIDE! 11

KGP’s Alex Woodrow takes a look at how electric machines are on the increase in the construction equipment sector

A preview of what visitors can expect to see at the UK’s premier hire event

18

New Members to the fold

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The CEA welcomes twelve new members to the Association

24

Market Review Off-Highway Research Chris Sleight reports on the outlook for South America

Rise of electric machines

2023, a busy year in the world of standardisation and regulation Dale Camsell takes us through new regulations and standards being implemented

28

CESAR Security Scheme New milestones and developments

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From the Chief Executive

Suneeta Johal Chief Executive

Construction Equipment Association

I am delighted to welcome you to the first issue of Construction Worx in 2024. Firstly, I would like to extend a warm welcome to the twelve new organisations that have joined us over the last year. Your decision to become part of the Construction Equipment Association family is a step towards a collaborative journey of growth and innovation, and I very much look forward to working with you all.

Looking back on the past year, we've navigated through a landscape full of standardisation and regulation changes. Thanks to Dale Camsell's expertise, we've stayed ahead of new regulations and standards, ensuring our industry remains at the forefront of best practices. There’s more from Dale in this issue.

Chris Sleight, provides an in-depth analysis of the emerging opportunities in South America.

This region represents the newest addition to Off-Highway Research's global coverage.

The CESAR Scheme has reached further significant milestones, and we have provided a detailed report in this issue, highlighting some notable achievements at the recent LAMMA event.

The introduction of alternative fuels in the construction equipment sector marks a crucial shift towards sustainability, with KGP's Alex Woodrow providing invaluable insights on electric machines. These advancements

signal our industry's dedication to embracing innovative technologies for a greener future.

Looking ahead, the Executive Hire Show 2024 promises to be an exciting event, showcasing the latest in equipment and technology. Some of our members are exhibiting at the event, we look forward to seeing some of you at the Show.

As we move into 2024, I encourage all members to join our upcoming forum meeting at the end of this month. It's a fantastic opportunity to engage with fellow members, discuss industry trends, and contribute to the CEA's manifesto. You’ll find all the details of how to register and the agenda on page 15.

This year is poised to be an exciting one for the CEA, especially as we approach the General Election. Our manifesto is more relevant than ever, and I look forward to working together to advocate for our industry's interests.

The association continues to go from strength to strength, thanks to your support and collaboration. Let's make 2024 a year of significant achievements and progress for the construction equipment sector.

Enjoy this issue.

Warm regards, Suneeta Johal CEO, Construction Equipment Association

THE OFFICIAL DIGITAL MAGAZINE OF THE CEA

The Construction Equipment Association (also trading as CEA) Unit 19 Omega Business Village, Thurston Road, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 2NJ. UK. T: +44 (0)20 8253 4502 E: info@thecea.org.uk W: www.thecea.org.uk PUBLISHER – Enigma Creative Unit 19 Omega Business Village, Thurston Road, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 2NJ. UK. W: www.enigmacreative.co.uk

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Louise Carney E: louise@louise-carney.co.uk REPORTER AT LARGE Peter Haddock E: content@contentwithmedia.com ADVERTISING SALES Nicky Hunt E: nicky.hunt@plantworx.co.uk EDITORIAL SUPPORT Rob Oliver MBE E: rob.oliver@thecea.org.uk

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Registered Office: Unit 19 Omega Business Village, Thurston Road, Northallerton, England, DL6 2NJ. UK. © 2023 The Construction Equipment Association. Although care has been taken in preparing the information supplied in this publication, the CEA does not and cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions and accepts no liability whatsoever for any loss or damage howsoever arising. Any views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the CEA.

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The UK’s largest Quarrying, Construction & Recycling Exhibition

25-27 June 2024

Hillhead Quarry Buxton | Derbyshire | UK

Register now!

Sign up for your free visitor ticket at hillhead.com/register

Email: hillhead@qmj.co.uk Phone: +44 (0) 115 945 4367

Join the conversation @Hillheadshow #hillhead2024

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Hire Innovations 2024: The Executive Hire Show – leading the hire industry into a sustainable future The 2024 Executive Hire Show is a key event for those in the construction industry, offering a preview of the latest innovations and a move towards a more sustainable future. Taking place on 14th and 15th February at the CBS Arena in Coventry, this year's show is a complete sell-out, indicating the high level of interest in new technologies and sustainable practices within the industry.

Here is a sneak peek at what to expect at the 2024 event in addition to an impressive array of 150 exhibitors, which include key players such as Sany, Sunward, JCB, Genquip Groundhog, Makita, Altrad Belle, Merlo UK, Multiquip, Hire Supply Company, Thwaites, Shindaiwa and many more.

There will be a comprehensive display of electric and alternative

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fuel technology. This shift towards greener options is not just a trend but a necessary step in the industry’s evolution.

From compact, battery-operated tools to larger electric excavators and dumpers, the range of equipment on show highlights the industry’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

The innovation trail will be a key feature, along with thirty-one new exhibitors

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adding their products and ideas to the mix.

These new additions bring fresh perspectives and solutions, making this event an essential visit for anyone in the construction sector looking to stay ahead of the curve.

Among these are leading names including Takeuchi UK, who are marking their return, after a year’s hiatus, with an impressive lineup of new models and electric machines. Walsall Wheelbarrow Company, a top supplier in the market and the sole manufacturer producing all its parts in the UK, will also be present.

Additionally, ASKA International, a renowned generator manufacturer, will be part of this year’s exciting lineup.

Other new participants visitors can expect to see on the exhibition floor include attachment manufacturers Auger Torque Europe who is showing its award-winning Cone Crusher Bucket which is making its Executive Hire Show debut. The company is also offering 10% discount off standard pricing for Cone Crusher Bucket for purchases at the Show.

Ohashi distributors, TH WHITE Machinery Imports, will be showcasing Ohashi - Compact

Woodchippers. Leading the lineup is the Ohashi ES151GH, which is claimed to be the only compact tracked 6-inch woodchipper in the market.

Key features of the ES151GH highlight its position as one of the most powerful compact chipper in its class. With a width of 730mm, the ES151GH’s high manoeuvrability ensures access to various job sites without the need for extensive labour in carrying green clippings or timber.

Xummitt - Luxtronik Technology, Xummit is a brand owned and operated

by Luxtronik Technology and will be showing its mobile light and power solutions. The company will use the Show to launch its new portable light tower – Sierra, which is a more compact, brighter, smarter, safer than any light tower in its class. Designed from the ground up, Sierra is optimized for LED, delivering what the company describes as an unparalleled lighting performance from a robust, 5-metre light tower that fits in your car.

Also debuting is Spartan Solutions, who will be showcasing PHALANX 6, which is an allin-one software platform that streamlines rental operations by digitizing logistical and service processes.

Adamo Precision Engineering will be showing the company’s innovative Tigerbite Mini Crusher, designed to efficiently recycle

waste into reusable materials.

The list of new exhibitors making their Executive Hire Show debut continues with Q Climates, a leading supplier of Evaporative Air Coolers to the UK hire market, supplying the Honeywell range. Evaporative Air Coolers have grown in popularity as a more energy efficient and low maintenance way of cooling.

Look out too for Cramer, who supplies landscaping and gardening equipment.

The company will be showcasing ‘AiConic® Powered by Intelligence’, which is now enhanced by AI. Genesis Equipment who are the official UK dealers for XCMG Access Equipment, will be bringing XCMG to the EHS for the first time. The aerial lift and telehandler division of Chinese equipment manufacturer XCMG appointed Genesis Equipment in May 2023.

Trailer manufacturer Nugent Engineering will be at the event. Among the products on display, Nugent is showcasing its Plant trailer range, known for robust strength and durability. With full type approval (ECWVTA), these trailers offer an exceptional strengthto-weight ratio, suitable for various industries.

The range features Nugent’s patented Dual Drive™ suspension, enhancing towing experience. Incorporating new materials and innovative designs, alongside topquality components, Nugent’s trailers are designed to be the preferred choice for professionals.

Construction consumable company ProSolve will make its first appearance at the Show. ProSolve, established in 1982, is a company known for

offering a diverse array of quality industrial and construction consumables. Their product range includes paints, construction essentials, tapes, hygiene wipes, tools, PPE, abrasives, cleaning products, marker pens, crayons, and various hardware items.

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The EHS team is also pleased to host the ‘Innovation Trail Eco– Live’, once again, which has become a big highlight of the show, hosted by industry vlogger and content creator, Peter Haddock, that highlights emerging eco-friendly technologies poised to shape the industry’s future. Attendees will engage with cuttingedge, sustainable solutions that promise to elevate operational efficiency and safety standards within the hire sector and lead us into a net zero future.

Here is what visitors can expect to see on the 2024 Innovation Trail: Atlas Copco is presenting their new range of lightweight, portable battery energy storage systems. These are notable for their use of high-density lithium-ion batteries, which makes them up to 70% lighter than traditional battery solutions. They offer over 12 hours of power on a single charge

and can be fully charged in under an hour, depending on the model. This makes them a versatile and low-maintenance alternative to traditional diesel generators.

Husqvarna has expanded its batterypowered offerings with the K 540i power cutter, which operates on the BLi 36 V battery platform. This cutter features an adjustable blade guard, deep cutting capabilities, and an ‘X-Halt’ electronic brake system for enhanced

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safety. The BLi system supports a range of tools, including core drills and dust extractors, indicating a move towards a more unified, efficient battery platform.

Golz introduces the BattPak 5048, a fully weather-proof portable power solution with an IP67 rating, meaning it can operate even when submerged in water. This power pack is notable for its capacity expansion capabilities and flexible charging options, including solar, mains, and electric vehicle charging points.

It represents a robust and versatile power solution for heavyduty equipment.

E-power focuses on sustainable solutions with its hydrogen and hybrid generators.

Their hydrogen generator adapts internal combustion engines to run on hydrogen, while the P-Grid hybrid solution combines a diesel generator with batteries for efficient energy management. These innovations showcase a commitment to reducing environmental impact in the power generation sector.

Takeuchi’s TB20e, a 100% battery-powered mini excavator, offers a working time of eight hours at 65% load, comparable to its diesel equivalent. It demonstrates the growing capability of battery-powered heavy machinery to match the performance of traditional fuel-powered equipment.

Fuelbox is launching a new 500-litre AdBlue Box, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional bulk containers. This innovation highlights a push towards more sustainable solutions in the industry, coupled with the convenience of their efficient nationwide delivery service.

GGR Group’s Faresin electric telehandler range, including the 17.45 model, exemplifies

the shift towards electric machinery.

These telehandlers offer significant run times and come with standard onboard charging and intelligent charging capabilities, aligning with the industry’s move towards more sustainable equipment.

Pramac Generac adds the PRAMAC LX LFP Series to its product line, a silent battery system with advanced technology and a high level of safety. This system is characterised by its ease of use and diverse applications, indicating a trend towards user-friendly and environmentally conscious solutions.

Auger Torque’s Cone Crusher Bucket offers a cost-effective method for reprocessing small volume construction rubble into usable aggregate. This innovation highlights the industry’s focus on recycling and efficient resource utilization.

Lifos Fort introduces a compact solar PV and battery storage system, designed to reduce the cost, noise, and emissions associated with diesel generators on construction sites. This product represents a significant step towards more sustainable power solutions in the industry.

J-strut’s award-winning telescopic steel

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Trime’s range of fuelsaving, low-emission Stage 5-compliant generators, including solar hybrid models, showcases the industry’s commitment to reducing emissions and enhancing fuel efficiency.

Powr2’s POWRSYNC device, which allows for the parallel connection of multiple battery systems, demonstrates an innovative approach to enhancing the flexibility and scalability of temporary power solutions.

Wirtgen’s Vögele MINI pavers, both in diesel

prop, J-Strut, is designed to make propping safer, quicker, and easier, highlighting a focus on safety and efficiency in construction and renovation projects.

InspHire has announced a new what3words integration with its Office Edition, enhancing the precision of location tracking in rental management. This integration points towards the industry’s embrace of digital transformation and innovative technologies.

Groundcare Products’ ZipLevel is a user-friendly altimeter/level that simplifies surveying and level checking tasks, indicating a trend towards more accessible and efficient tools in various industries.

and battery-electric models, are designed for small-scale construction projects, illustrating the industry’s move towards more compact and environmentally friendly machinery.

Rotair introduces the MDVN32B and MDVN34E compressors, addressing the increasing demand for zero-emission units in urban areas, reflecting a wider industry trend towards sustainability.

Mecalac’s REVOTRUCK combines a revolving cabbed dumper with off-road trucking capabilities, emphasizing safety and efficiency in material transport on tight jobsites.

These entries on the innovation trail at the Executive Hire Show demonstrate the construction and hire industry’s ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and efficiency, promising an exciting future for these sectors.

“The Executive Hire Show stands as the epitome of innovation in the hire industry, consistently offering a dynamic platform for professionals seeking to rejuvenate and upgrade their equipment. This year, we are thrilled to welcome 31 new exhibitors, each bringing a fresh wave of cutting-edge products and expertise. It is not just an event; it’s a celebration of progress and excellence in the hire sector. Too good to miss!” said Chris Moore, the Show’s Publishing and Events Director.

Chris concluded, “The Show, held on February 14th and 15th at the

Coventry Building Society Arena, has proven its prominence in the hire industry by selling out all exhibition spaces. This year’s event, featuring a record 150 exhibitors confirms the industry’s robust enthusiasm and commitment, solidifying EHS as the top destination for hire professionals to discover cutting-edge innovations and connect with colleagues.”

Prospective attendees are encouraged to

register for a visit, ensuring their participation in this pivotal industry event. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with an impressive host of new and loyal exhibitors.

To register to visit the EHS for FREE click here...

For more details on the show and a full exhibitor list, visit www.executivehireshow.co.uk

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Rise of the (electric) machines Various fuel types will be needed to reduce the carbon emissions of NRMM, such as renewable diesel, hydrogen, and electric machines. Electric machines may not be suitable for all segments, but the number of product launches has increased over the last year, and there are many electric options on the market.

Alex Woodrow, managing director, KGP Powertrain Intelligence reports for Construction Worx…

KGP’s biannual review of alternative powered machines published in November found over 350 electric and full hybrid construction and large mining machines that were available or in prototype worldwide by the end of 2023. These may not be fully available yet or not in the UK. These are global numbers, but with Chinese OEMs exporting electric machines to Europe and the US the market will become even more globalised.

Of the 300 plus electric machines there were 59 mini-excavators, 36 compact wheeled-loaders, 56 full size excavators and 26 telescopic handlers. Compaction equipment has also seen a significant growth in availability over the past few years, with all the major OEMs introducing a range of small electric machines.

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Compact machines are most widely available….

The most common type of electric machines are compact ones, and at least one OEM has said it will not have diesel versions in the future.

All OEMs are releasing mini excavators, which are preferred for some specific uses, such as inside buildings, because they have no emissions.

These machines, some using batteries designed for cars, can work for up to a single shift, and can be plugged into a UK 3-pin wall socket with internal chargers. Many of them use 48V systems with small batteries under 20kWh. For bigger machines, special chargers will be needed to allow DC fast charging, so machines can charge during breaks, if there is power on site.

Typical Battery Capacity & Equipment Size

Equipment Types (Examples)

10-50kWh Handheld/ Extra-Compact

Compaction, Dumpers, Lawn care

Bigger machines will also have much bigger batteries, with the largest over 1MWh. A summary grouping of machine types, which is changing all the time, is given here.

Some of the biggest machines, used in mining, can benefit from full electric in some cases, driven by ESG demands and TCO. For mines with low-cost electricity, often generated on site and behind the meter, large batteries that can charge fast may be economically viable. Most on-site generation will be renewable, so mining companies can cut the cost of diesel, avoid noxious emissions and lower their Scope 1 emissions directly. One example already in trial is Fortescue’s mining dump truck using WAE, now owned by Fortescue’s 1.4MWH battery (like having 1520 Teslas in one machine). Although this seems extreme it's likely even bigger packs will be used in future to reduce charging time.

Voltage/Power

Technology Transfer

48V

Passenger Car

<19kW

Forklift

Model Availability

AG - 20 CE - 45 MH - 2 AG - 60

50-100kWh Compact

Mini-Excavators, Compact Wheel-Loaders, Compact Tractors, Asphalt Finishers, Forklift

48-90V 19-75kW

Light Commercial Vehicle

CE - 120 MH - 11 Others - 9

100-300kWh Mid-Sized

0.3-1MWh Large

>1MWh Extra-Large

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Wheeled, Crawler Excavators, Skid-Steer, Compact Tracked Loaders, Telehandlers, Wheel-Loaders

Crawler Excavators, Wheel-Loaders, Crushers, Screens, Port-Handling, Mobile Cranes, Piling Rigs

Mining Dump Trucks, Marine, Rail

AG - 16 100-300V 75-225kW

Medium Truck

CE - 91 MH - 21 Others - 4 AG - 11

400-1000V

Heavy Truck

225-560kW

Bespoke NRMM

CE - 52 MH - 8 Others - 35

>1000V >560KW

Bespoke NRMM

CE/Mining - 32 Others - 3

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But mid-sized machines use most fuel/ energy…

But the machines in the middle are the biggest energy consumers. A recent analysis

by KGP, based on sales data from our long-time partner, Off-Highway Research, shows that the mid-sized machines in the NRMM segment globally consume the most energy, and it is these, not the compact or largest machines that will have to switch to alternative fuels over time.

The number of models in the mid-sized machine category is growing. At Bauma in 2022, and ConExpo in 2023, there were more machines on display, but electric is still far from being widely adopted. Recently released electric machines in this mid-sized segment go up to around 20t. Although there are heavier battery electric excavators, several OEMs thought this would be the practical limit, until future technology allows heavier machines to run for longer hours.

Enabling technologies can improve both electric and engine machine efficiency…

The challenges of battery pack sizing can be helped by adopting other technologies.

Notable examples are Moog’s electric cylinders, replacing hydraulic ones on Bobcat’s electric compact tracked loader. Also notable is Danfoss’ digital displacement pump.

Both technologies, suited to different machine types will improve machine overall energy efficiency, making a smaller battery offer longer run time.

One of the other saving graces for electric machines is their low energy use whilst idling. Engine drive machines have been tested and results show idling is a significant share of total hours, and fuel used. Although anti-idling technologies are available, they are not widely adopted, especially stop-start.

Battery swapping will be available, but in niche applications…

In the compact handheld segment, its most interesting to see the collaboration between a number of OEMs to launch a common battery size, much as is the norm now for handheld power tools, albeit with bigger packs. The Bomag, WackerNeuson, Mikasa, Swepac and Enarco. Standardisation for larger packs is not expected in the short term, but there have been some trials, and a number of retrofit OEMs are offering swappable batteries. With the concept common amongst the electrified models of underground mining, and also heavy-duty trucks in China, there is likely to be further developments in this area.

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Barriers to electrification…

Challenges remain largely due to battery energy density and energy access on site. With many machines operated nomadically, and owned by rental companies rather than the end user there are further challenges with energy and economics.

Charging types will be an issue for construction equipment, due to the differences in battery requirements. DC fast charging for 48V is not a current standard, and connectors for these machines vary from OEM to OEM, and market to market. The European DIN-E connector which is widely used for forklift trucks is fitted to many machines, and preferred in Volvo’s protocol which it made open source in 2023. However forklift manufacturers are currently developing a new standard for charging lithium battery forklifts below 120VDC under the DKE. standard.

Above 48V/96V automotive connectors are currently more widely available, alongside the CEE industrial standard connector. As a result,

some machines have three different sockets for the different AC and DC charging options. In the largest machines industrial options are more widely being used, but we expect to see the new commercial vehicle MegaWatt Charging Standard (MCS) developed by Charin come to market in these, sitting above the European CCS2 which can extend to over 350kW.

Policy, Legislative and Financial Support will be required to grow zero emission equipment…

Many of these electric machines are much more expensive than their diesel counterpart. Total cost of ownership benefits are limited with the current high electricity prices in the UK, so the industry will need incentives to become more practical. Recent work completed by KGP in this area identified a number of opportunities to support the industry through both direct and indirect fiscal and legislative measures.

However the NRMM segment is often overlooked despite the critical nature of the machines used in construction, repair and maintenance and waste and recycling. One of the biggest issues faced by the industry is customers lack of willingness to pay for ‘green’ machines due to the additional costs. Even projects that call for a significant share of zero emission machinery in the tendering process may find it difficult to source all the machinery required economically.

Outlook…

In 2024 we expect to continue to see growth in availability of machines, plus more support for the early adopters. However high interest rates and energy costs are impacting on projects so there may in the shortterm weakening of demand for zero emission machines. Longer term however there is no doubt that net zero targets are going to need electric machines, as well as renewable diesel and hydrogen. What that mix will be is going to be very reliant on infrastructure going forward, and government and industry need to significantly increase investment to meet the targets. In 2023 the electric share of construction machinery was around 2% across all power ranges, and this may increase to 3% in 2024, which is a long way to go to meet Net Zero targets for 2050 in Europe.

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Shaping the Future Together: Join the CEA Members' Forum at Komatsu As the Construction Equipment Association (CEA) continues to advocate for and represent the interests of the construction equipment industry, the significance of member involvement has never been more crucial.

With the next Members’ Forum scheduled for Wednesday, 28 February 2024, at Komatsu (UK) Ltd in County Durham, the CEA highlights the importance of collective input in shaping industry policies and strategies.

Set against the backdrop of Komatsu's state-of-the-art facility, this gathering is an opportunity for members to directly influence the CEA's direction and manifesto, especially with the General Election on the horizon. The forum, running from 10 am to 3 pm, promises a blend of updates, discussions, and networking, aimed at promoting a collaborative environment for all attendees.

The pre-forum dinner on 27 February in Newcastle serves as a precursor to the day's events, offering an informal setting at the Khai Khai Indian restaurant for members to connect and share insights. This event is kindly sponsored by Komatsu and will be the perfect opportunity for members to engage in meaningful conversations ahead of the forum.

The previous forum at Volvo highlighted the impact of member contributions, and the upcoming event seeks to build on this foundation.

With sessions on CEA activities, market updates from Off Highway Research, and insights from Komatsu, the forum is designed to equip members with the latest industry information and trends.

The core of the forum lies in the collaborative sessions aimed at developing the CEA's Manifesto. This is where member feedback becomes pivotal. The association's ability to effectively lobby and represent industry interests hinges on a deep understanding of its members' needs and challenges. The forum offers a platform for voicing these concerns and shaping the policies that the CEA will champion.

The networking lunch and brainstorming sessions are integral to the forum's goal of developing a collaborative community within the CEA. These interactions provide the groundwork for a manifesto that truly reflects the collective voice of the industry.

Registration is essential, and with limited spaces available, early sign-up is encouraged. This is more than just a meeting; it's a chance to shape the future of the construction equipment industry together. Join us at the CEA Members' Forum and lend your voice to issues that are at the core of the construction equipment sector.

Register now…

The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) is excited to welcome five new members, enhancing our community's diversity and expertise. These companies will be featured at our forthcoming Members' Forum, where they will share their innovations and insights: ● MANN+HUMMEL: Leaders in filtration technology. ● Commercial Fuel Solutions: Experts in fuel management systems. ● Arden Equipment: Manufacturers of construction and demolition attachments. ● ABB Ltd: Pioneers in electrification and automation. ● Scorpion Automotive: Specialists in security and fleet management.

This occasion highlights the crucial role of teamwork in developing industry standards and pushing forward with construction innovations. We look forward to the insights and advancements our new members will bring.

Members wishing to stay overnight in Newcastle before, or after the Forum, can benefit from the Komatsu rates at the Millenium Copthorne Hotel on the Newcastle Quayside. A short walk from the restaurant and within walking distance of the station (on the East Coast Mainline). To reserve a bedroom contact the hotel directly following these instructions: Millenium Copthorne: 0191 201 1393 or email: Reservations.Newcastle@millenniumhotels. co.uk Quote ‘KOMA270224’ and this will allow access to the Komatsu rate of £99. Rooms may cancel free of charge up to 2 weeks prior to arrival, after this date charges apply. At the time of booking a room, a card is required for guarantee purposes.

Registration is now open, places are limited, so securing your place early is recommended.

NB: If you do book for the dinner please do attend. November saw a number of dropouts which were not notified to us in advance.

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Charity Gala in support of Ukrainian refugees hosted by Point of Rental Software To aid Ukrainian refugees, Point of Rental Software, in partnership with the Plant and Hire Aid Alliance, is organising a charity gala dinner.

The 'Friends of Ukraine' event is scheduled for Thursday, 7th March 2024, at the Edgbaston County Cricket Ground. The primary objective is to raise funds for Rotary International, which will be channelled toward purchasing humanitarian aid for those affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The evening's agenda includes a three-course meal, a variety of drinks, an auction, and live music provided by a band. Additionally, there will be a speech from a guest speaker, offering insights and perspectives on the situation in Ukraine.

Guests will also have the opportunity to take a tour of the Edgbaston County Cricket Ground before the main event commences, adding an element of unique experience to the evening.

The organisers have made arrangements for 45 tables, with each table seating up to 12 guests. See more details below in the official

invite, outlining all the information about the event, including sponsorship options. Those interested in attending are encouraged to respond promptly, as there is an expectation of high demand for this event.

At a time when international news is often dominated by other global issues, such as those occurring in Israel, this charity gala serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. It highlights the necessity of continued support and awareness for the Ukrainian people, who are still grappling with the consequences of the conflict.

For more details or to confirm attendance, interested parties are encouraged to contact Joan Mckinlay at joan.mckinlay@pointofrental.com. Early responses are recommended to secure participation in this significant charitable event.

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NEW MEMBERS

Welcoming New Horizons celebrating the newest CEA Members The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) is delighted to announce the addition of 12 valued members who joined our community in 2023 and the early part of 2024.

These new members bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the CEA, further enriching our diverse association. In the coming months, we look forward to featuring each company individually, providing an in-depth look at their contributions and innovations within the UK construction equipment industry.

Spillard Vehicle Safety Systems A leader in vehicle safety solutions, Spillard has made significant strides in improving the visibility and safety of construction equipment. Their innovative approach to safety technology makes them a valuable addition to the CEA.

HPC Compressed Air Systems Specialising in advanced compressed air systems, HPC is known for its energy-efficient and sustainable solutions. Their expertise in this critical area of construction equipment is a boon to our association.

Blue Group Blue Group stands out for its comprehensive range of machinery for

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the waste recycling and quarrying industries. Their commitment to providing effective and efficient equipment solutions aligns perfectly with CEA’s objectives.

AP Air Ltd Renowned for their air conditioning parts and services, AP Air Ltd brings a focus on comfort and efficiency in construction equipment cabins, ensuring operators work in the best possible conditions.

Lifos Lifos is at the forefront of battery technology, providing cutting-edge energy solutions for construction equipment. Their innovative products are crucial for powering a sustainable future in our industry.

TVH UK Ltd A global player in the field of spare parts for lifting and industrial equipment, TVH UK Ltd’s extensive catalogue and service expertise are invaluable resources for CEA members.

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Moving Intelligence Specialising in vehicle security and fleet management, Moving Intelligence offers solutions that are essential for the effective and secure operation of construction equipment.

Arden Equipment Arden Equipment brings to the table a vast range of attachments for construction machinery, enhancing the versatility and performance of construction equipment.

Commercial Fuel Solutions Experts in fuel storage and dispensing systems, their innovative solutions play a critical role in fuel management for construction sites.

Scorpion Automotive A leading provider of vehicle security systems, Scorpion Automotive’s products are pivotal in safeguarding construction equipment from theft and unauthorised use.

ABB Ltd ABB is a leading global technology company specialising in electrification, automation, and digitalisation. Its operations are divided into four main business areas: Electrification, Motion, Process Automation, and Robotics & Discrete Automation. Each area offers a

range of products and services, from electrical components to advanced robotics and automation solutions. ABB Ltd is driving innovation in the construction equipment sector with their cutting-edge technologies.

MANN+HUMMEL Specialising in filtration solutions, MANN+HUMMEL enhances the performance and longevity of construction equipment, contributing to a more sustainable industry.

Suneeta Johal, CEO of the CEA, warmly welcomes these new members, stating, “We are thrilled to have such diverse and innovative companies joining the CEA. Each member brings unique strengths and insights that are invaluable in shaping the future of the construction equipment industry. We look forward to working closely with them, helping to amplify their impact and integrate their expertise into our collective efforts.”

The CEA has always been committed to the growth and development of its members, providing a platform for collaboration, innovation, and influence in the construction equipment sector. These new members will not only benefit from a wide range of services aimed at supporting their activities within the UK but also contribute significantly to the evolution and direction of the CEA. Once again, we extend a warm welcome to our new members and look forward to a fruitful and collaborative relationship.

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DALE’S DIARY

A busy year in the world of regulation and standardisation 2023 was an eventful year in the regulatory and standardisation world.

It was relatively intense, with many new regulations and standards being implemented. There was certainly no easing off in the final quarter, which proved to be one of the busiest periods of the year. The CEA’s Senior Technical Consultant, Dale Camsell, reports UK policymakers launch decarbonisation consultation A major consultation, “Non-Road Mobile Machinery Decarbonisation Options – Call for Evidence”, has recently been launched by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ), the Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), and the Department for Transport (DfT). This call for evidence forms part of the government’s strategy in developing the UK’s long-term decarbonisation policies for our sector, hence, as a major stakeholder in this highly significant consultation, it is vital that CEA provides a comprehensive, holistic, and deeply considered response. The consultation remains open until 26th March.

Details regarding the background as to why this call for evidence has been launched, the role of non-road mobile machinery in the economy, decarbonisation options, deployment considerations, policy considerations, modelling assumptions, and the supporting study can be found here.

The consultation itself consists of almost 70 questions, which range in their level of technical complexity from relatively simple to highly

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demanding. CEA will initiate a draft response to the consultation based on previously established positions and we are already working in partnership with other UK non-road mobile machinery trade associations as well as user groups to ensure that the entire construction sector offers a cohesive and coordinated response. Once the draft is complete it will be shared with members along with a request for feedback as to how it could be improved in any way.

The CEA got off to a head start on the consultation because, in anticipation of its launch, our most recent Members’ Forum meeting, which was hosted by Volvo in November 2023, focussed specifically on the opportunities and challenges in decarbonising the construction equipment fleet. The output from that event will feed into the initial CEA draft response.

Since this is an open consultation, each individual company is free to provide its own, independent response to this consultation. Whilst the CEA strongly encourages members to do so, we request that any individual response that members provide is based on the principles contained in the CEA submission. This is to ensure that the messages conveyed are aligned and don’t conflict in any way.

The CEA and its members are keen to play their role in the important

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matter of decarbonising the non-road mobile machinery fleet.

Members have already invested much time, effort and capital into the decarbonisation of their products; hence the CEA is very keen to work with the UK authorities as they set policies in this new, exciting and very important initiative. Members’ contribution to this call for evidence is therefore very much appreciated.

The General Technical Committee met for its final gathering of 2023 The fourth and final meeting of the CEA’s General Technical Committee took place in Daventry over 2 days in mid-December 2023. It was a wellattended event, with 25 physical attendees and others joining virtually.

The GTC holds its mid-year and year-end meetings over two days in order to provide the opportunity for a deeper dive into some of the more technically complex and/or higher impact new pieces of technical legislation.

The most recent gathering was no exception, and the time was used to take members through topics such as the compliance implications brought about by the publication of the new EU Machinery Regulation, the revision of the EU Outdoor Noise Directive, and the impending publication of the EU Data Regulation. This latter topic provoked much interest among members and will receive further scrutiny during this year’s GTC meetings. There is more on this important new topic later in this article.

Members were also advised of the latest compliance requirements affecting the GB market, especially in relation to the indefinite acceptance of CE marking and the somewhat challenging situation regarding the status of UK designated standards.

Our next meeting will take place on 5th March and is being kindly hosted by Caterpillar, Peterborough. Membership of the GTC is free to members; should you be interested in joining the group then please don’t hesitate to contact our Senior Technical Consultant, Dale Camsell, who will guide you through the benefits of membership and take care of your registration. His contact details can be found at the end of this article.

The Equipment and Machinery Industry Forum goes from strength to strength The membership of the forum continues to grow, giving it greater credibility and authority. The EMIF is now the Department of Business and Trade’s first port of call when they need to liaise with industry on regulatory matters in our sector.

The forum met towards the end of last year and we were joined by representatives of DBT’s policy team, DBT’s Product Safety Review team, and members of Defra’s policy team, where the topics for discussion included what the UK’s plans might be following the publication of the EU Batteries and Waste Batteries Regulation.

The next EMIF meeting will take place in late March, and we look forward to further fruitful discussions both internally with the other associations as well as with government representatives.

EU Data Regulation published Shortly before the Christmas break, the EU published Data Regulation 2023/2854, which puts in place new rules that are intended to facilitate a fair and innovative data economy. In brief, the new rules define the rights to access and use data generated in the EU across all economic sectors and intends to make the sharing of data easier, especially industrial data.

The purpose of the Data Regulation is to ensure fairness in the digital environment by clarifying who can create value from data and under which conditions. It is also intended to stimulate a competitive and innovative data market by unlocking industrial data, and by providing legal clarity as regards the use of data.

In recent years, there has been a rapid growth in the market of connected devices, ranging from small domestic products through to large construction equipment, which has led to increasing amounts of data being generated and exchanged. The new rules enable users of connected products to access the data generated by these devices, and to share such data with third-parties. Thus, a user of connected construction equipment will be able to request, from the manufacturer, certain data generated by its use and will be freely able to share that data with a maintenance or repair service provider of their own choice.

The intention is that this will give more control to users of connected products and will boost aftermarket services and innovation. Incentives for manufacturers to invest in data-generating products and services will be preserved, and trade secrets will remain protected.

The Data Regulation also intends to protect businesses from unfair contractual terms in data sharing contracts that one contracting party unilaterally imposes on the other. This should enable small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to participate more actively in the data market.

Finally, the Data Regulation should enable customers to switch seamlessly (and eventually free of charge) between different cloud providers. These measures intend to promote competition and choice in the market while preventing vendor lock-in. For instance, any EU enterprise could combine data services from different cloud providers and benefit from the vast opportunities in the EU cloud market. It could drastically reduce costs for businesses and administrations when they move their data and applications to a different cloud provider.

Given the complexity of this new piece of regulation and its significant implications to our members, the CEA is working closely with CECE to develop guidance to the implementation of the Data Regulation and what its implications mean to manufacturers. This topic will be centre-stage in our upcoming GTC meetings.

If you have any queries on the points covered above or if you have any other technical regulatory or compliance related queries, then please don’t hesitate to contact Senior Technical Consultant at dale.camsell@thecea.org.uk

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HARD DATA

UK Construction equipment sales fell by 9% in 2023 The CEA’s Market Analyst, Paul Lyons, provides his insight into what is happening in and around the construction equipment market …

After showing strong sales in the first half of 2023, retail sales of construction and earthmoving equipment showed a significant fall in the second half of the year. As a result, sales overall ended up at just under 9% below 2022 levels at 34,300 units. This involved strong sales at 8% above 2022 levels in the first half of the year, but a 25% decline in the second half of the year compared with the previous year. Previous updates highlighted that equipment sales in the early months of 2023 were still benefitting from the “catch up” impact of supply chain constraints in 2022 which extended lead times for delivery of machines.

In contrast, equipment sales in the second half of 2023 experienced the impact of declining levels of construction activity, particularly in the housebuilding market. While equipment sales in 2023 ended up at two to three thousand units below the levels in 2021 and 2022, it should be highlighted that these two years were the highest since the financial crash in 2008, and sales last year were still at relatively elevated levels compared with earlier years. All equipment sales statistics are taken from the construction equipment data exchange run by Systematics International.

Despite overall sales of construction equipment being down last year, some of the smaller volume products still recorded growth in sales compared with 2022.

This included Wheeled loaders, which ended up at 10% above 2022 levels and Telehandlers (for construction) which were 4% above the previous years’ levels.

The decline in sales in 2023 was very much driven by excavators. Mini/Midi excavators (up to 10 tonnes) saw sales at 10% below 2022 levels and sales of Crawler excavators were 18% below the previous years’ levels.

Off-Highway Research will be publishing their UK market

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update for 2024 in the next couple of months. In their previous update, they were anticipating that equipment sales in 2024 would continue declining, but at a lower level than 2023 at 2%. It will be interesting to see if the next review forecasts a more significant decline this year against a background of declining construction activity.

The Construction Products Association (CPA) published their Autumn forecast for the UK construction market in October last year.

This anticipated that the UK construction industry would remain in a recession until 2025. The Winter forecast update will be published in February.

Construction equipment sales in the Republic of Ireland are also

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reported in the statistics exchange. Sales in Q4 last year continued on a declining trend and were 13% below 2022 levels. However, sales for 2023 overall ended up at 1% above 2022 levels. As reported previously, this was due to a strong start to the year, where sales were 24% above 2022 levels in Q1. Following this, equipment sales were below 2022 levels in the remaining three quarters.

Construction activity slowed down in 2023 The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that orders for new work were on a declining trend in the first three quarters of last year, after being relatively flat in 2022. The reduction in new orders in Q1 to Q3 compared with 2022 was a fall of 14%. This was driven by a 33% fall in infrastructure, with the cutbacks on HS2 being a factor. New orders for housebuilding work were also down by 13% during this period. Statistics on construction output are available for the first eleven months of 2023. This shows that output was still 3.1% above 2022 levels. However, within this, repair and maintenance activity grew by 9.3%, offsetting a decline in new work of just under 1%. This included a 10% decline in output in the housebuilding sector in the first eleven months of the year.

The latest update of the UK construction Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) was published in the first week of January. This provides an update on sentiment within the UK construction industry up to December last year. The latest update indicated that activity was declining for the fourth month in a row and remained below the 50.0 “no change” level.

However, at 46.8 in December, it was higher than the three previous months. The latest survey highlights that activity is declining in all three major sectors within the construction industry, with housebuilding being the weakest at 41.1 in December. Alongside this, Commercial

construction activity (47.6) and Civil Engineering work (47.0) are showing more modest declines.

The most recent forecast published by the Construction Products Association (CPA) for the UK construction market was their Autumn forecast published in late October last year. This highlighted that the UK construction industry would be in a recession until 2025. A weak UK economy overall is expected to hold back any recovery in 2024 in the housebuilding sector and for infrastructure activity. Interest rates are expected to remain relatively high, which will continue to dampen new housing demand. Alongside this, more road projects are expected to be pushed back which will limit growth in the infrastructure sector.

Major projects such as HS2 and Hinckley Point C are helping to maintain underlying activity levels in this sector. It will be interesting to see the CPA Winter forecast when it is published in February. https://www.constructionproducts.org.uk/

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MARKET REVIEW

Outlook for South America

Chris Sleight Managing Director Off Highway Research

After spending most of the 2010s bumping along the bottom, construction equipment sales in South America rose to record highs in 2021 and 2022. History shows there is usually a pronounced and punishing cycle in this part of the world, but is there reason to think things will be better this time?

South America is the latest region to be added to Off-Highway Research’s global coverage. Our figures show sales in the five biggest markets of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Peru totaled more than 65,500 machines in 2022, with a value of more than US$8.5 billion.

That was a record high. But what goes up must come down, so we all know what happens next. Or do we?

It is true that The South American market has a habit of being either all the way up or all the way down. The current upswing has come after a grim few years in the middle of the 2010s when sales were low and growth was anemic. Lift off came in 2021 as it did for most markets around the world, as stimulus measures triggered enormous demand for construction machines. In South America’s case, the market almost doubled in a year, and it is perhaps natural to expect a sudden downturn after such a sudden spike.

After the record sales of 2022 we certainly expect demand to be lower this year and the downturn could be in the 15-20 per cent range.

But this will bring the market down to a more natural level after the abnormal high of 2022. The forecast thereafter is for sales to stabilize at a good level. To understand why we think markets will buck the historical trend, it is important to delve into the details.

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The first and biggest factor is Brazil. At the moment the country accounts for some 70 per cent of South American equipment sales.

What happens in Brazil swings the entire continent’s market.

This was true in the difficult years in the second half of the 2010s, when the fallout from the Petrobras scandal put the state and its relationship with the construction sector under enormous and perfectly justified scrutiny. As necessary as this was, it paralyzed the industry for years.

But while this was going on, many of the smaller markets performed well. There was steady growth in Chile, Colombia, and Peru, while Argentina was good at times (and awful at others). Unfortunately, Argentina will be awful again this year thanks to its triple-digit inflation, but this is the only real negative in our outlook.

Looking at our forecast, the obvious point is that because we expect the South American market as a whole to remain strong, we expect the Brazilian market to remain strong. High commodity prices have fueled demand for equipment in extraction and agriculture alike.

Although that inflationary spike is now diminishing, we expect demand for commodities to stay strong enough to keep driving investment in capital equipment in these areas.

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Construction equipment sales in South America (units)

The second positive we see in Brazil is a renewed focus on infrastructure investment through PAC (Growth Acceleration Program), a key policy initiative by President Lula da Silva in his first term of office from 2003-2010 and one he was swift to resurrect on taking office at the start of this year.

Another reason we believe the Brazilian market will be strong for a while is that this is badly needed. After a long period of reduced sales in the late 2010s, the country’s fleet of equipment is old and badly in need of replacement. The current period of prosperity and better certainty for equipment buyers should give them the confidence to renew their worn-out machines.

Finally, we see greater maturity in the South American market. A bigger rental industry has emerged from the hard times of the 2010s and this now accounts for more than 25 per cent of sales. Equipment choices also show some of the hallmarks of a maturing industry, with

growth in compact excavators, small wheeled loaders and telehandlers – machines which typically replace manual labour or less sophisticated solutions.

Any forecast has its risks and uncertainties. Inflation is always a concern in Latin America, and although this has been a problem in the last 1-2 years (As it has been everywhere in the world), it has only caused cataclysmic problems in Argentina. The rest of the region’s big economies are pulling through.

The second concern is political stability. The market was brought to its knees in the 2010s by the Petrobras scandal and it is not beyond the realms of possibility another crisis could come out of leftfield to scupper growth.

But today, knowing what we know and looking at the market situation and economic prospects, we believe that are more reasons to be positive than negative.

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Volvo moves to zero with decarbonization showcase at Intermat 2024 Innovation and pioneering partnership will be at the forefront of a platform of sustainable solutions from Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) at Intermat 2024, April 24-27 in Paris, France.

Volvo CE France, together with colleagues across Volvo Group, will showcase an all-inclusive decarbonization pathway for the entire construction industry that covers powerful battery electric equipment and commercial vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell prototypes, smart services and efficient charging solutions.

On a 1.500 m² stand Volvo will display today’s decarbonization in action. Alongside a number of new and existing innovations, many of which will be kept under wraps until the show itself, will be the 23-ton

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EC230 Electric excavator and the new L120 Electric wheel loader, as well as some of the smaller electric compact machines such as the EC18 Electric excavator.

The Volvo HX04 is the world's first articulated hauler hydrogen fuel cell prototype Proving that multiple technologies are needed to support our industry’s transition, the world’s first prototype hydrogen fuel cell articulated hauler, the HX04, will also be highlighted, alongside other

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pioneering solutions such as those powered by renewable biofuels.

With services taking on a more prominent role at Intermat, 2024 Volvo CE will display Productivity Services such as Connected Map, Task Manager and its pioneering Equipment as a Service model, as well as Parts and Uptime Services such as the CO2 Reduction Program. Volvo Financial Services will be part of the Volvo stand to present its wide offer of financing solutions.

The electric transformation would not be complete without a demonstration of the company’s leading range of charging solutions and mobile power units, for both lighter equipment and heavy-duty long-haul commercial vehicles.

Knowing that the sustainability shift is a journey our customers cannot achieve in isolation, Volvo CE’s products and services will stand shoulder to shoulder with 100% electric solutions from Volvo Trucks and Volvo Penta.

It is a platform that proves that Volvo is a trusted brand when it comes to delivering a net zero future across different transport streams – and that it is more committed than ever to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040.

Through product and service innovation, it is demonstrating that electric construction equipment has the power to work seamlessly together with electric trucks, all the while supported by reliable and holistic charging solutions.

Davy Guillemard, (pictured) Head of Market Area France, Volvo CE, says: “We are leading our industry transformation, both in France and around the world, with our unique and holistic offering of sustainable solutions. Our customers benefit from the expertise across Volvo Group, resulting in our broad range of electric products, charging solutions and smart services.”

Marcus Horberg, President Volvo Trucks France, says: “It is together that we can mobilize to create a safer, quieter world free from harmful pollutants. Working in partnership across the Group, we are better able to respond to the environmental challenges of our planet and support

Davy Guillemard, Head of Market Area France, Volvo CE our customers in making that transformation too.”

Taking place April 24-27 at the Paris-Nord Villepinte Parc des Expositions in Paris, the tri-annual construction summit is returning with a revamped exhibition format covering earthmoving, demolition and transportation, roads, minerals and foundations, lifts and handling and the buildings and concrete sector.

It will be the first time Intermat has been staged since the 2021 event was forced to cancel due to the insurmountable challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic.

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ConstructionWorX DIGITAL Ian Roberts, Sales Manager, Ernest Doe, on behalf of CNH, Andy Huddleston Police Superintendent: Head of the National Rural Crime Unit/National Construction Agriculture Theft Team, Adam Henson BBC Presenter and Cotswold Farm, Kevin Howells, CEO of Datatag, and Stephen Howarth Agricultural Economist at the AEA (Agricultural Engineers Association), at LAMMA celebrating the protection of their 625,000th machine.

CESAR SCHEME NEWS

CESAR Scheme Marks Milestone at LAMMA Show with Kawasaki's Adoption and 625,000th Machine Protected At the recent LAMMA agricultural show, significant advancements in agricultural equipment security were highlighted. Central to these developments was the CESAR security scheme, owned by the CEA (Construction Equipment Association), a valuable tool in combatting the rising issue of equipment theft in rural areas.

Kawasaki, a leading manufacturer, announced the integration of the CESAR System, powered by Datatag, into its ATV models starting 2024.

This move, was in response to the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act 2023, represents a significant step in enhancing customer security. The CESAR system, endorsed by the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) and developed by Datatag ID Ltd, offers advanced security marking and registration, crucial in reducing theft and aiding in the recovery of stolen vehicles.

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Craig Watson, Kawasaki's Sales and Marketing Director, emphasised the importance of customer trust and security, stating that integrating the CESAR system with Datatag technologies reinforces Kawasaki's commitment to providing secure products for its customers.

Kevin Howells, CEO of Datatag, expressed pride in partnering with Kawasaki to protect their customers. The CESAR scheme, as the official industry security marking system, has shown success in theft reduction and aids law enforcement in recovering stolen vehicles. It features

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unique tamper-evident identification, including visible and concealed identifiers and a distinctive DNA solution, making it difficult for thieves to operate covertly.

Ruth Bailey, CEO of the Agricultural Engineers Association, highlighted the disruption caused by ATV theft to farm businesses and welcomed the industry-wide adoption of the CESAR scheme. Similarly, Suneeta Johal, CEO of the Construction Equipment Association and owner of the CESAR Scheme, praised Kawasaki's decision as a testament to the industry's united front against equipment theft.

A landmark achievement for CESAR was celebrated at LAMMA with the protection of their 625,000th machine. This milestone highlights the industry's trust in CESAR's security provisions. Ian Roberts, Sales Manager at Ernest Doe, representing CNH (Case New Holland), received a symbolic CESAR identification plate, numbered 625,000, from Kevin Howells, MD of Datatag ID Ltd. CESAR's latest innovations, including the CESAR ECV for verifying a machine's emissions status and the integration of Ultra High-Frequency RFID transponders, were showcased. The new RAPID machine check system, allowing police officers to swiftly verify a machine's status via smartphone, further cements the CESAR Scheme’s industry leadership.

The show also spotlighted a Triotrac X Range self-propelled feed mixer, now equipped with the CESAR security scheme. Manufactured by Dutch company, Trioliet, this machine stands out for its large capacity, capable of handling up to 32 cubic meters and extracting silage up to 8 meters high. This is the largest machine that has been protected with CESAR! Fitted with unique identification features, including tamperproof ID plates and hidden RFID transponders, the Triotrac gains an added layer of protection, underlining supplier’s, Pontesbury Tractors Ltd's commitment to safeguarding essential farming equipment.

The CESAR scheme offers numerous benefits, including no annual fees, lifetime registration on a secure database, and support from a 24/7 UK Secure Contact Centre. Its widespread adoption, evidenced by over 625,000 protected machines, not only deters theft but can also lead to lower insurance premiums and quick police access for stolen equipment identification.

Kevin Howells, CEO of Datatag, Bart Koekkoek Product Manager Trioliet and Paul ‘Tex’ Hamer Pontesbury Tractors, fitting the CESAR Triangle to the largest machine that the Scheme has protected.

Heading to a working farm.

For more information about the CESAR Scheme and its impact on reducing equipment theft, interested parties are encouraged to visit CESAR Scheme website.

Craig Watson, Kawasaki's Sales and Marketing Director, Adam Henson BBC Presenter and Adam Henson's Cotswold Farm, Stephen Howarth Agricultural Economist at the AEA (Agricultural Engineers Association), Andy Huddleston Police Superintendent: Head of the National Rural Crime Unit / National Construction Agriculture Theft Team and Kevin Howells, CEO of Datatag celebrates the integration of the industry-leading CESAR Security System, powered by Datatag, into all its Kawasaki utility models beginning in 2024.

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Iceland contractors get connected in a digital revolution Peter Haddock visits three of the leading contractors ISTAK, Grafa og Grjót (Grafa) and IAV, who are all using the MachineMax telemetry solution to reduce fuel burn and idle time whilst reporting on CO2 emissions and much more.

The first visit was with ISTAK to a major road infrastructure project stretching 19km in a remote location six hours drive from the capital Reykjavík. Once complete, the new road will transform the network, taking around 11km off the existing main road We travelled to the site with Fleet Manager, Hjálmar Örn Arnarson and were greeted by a fleet of Caterpillar equipment, including off-highway trucks, wheel loaders, excavators, a roller, and a dozer.

Hjálmar: “Our fleet of 772G Caterpillar trucks will have to make over 18,000 journeys to move more than 500,000 cubic metres of material to complete the road. We are also using a Cat 374 excavator, Cat 988K XE wheel loader, Cat D6 XE electric drive dozer and a Cat CS78B vibratory soil compactor on the project. So, this project is all about productivity.

"And this is why we started using the MachineMax system in April 2023, with this being the important test project. Now, we have over 300 assets in our wider company fleet connected and use the information provided every day.

"The impact on this project has been significant as we were originally achieving 15 loads per day for each of our trucks. But today, they now handle up to 18 loads thanks to the changes we have made.

"For example, as soon as we had every machine connected, we could see exactly what was and is still going on onsite and where we had hotspots impacting productivity.

"By analysing this information, we identified both machine idling and high fuel usage, leading to us making changes like widening haul roads and reducing the overall fleet truck speeds.

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"You might ask why speed reduction was so important? This was all about levelling out our site journeys as some trucks went faster than others, so we were catching up and then excessively idling whilst waiting in a queue.

"We also eliminated trucks stopping to pass each other and created other road improvements to make site journeys easier and safer. This involved more work initially, but the payback has been substantial.

"All of these changes were put into place in just two months, during which time we increased machine utilisation by 5% whilst similarly reducing idle activity by around 5%. This has led to a dramatic increase in productivity with fewer emissions per tonne of material moved.”

For my second visited, I went to see Johan Henrik, a site manager for another earthworks contractor, Grafa. We met on a house building project to see a Hyundai HX520Al excavator equipped with an FRD Furukawa FXJ770 4800kg silent breaker, and a JCB JS145 wheeled excavator, carrying out enabling works.

Talking to Johan, he explained how the business has been addressing numerous challenges, from refuelling to servicing and locating key attachments.

Johan: "Every day, one of my colleagues does the early morning rounds with our bowser filling up our equipment. Before we started using the MachineMax system, he would go around sites and try to find the equipment. He would then return to base and go out operating one of our ADT's.

"The challenge, however, was when he couldn't find a machine which

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might have been moved or tucked away on site. This would mean he would later on in the day have to down tools and go and refuel, a costly time-wasting issue that just doesn’t happen now.

Standing next to the Hyundai, Johan also pointed out the MachineMax GPS magnetic sensor, which comes with its own rechargeable battery that he had attached to the breaker.

Johan: "We have a lot of very expensive attachments and no way of easily understanding how much they are being used and when they should be serviced. Adding a sensor means we can now collect this data and locate all our attachments through a single dashboard and see them all on our 50-inch touchscreen in the office.

"But the biggest impact has been how we have transformed our machine idling time. After an initial few weeks of data analysis, which showed idling was at 35%, it has taken us just a few months of changing behaviours and working as a team to drop this to 12.28%. This is a huge improvement that has led to significant fuel savings and, of course, a reduction in CO2.

For the final visit, I went to see ÍAV, a contractor that also runs its own mine, as well as a varied mixed fleet of 60 units, including a newly arrived EW160E Volvo wheeled excavator with Steelwrist tiltrotator.

I met IAV Fleet Manager Heiðar Jón Heiðarsson at its mine, where two 580 Liebherr wheel loaders and a Volvo L180H were performing loading and stockpiling applications.

Here Heiðar explained how the business has a mandatory obligation to report on its CO2 emissions to key clients on a weekly basis: Heiðar: "It's a task that took a long time to compile on spreadsheets before we started using the MachineMax data capture on our machines.

Now, our reports are available at the click of a button.

"And the real bonus is we have reallocated our team member to the more important tasks of looking at our data and idling time, which has ultimately led to us boosting our productivity."

Heiðar has also been using data to determine its future fleet mix.

"With the information pulled from our fleet using API's provided by the OEMs, we can now measure the performance of one machine against another.

"This helps us to determine the overall cost of ownership and, more importantly, the cost per tonne of material used. It is particularly useful in the cases of our large wheel loaders. And for equipment that is underutilised we can look at fleet disposals at various times in our project cycles.

In addition, for the mine, we have also looked at the site layout, making adjustments to haul road gradients, stockpile locations and loading areas to reduce fuel burn and idle time.”

Having witnessed three vastly different businesses and

their approach to adopting the same telemetry solution, you can see just how complicated our industry can be.

Each item of equipment on a fleet performs in a different way, and the tasks can be very variable, but when you know the hotspots of idling, for example, you can make simple changes to the site or behaviours that make a big difference.

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