The construction industry is at a pivotal moment as electric equipment begins to challenge diesel’s long-standing dominance. With innovative products like DEVELON’s Concept X-2 machines being tested and Takeuchi’s TB20e entering the market, electric machines are proving their value, but is the industry ready for a major shift?
1. The Reality of Electric Equipment Adoption
Electric construction equipment is gaining momentum, especially in use cases where emissions, noise, and efficiency are top concerns. Diesel remains the standard for its unmatched power and well-established infrastructure, but electric models are starting to fill key roles, particularly in urban settings, enclosed environments, and projects with strict environmental regulations.
While adoption is growing, widespread replacement of diesel is still a gradual process. Battery technology and charging infrastructure are steadily improving, and as they do, more contractors will begin to view electric equipment as a practical alternative. But for now, adoption remains selective, based on application and site needs.
2. Disadvantages Compared to Diesel
Despite its promise, electric equipment comes with some limitations that contractors must consider. Limited runtime requires planned charging breaks, which can disrupt workflows. Charging stations are not yet widely available on remote or high-traffic job sites, making logistics a potential challenge.
Electric machines also come with a higher upfront cost, even if they offer savings over time through lower fuel and maintenance expenses. The additional weight of batteries can affect mobility and payload, and in some demanding applications, electric models may not yet deliver the same raw power or endurance as their diesel counterparts. For contractors relying on maximum uptime and flexibility, these factors remain significant hurdles.
3. Objections on Real Job Sites
Performance in real-world conditions remains a concern. Contractors often question whether electric machines can maintain full power over a long shift, especially in extreme temperatures or harsh environments. Some are hesitant to introduce electric units into mixed fleets due to the complexity of coordinating charging with diesel fueling schedules.
Logistical concerns, such as limited charging options, unclear maintenance requirements, and untested durability, contribute to a cautious approach across much of the industry. Until more field data and support infrastructure are available, many contractors are taking a wait-and-see approach.
4. Advantages According to DEVELON and Takeuchi
Manufacturers like DEVELON and Takeuchi are highlighting the clear benefits of electric equipment. Zero on-site emissions make electric machines ideal for projects where air quality or regulatory compliance is a concern. Quieter operation enhances safety and communication, particularly in noise-sensitive environments such as urban centers or indoor work zones.
Electric equipment also has the potential to reduce long-term operating costs, thanks to lower fuel expenses, reduced maintenance, and fewer moving parts. For jobs where emissions and noise restrictions apply, or where sustainability is a core value, electric machines can offer real, measurable advantages.
5. Trends from Bandit and Other Vendors
Electrification and automation are not limited to just a few manufacturers. While vendors like Bandit and others in the construction equipment space are not actively exploring these technologies, many are pushing forward with electric equipment testing and production. Although many efforts remain in early development stages, we’re already seeing advances in remote operation, semi-autonomous features, and electric powertrains.
As regulations tighten and customer demand for cleaner, smarter equipment grows, vendors are responding with innovation. In the coming years, expect more options across more equipment categories and greater integration of automation and electric systems into standard fleets.
6. Solving Labor Challenges Through Technology
Labor shortages continue to challenge the construction industry, and electric and automated equipment provides a practical response. With simplified operation, reduced maintenance, and improved efficiency, these technologies allow fewer operators to do more, making it easier to keep projects on schedule with leaner crews.
By easing training requirements and minimizing downtime, contractors can stretch their teams further without sacrificing productivity. In many ways, electric and automated machines don’t just support the future of construction; they help solve some of the most immediate issues facing the industry today.
Visit your nearest ACT Construction Equipment location or call us today at 800-462-2447 to schedule a demo or request a quote.