Kubota focuses on comfort and technology for new compact excavator

It’s not uncommon for installers to spend a significant amount of time in the cab of an excavator breaking ground and preparing a site. Not only does the equipment need to handle the task, but it’s also important that it provides operators with a level of comfort for long hours behind the controls. 

Kubota recently announced a new compact excavator, the KX057-5, which replaces the KX057-4 and offers improved technology and ample cabin space. 

“Our new excavator models are built on the solid engineering our customers expect, and now feature more technology, much quieter cabs and many comfort features,” says Patrick Baker, construction equipment product manager for Kubota.

The interior features a double adjustable seat, with both joystick consoles on the left and right of the seat also independently adjustable. Air conditioning ducts direct air to the back of the operator’s neck to keep users cool, and the cab design has enhanced legroom from previous models. 

The KX057-5 direct injected engine pushes 47.6 hp and is now available for the first time with an optional keyless start. The engine can be started with a four-digit code with up to 10 preset user passwords. The excavator is available in canopy or cab models and has a working range that includes a digging depth of 12 feet 9 inches with the bucket breakout force of 10,172 pounds. 

Operators can also choose to rig the excavator with a rear-view camera or travel alarm. Each unit comes with LED work lights, which can be programmed to turn off 30 seconds to two minutes after the engine has stopped. 

“We are truly taking care of our operators with these new units,” Baker says. A fully opening bonnet and an arrangement of internal parts are engineered for efficient service and shorter downtime. The engine also utilizes an automatic regeneration system that performs diesel particulate filtration automatically before soot reaches a critical level, so the operator doesn’t need to stop working to clean the filter manually. 

The KX057-5 also utilizes an electrically controlled automatic activation of the third line hydraulic return, so operators no longer need to step down from the cab and reach under the bonnet to manually open and close the return. 888-458-2682; www.kubotausa.com