Case commercially releases ‘first’ electric backhoe loader, more EVs to come

The Case 580EV. The machine is powered by a 400-volt, 71 kWh lithium-ion battery platform that enables up to eight hours of runtime. (Image: Case Construction Equipment)

The machine originally debuted as a prototype called “Project Zeus” at ConExpo 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada, US.

The 580EV is powered by a 400-volt, 71-kWh lithium-ion battery platform that’s charged with the same type of Level 2 J1772 adapter found in automotive electric vehicles (EV). The battery platform is designed to deliver up to eight hours of operational runtime on a single charge, depending on the application.

It carries over the same dimensional loading and digging specifications and delivers the same breakout forces as Case’s four-wheel-drive, 97-hp 580SN diesel model.

The 580EV also includes an advanced thermal management system with system-specific cooling circuits, which the OEM said helps to better regulate temperatures and maintain performance in hot or cold conditions.

“Designing this machine from day one as a purpose-built EV instead of a retrofit has enabled a slew of practical innovations that will positively change the mindset for teams considering EV equipment,” said Brad Stemper, product management lead in North America for Case CE.

Additional specs for the Case EV580

The Case 580EV backhoe with Extendahoe attachment. The 14-ft (4.3m) backhoe also includes swing dampening, PowerLift/PowerBoost and electrohydraulic controls. (Image: Case Construction Equipment)

The four-wheel-drive electric backhoe uses two independent electric motors for the PowerDrive transmission and hydraulic pumps feeding the loader, backhoe and steering systems to minimize energy consumption and improve performance in loading applications.

Its 14-ft (4.3m) backhoe includes an Extendahoe, as well as features such as ProControl swing dampening, PowerLift/PowerBoost and electrohydraulic controls to improve precision and ease of use on the jobsite, Case stated.

In the cab, features include energy-efficient heating and air conditioning, an 8-in (20cm) touchscreen display, customisable work mode/sensitivity settings, push-button start and operator security codes. Multicolored, four-corner strobe lights offer adjustable colors, strobe patterns and an “always-on” feature for low-light conditions when strobes are not needed.

What about parts and components for Case’s electric backhoe?

“Case [and] CNH uses consistent logic and practice when stocking EV components or traditional components,” a Case representative told Construction Briefing. 

With contractors and builders at odds with historically tight electronics supply chains the last four years, making sure machines can be serviced was a priority for Case.

“The CNH Parts organization manages multiple depot locations throughout North America to support dealers and customers with maintenance and service related components,” said Case. “Availability of these components is to ensure uptime and timely response for service needs.”

The representative added that CNH Reman will manage battery returns/exchanges for all Case EV products.

Why EVs for Case CE?

The 3.6-tonne CL36EV electric compact wheel loader. (Image: Case Construction Equipment)

“So why EVs for Case?” asked Terry Dolan rhetorically during a press launch for the 580V. Dolan is the head Case CE in North America.

“It’s all about unlocking more opportunities for our customers,” he continued. “[And] there are more opportunities than people realise.”

Dolan said a diesel-less vehicle that produces zero emissions and minimal noise “changes the game”. With more projects requiring climate or sustainability based job-site requirements, Dolan said electric construction vehicles are already vital parts of a construction fleet.

“Whether it’s urban centres with strict noise and emission mandates, confined or congested job sites, nighttime projects or work that requires indoor operation, EVs provide a clear advantage for these kind of jobs,” he added. “EVs also open doors to winning contracts on projects that prioritize green credentials, which are becoming increasingly common in the industry.”

The release of the 580EV precedes commercial availability of Case’s 2.5-tonne CX25EV mini excavator and 3.6-tonne CL36EV compact wheel loader in the coming months. By the end of the year, Case’s EV lineup will total five machines.

“These new machines set a new benchmark in electrification and sustainable construction, and they’re a testament to our customer-centred approach to practical innovation as we expand our product portfolio,” said Dolan. “Complementing our diesel lineup, electrification brings real-world solutions to unique jobsite demands, helping urban construction contractors, utility teams, municipal crews and other contractors further improve productivity, efficiency and their bottom line.”