Top 5 Most Innovative Construction Machines of Bauma 2025

During our visit to Bauma 2025, one thing became clear: the future of new construction machines is emission-free, autonomous and smart. From hydrogen propulsion to remote machine control, megawatt charging stations and (semi-)autonomous digging and unloading.

At Bauma, the Boar team went in search of the coolest and most groundbreaking machines and innovations. Below is our top 5.

Hyundai HW155H

With the HW155H, Hyundai introduces a hydrogen-powered mobile excavator that combines emission-free work with comparable performance to diesel models in the same weight class. This 15-ton machine, powered by a 90 kW hydrogen fuel cell, offers up to 12 hours of continuous use and can be fully refueled within 10 to 20 minutes.

Key features:

• Emission-free propulsion: 90 kW fuel cell supplies power to an electric motor that drives the hydraulic system.

• Long operating time: Up to 12 hours of continuous use with fast refueling times of 10–20 minutes.

• Advanced hydrogen storage: Low-pressure, high-density system doubles capacity and increases safety.

The HW155H was developed in cooperation with Hyundai Motor's automotive division, which has been working on hydrogen drives for some time. At Bauma 2025, the Hyundai hydrogen excavator was awarded second place in the Innovation Award in the Climate Protection category.

Liebherr LiReCon

With the introduction of LiReCon (Liebherr Remote Control), Liebherr shows that digitalization and safety go hand in hand. This application makes it possible to operate heavy machinery, such as excavators and dump trucks, completely remotely.

The LiReCon cockpit offers the operator a virtual working environment with three large screens, real-time camera images and haptic controls. It is literally a remote cabin from the machine, because all joysticks and controls are the same as if the operator were sitting in the cabin of the machine in question.

What makes LiReCon special?

• 100% real-time control thanks to a fast and stable data network.

• Full machine control, including hydraulics, boom position and attachments.

• Increased safety because the operator does not have to be physically present at the workplace.

• Efficiency advantage for long or repetitive tasks, with less physical strain on the driver.

The technology can be used in selected models in the Liebherr range for handling and excavation work. With LiReCon, Liebherr shows that it is leading the way with directly applicable innovations.

Hitachi Landcross One

With the Landcros One, Hitachi is introducing a revolutionary machine that immediately draws attention to the brand's vision of the future with its design. The futuristic design is not only an eye-catcher, but also reflects the technology that lies within. This machine has been developed to provide maximum relief for operators, with smart automation that performs repetitive tasks independently, but also leaves room for manual control or full autonomy - depending on the work situation.

What sets the Landcros One apart is the flexibility in drive. Hitachi is responding to the energy transition and new emission challenges by offering a choice of three drive options:

• A traditional combustion engine for maximum compatibility in a variety of environments.

• A hydrogen engine, which allows for emission-free work without compromising on power.

• A fully electric drive with powerful battery technology for silent, sustainable use in urban or environmentally sensitive locations.

Although the Landcros One is still a concept at the moment, Hitachi clearly shows the direction it wants to take with future construction machines: sustainable, intelligent and flexible in use. An official production date has not yet been announced.

Komatsu & Dimaag F117 Mobile Megawatt Charger

Together with Dimaag, an innovative battery manufacturer, Komatsu introduces the mobile battery with the flashy name Mobile Megawatt Charger (MWCS). This modular mobile battery platform is specially designed for the construction sector.

The MWCS allows heavy electrically powered machines to be charged quickly, even when there is no mains power available. This also makes it much easier to work in inner cities where emissions play a bigger role and electric machines are the only option. Electric machines still have the disadvantage that you need a charging structure available. Komatsu and Dimaag solve this with the Mobile Megawatt Charger.

About MWCS and Dimaag:

• Modular battery platforms from Dimaag: offers standardized solutions that can be easily integrated into different machine classes.

• Fast charging infrastructure: The Mobile Megawatt Charging System (MWCS) makes it possible to charge machines quickly and efficiently, even in remote locations.

• Cooperation with OEMs: Dimaag's technology is already being used by several of the largest construction equipment manufacturers, such as Hitachi and now also Komatsu. With Hitachi, Dimaag is working on a system where batteries in an electric machine can be quickly changed, so that you can quickly continue without waiting for the machine itself to be fully charged.

CASE eCWL 12EV

With the eCWL 12EV, CASE Construction Equipment is taking a look into the future. Case foresees that the machines of the future will help the operator with semi-autonomous work and even make it possible to control machines remotely.

Key features:

• Fully electric drive: Equipped with a 23 kWh cobalt-free lithium-ion battery, the eCWL 12EV offers emission-free operation and noise reduction, ideal for urban and indoor areas. • Remote control: The traditional cab is replaced by a dedicated operator lounge, allowing the operator to operate the machine remotely, improving safety and accommodating challenging environments and operators with limited mobility.

• Advanced automation: Features an integrated perception system that collects and analyses real-time data. This system supports semi-autonomous functions such as automatic digging and unloading.

• Accessibility and ergonomics: The design promotes inclusivity by making operation accessible to operators with limited mobility, while providing an ergonomic experience with intuitive controls.

Clearly still a concept, but the eCWL 12EV is a clear indication of how CASE sees the future.