Construcciones Yamaro: Komatsu’s Boots On returns with debut of PC220LCi-12 excavator
After a seven-year hiatus, Komatsu’s ‘Boots On’ event made a bold comeback in June, bringing together construction, utility and digital site solutions. Set against the bush surroundings of Hunter Plant Operator Training School in Cessnock, New South Wales, the event gave attendees a chance to jump in the cab, see machines at work and talk directly with the people behind the controls.
It was also the stage for a headline debut: the PC220LCi-12 excavator, marking the first major redesign in Komatsu’s 24-tonne class in almost 20 years.
“This is a clean-sheet redesign,” says Mark Boyes, national business manager for construction excavators and mobile crushers. “New hydraulics, new engine, new layout and critically, a fully integrated intelligent Machine Control (iMC) 3.0 system.”
The soon-to-be-launched iMC 3.0 platform brings enhanced automation to everyday tasks, with improved cut accuracy, faster response times and fewer passes required.
“It introduces features that give operators more control, more safety and more flexibility. One of the major upgrades is 3D boundary control – a safety enhancement that helps prevent the machine from breaching defined work limits,” says Boyes.
“We’ve also introduced in-field design capabilities, so operators can make quick adjustments without needing to return to the office. It’s about smarter, safer and more autonomous operation, which ultimately means more productivity and less downtime.”
Most notably, the PC220LCi-12 comes with a newly designed cab. Built in direct response to operator feedback, the cab focuses on comfort, safety and all-day usability.
“Every component has been carefully engineered to meet the real-world demands of modern worksites,” says Boyes.
The PC220LCi-12 with iMC 3.0 reflects a growing shift toward semi-autonomous functionality on construction sites and builds on Komatsu’s push to embed intelligence directly into its fleet. But it was far from the only attraction. Across multiple zones, the company showcased its response to market trends, from decarbonisation and digitalisation to machine versatility and operator comfort.
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Site-wide intelligence
James Muir, general manager for Smart Construction, guided attendees through Komatsu’s digital site technology, from retrofit-ready 3D Machine Guidance (3DMG) systems to semi-autonomous iMC machines.
“3DMG can be applied to excavators, dozers and wheel loaders, giving operators guidance aligned to the construction plan,” says Muir.
iMC 3.0 takes performance a step further. By automating key functions, it reduces errors and speeds up tasks.
“For example, on a bulldozer, it can control the blade to optimise the cut according to the design. So, you start to get semi-autonomous features built into the machine,” says Muir.
“These machines are accurate to within three centimetres. That means the job gets done right the first time. There’s no double handling of material or reworking cuts.
“That accuracy translates into major efficiency gains on site. It saves time, reduces fuel use, cuts machine operating costs and lowers emissions, because we’re not burning extra fuel to redo work.”
It’s a benefit for new operators – crucial at a time when the industry is grappling with a global labour shortage, fierce competition for fresh talent and an ageing workforce.
“One of the benefits of semi-autonomous technology is that we can train people faster,” says Muir. “It allows new operators to become highly efficient in a much shorter period.”
Feedback from younger operators has been especially strong.
“For them, it’s almost like jumping into a video game,” says Muir. “They’re watching a screen, it’s all digitised, and they pick it up quickly. They’re really enjoying the experience.”
Komatsu’s approach is site-wide, not machine-specific. Its Smart Construction suite includes agnostic solutions that work across mixed fleets, from drones to terrain capture tools and mobile retrofits. 3DMG Flex, for example, can be installed not only on Komatsu machines but also on third-party models and utility vehicles, helping operators capture real-time data on “as-built” terrain.
“Komatsu has invested significantly in Smart Construction, and it’s becoming a key part of the future of our machines. Integration between construction machinery and digital technologies is growing year by year,” says Muir.
“We’re looking at site-wide efficiency and safety. For example, the incorporated 3D boundary control technology in the new iMC 3.0 PC220LCi-12 can set a height and depth limit to avoid powerlines and utilities.
“Everything we’re doing now is to improve the entire ecosystem of construction. The machine is just one part of that ecosystem.”
Hybrid gains
The HB215LC-3 hybrid excavator was another standout. By pairing an electric capacitor with motor generators, the machine can run the hydraulic pump while the engine idles at low speed, cutting fuel use without impacting productivity.
“In the right application, this machine can be up to 25 per cent more fuel efficient than comparable conventional models,” says Boyes.
The hybrid unit also supports Komatsu’s 3DMG, which provides real-time payload and bucket tip data. And with KomVision, a 360-degree camera system, the HB215LC-3 adds an additional layer of safety on constrained worksites.
“For projects where fuel efficiency, emissions reduction and reliable performance in the 20-tonne class are priorities, the HB215LC-3 is a strong option,” says Boyes. “It brings together hybrid technology and trusted Komatsu reliability into one very capable package.”
Dozers with edge
Komatsu’s construction dozers were also on display, including heavy-duty earthmovers.
“Our dozer fleet spans from the smaller D39 up to the 50-tonne D275, giving customers plenty of choice depending on the job at hand,” says Pat Munro, national business manager for construction dozers and graders.
The D71PXi dozer, featuring a 3M folding power-angle-tilt (PAT) blade, was a crowd favourite.
“It stays under the 3-metre width limit when folded,” says Munro. “That means it can be floated between sites without a pilot vehicle, which is a major cost saving for transport and logistics.”
The PAT blade is unique to Komatsu’s ‘One Series’ dozers – D51, D61 and D71 – making them suited to finish grading and detailed work.
On the other hand, the ‘Five Series’ dozers – D65, D85, D155 and D275 – are designed for bulk earthworks, with external push arms that make them ideal for heavy dozing. But with iMC 2.0 now fitted across the range, they’re more versatile than ever. With the right conditions, even larger models can achieve final-grade accuracy.
“All the iMC dozers at Boots On are running the latest 2.0 version, which includes two antennas supporting multiple GNSS, quick surface creation, lift layer control, proactive dozing control and tilt steering control,” says Munro. “These upgrades are aimed at making operators more efficient while reducing rework.”
Komatsu also brought a used D61 to support training around equipment appraisal. The machine was used to walk through key inspection points and demonstrate lifecycle support in action.
“Everything we’ve put on display is about showing customers how Komatsu’s technology, design and machine options come together to suit real-world jobs,” says Munro. “Whether it’s reducing transport headaches, increasing operator productivity, or helping crews achieve tighter tolerances with less effort, the aim is to deliver practical benefits that flow right through a project.”
Compact and capable
At the smaller end of the fleet, Komatsu’s utility excavators drew attention for their versatility and site-friendly design. From 1.8-tonne mini excavators to 9-tonne machines, the range is built for mobility and ease of use on tight urban sites.
A standout was the PC25MR-5, designed to fill a gap between the company’s 1.8-tonne and 3.5-tonne models.
“At around 2.7 tonnes, it is light enough to be towed behind a typical ute like a Hilux or Ranger,” says Carl Grundy, national sales manager for utility.
Also drawing attention at Boots On was the PC88MR-11, a Tier 4 Final machine that eliminates the need for AdBlue by using a passive regeneration system. Loaded with operator-friendly details, from automatic climate control to fully opening service panels, it shows a step up in comfort and maintainability
“The PC88MR-11 is packed with features – five different operating modes, two-speed travel, and a choice of steel or road-liner tracks,” says Grundy. “It has a fully tinted cabin, an overhead protective guard for added operator safety, and a much-improved layout for servicing.”
The PC55MR-5 remains a customer favourite, available in both canopy and enclosed cab configurations.
“The two-post canopy makes it easy to access and is ideal for tight worksites where space and visibility are critical,” says Grundy.
And the versatile PC35MR-5 continues to attract users across civil construction, landscaping and utilities.
“It is a highly versatile machine that suits a wide range of applications,” says Grundy. “I’ve got a real soft spot for the 35 – it is just a solid, well-balanced performer.”
Innovation meets application
The defining feature of ‘Boots On’ was how tightly Komatsu has aligned its machines and technologies with the practical demands of Australian contractors. Whether the focus is tighter grading tolerance, lower fuel burn, safer work zones or operator onboarding, each product on display was engineered with field challenges in mind.
As Muir puts it, “It’s not just about the machine anymore; it’s about the entire construction site.”
By bringing that philosophy to life across every machine class, Komatsu’s return to ‘Boots On’ offered a tangible look at how the future of site work will take shape – where equipment, insight and operator experience come together.
The post Komatsu’s Boots On returns with debut of PC220LCi-12 excavator appeared first on Inside Construction.
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