Increasing Footprint in India
In 2013, Kubota started selling Mini Excavators in India through its distributor and has sold around 1500+ units till date. The India Excavators Market size is expected to grow twofold in the next two years due to urban and rural developments across the country. Growing private and public infrastructure projects, increasing economic development activities, in addition to increasing government spending on key projects such as Housing for all, Smart City projects and road networks across the country are some of the major factors which will drive demand for mini excavators in India.
Product Range
Kubota mini excavators offer cutting-edge technology that sets standards in modern construction both in terms of quality and performance. In India, Kubota offers three variants in the mini-excavator segment: U17-3, U30-6S and U50-5S with 1.7, 3 and 5 tonnage capacities, respectively. It is now planning to add a few more variants for which a market study is in progress.
Technology & Safety
All 3 Kubota mini excavators are fitted with control monitoring systems to analyze 90 days of the machine’s historic data and alert the operator to ensure safety of the machine. In addition, each machine is powered by Kubota E-VTCS engine, and is equipped with auto-idle load-sensing hydraulics to deliver unmatched performance on work sites.
Kubota machines are carefully designed for safety to protect the operator while providing a comfortable and reliable operator space. All Kubota machines offer FOPS/ROPS canopy (with seat belts) to enhance operator safety. Additionally, each machine has been equipped with dial type accelerator, engine start safety system, travel motor with disc brake, swivel motor, with disc brake and boom lowering system when ignition goes off, to guarantee high safety and premium comfort.
Strategic Differentiator: Aftermarket Services
Kubota believes in keeping the customer at the centre of every product. Be it its top-rated product portfolio or the top-of-the-line aftermarket support, all the offerings are focused on ensuring best-in-class customer experience. Each customer is assured of reliable, quality service and genuine spare parts. At the same time, well-trained staff in the field are always at hand to swiftly address service concerns.
Key Initiatives in Upskilling
To meet the operating standards of advanced machines, operators need to be trained and skilled. Kubota machines are very operator-friendly, and one can easily learn how to operate them in a shorter time. Kubota continuously initiates various training programs at dealerships to educate and qualify operators on operating techniques, safety, and easy maintenance skills. In future, Kubota will also certify qualified operators on the successful completion of training programs.
Emerging Markets for Mini Excavators
In recent times, the renting or leasing of mini excavators has been on the rise, owing to the procurement cost and the cost of maintenance. At the customers’ end, renting along with the required professional operators is in practice. Kubota may consider the mini excavator rental business as a new vertical in the future considering demand and industry growth.
Future Business Outlook
The mini excavator industry is expected to reach more than 2000 units of sales in the year 2022. Kubota is studying market feasibility to add more products to the mini excavators’ portfolio and is also working to expand its dealership network across India.
