Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/85677
Z7 loaders hipments started this April on the fi rst two models of Kawasaki's Z7 wheel loader lineup, the 85Z7 and the 90Z7. These will be joined by four ad- ditional Z7 machines by the end of this year, with an eventual 15 models in the line. S "The Z7 is a dramatically different machine," says Gary Bell, vice pres- ident-general manager, Kawasaki product report | by Marcia Gruver Doyle sport new styling Kawasaki intros fi rst two models of 15-machine lineup Construction Machinery Corporation of America, noting that both Kawa- saki and Hitachi engineers worked on the machine, the result of a joint venture that began in 2008. "Virtu- ally every part is new." Immediately apparent is the series' new styling and all-new cab, offering enhanced visibility and cab pressurization. Both machines offer a package of previously optional equipment as standard, including an integrated backup camera, forward/reverse switch, battery disconnect switch, turn signals with fl ashers and lifting eyes. Limited slip differential will be standard on the 85ZV models and under. Kawasaki says the new line up offers lower operating costs and fuel-effi cient variable displacement piston pumps. "Kawasaki is a leader in piston pumps in excavators (not sold in North America), but we've never used them in our loaders," Bell says. "They are much more fuel effi cient, since they only use energy when the Kawasaki is adding a new building at its Newnan, Georgia, plant to handle Z7 production, which replaces the ZV-2 series. EquipmentWorld.com | May 2012 53