Powerful battery platform for heavy-duty work

The electrification of construction and civil engineering machines is in full swing. With the powerful XGT platform (40V and 2x40V), Makita is committed to sustainable, powerful and future-proof solutions for professionals in the landscaping, construction, and ground, road and hydraulic engineering sectors, among others.
More than 230 machines are now running on this platform.

Designed for tougher work, Makita's XGT platform offers a full-fledged alternative to fuel and 230V machines. The technology focuses on maximum performance, durability and ease of use. "We are increasingly differentiating ourselves from other brands with this strong and innovative platform," says Arjen Peeters, Supervisor OPE & Business Development at Makita Netherlands. "Makita started developing electric motors back in 1915, which gives us quite a head start. An important part within XGT is the digital communication between battery and machine, where power is dynamically tuned. This makes the machines not only powerful, but also efficient and safe to use." The machines feature brushless motors and software controllers for optimal tuning.

Developments are rapid. Makita is constantly expanding the XGT platform with new machines. Like the 355 mm cutter with a power comparable to 70 cc fuel machines and impact wrenches with a release torque of up to 4,000 Nm. Also available are powerful cordless circular saws, augers, vibrators and combination systems. All machines used in the construction and maintenance of roads, railroad lines and infrastructure. 

Smart charging for the working day

Of course, the range also includes smart charging solutions. Such as the BCC01 and BCC02 charging boxes, which allow eight to twelve batteries to be charged simultaneously at a normal 230V socket. The batteries are fully charged in about ten hours. Because they are slow chargers, there is less heat generation. In addition, you can connect four charging boxes to one outlet without any problems. In short: charging up to 48 batteries on one socket. "In this we are making great strides. We are always looking at how we can help the professional user carry enough energy to work a whole day in a safe and responsible way. And of course we also have fast chargers in the program, to be able to continue working quickly during the day." The charging boxes are stackable and linkable to the M-box system and trolleys, making them easy to transport to the work site. Makita also considers future regulations surrounding battery charging on construction sites when developing charging systems. Internal protection and separate compartments keep batteries safe, even during heavy use.

Batteries without energy loss

Makita continuously develops new battery technologies. The new BL4040F battery (4.0 Ah) features so-called tabless cells, which conduct current through the cell more efficiently. Peeters: "This prevents heat generation, increases service life and reduces energy loss. This compact battery delivers the same performance as a 5.0 Ah model. This keeps ergonomics optimal, even with machines such as a tophandle chainsaw, where weight plays a major role."

For professionals who want to work for long periods of time, Makita introduced the PDC1500 back battery. Equipped with the same digital communication system as XGT, it offers significantly greater endurance. An ergonomic carrying system allows users to work with it comfortably for long periods of time. 

A strength of the XGT platform is its interchangeability. The batteries can be used on a wide range of tools, from chainsaws to drill/break hammers. As a result, a professional can use one type of battery to power virtually any machine on a project. 

Sustainable and future-proof

The benefits of electric work are well known by now: reduced emissions, lower noise and low maintenance costs. Moreover, thanks to Makita's unique digital communication between battery and machine, future batteries will be compatible with existing XGT machines. Thus, users will not have to renew their entire fleet of machines when new battery technology becomes available.

A European advertising campaign is currently underway to draw attention to the XGT platform. Says Peeters, "We want to show that with this we have a unique platform with an interchangeability of now 230 machines. Thanks to digital communication, our own brushless motors and unique controllers for each machine, they can perform to the maximum. A whole new generation, in other words. The campaign is running in 28 countries over the next few months. By distributing a lot of video material and using influencers, among others, no one will soon be able to ignore Makita's XGT platform."