Two electric mobile excavators for Westra in Franeker

Staad is naturally pleased with every new machine sold, but when two mobile excavators - and fully electric ones at that - can be delivered at the same time, that makes one extra proud. Westra BV from Franeker sees this as an opportunity to give its machine fleet a sustainable boost.

For twin brothers Pieter and Feite Westra, the commissioning of two zero-emission 17-ton machines also represents a special milestone. After all, they are the first two zero-emission excavators to be used in the Northwest Friesland region. For years, Westra has been trying to save fuel in innovative ways to reduce machine emissions. By choosing zero-emission, the family business is making a powerful statement that fits perfectly into the overall picture. After all, with its own windmill and over 2,800 solar panels on its roofs, Westra takes sustainability very seriously.

Demand increases

As the demand from the market for emission-free equipment grows, the specialist in green space, soil, infra and rental started a targeted search for a machine that meets this requirement. "The starting point is that an electric tire crane simply has to be able to run for eight to ten hours in a row. No hassle with interim charging," says Feite Westra. The choice fell on the DX165W Electric, developed and supplied by Staad Electric. The machine has a replaceable Powerbox 400 of 400 kWh, good for 10 to 14 hours of work on a single battery charge. And if that's not enough, the battery pack can be changed in five minutes.

Using a 600V high-voltage system not only increases the safety and reliability of the machines, it also makes more efficient use of energy. As a result, these electric powerhouses help spread energy demand on projects where power supply is limited. Staad places a high priority on service and responds to issues surrounding charging infrastructure, such as mobile or interchangeable power boxes, with its Fusion brand and Energy as a Service service. There are even contracts available for the supply of green energy at the project site, including transportation. This means that machines can also be supplied without a battery pack, significantly lowering the purchase price. 

Real rental toppers

Westra had both excavators equipped with many extras, including an engcon rotary tilt with gripper, DropsaVET automatic grease lubrication, BMair/Freshfilter overpressure preparation, Topcon 3D-GPS and a complete Eurosteel bucket set. We also see Nokian GroundKare tires and steel, width-adjustable fenders. These are still being customized at the customer's request. Initial reactions from the market are positive. "They are real rental toppers," judges Feite. "They do exactly what they are supposed to do: powerful, quiet and reliable. Much less noise penetrates the cabin, which is a real relief for the operators. And the work? It goes just as fast as with a diesel machine."

Although both acquisitions do basically the same job as the mobile Develon at this nearly 100-year-old company, Feite notes that it is different nonetheless. "Working emission-free requires a different way of thinking within the entire organization, from machinist to mechanic and from planner to foreman. It also comes with a different price tag, otherwise it simply won't work out. If it is technically and financially feasible, we will continue. The goal is to work as emission-free as possible by 2030. We want to offer total solutions and don't like to sell 'no'. If you don't have them, you can have them.
not rent them out either. Now they are both rented out for six months, which confirms that it was a good move."

Emission-free transportation

The sustainable course of the Frisian family business is not limited to equipment. The machine drivers drive electric cars, and early this year Westra signed for the delivery of two Mercedes eActros 600 tractors. This will soon allow the electric excavators to be transported to the construction site emission-free as well. The DX165W Electric is known for its endurance and power, which ensures top performance in the 17-ton class. "In addition, it sits nicely in the hand, is super quiet and just makes working a pleasure," concludes Feite Westra. "When you see how smoothly the operator lays down the pavers with the help of Topcon 3D-GPS, you know that these machines are not only durable, but also really good."     

Staad at the TKD

Staad Electric is the leader in the Netherlands when it comes to zero-emission excavators, and deliveries are also rapidly increasing outside our borders - particularly in Scandinavian countries. Thus, the company is making a substantial contribution to the energy transition in the construction industry. Based on the quality and reliability of Develon, but with an innovative Dutch sauce. From a mobile excavator to even a 55-tonner on tracks. Curious about what Staad has to offer you? They will be at TKD with the joint Develon dealers (stand 145), but also with their own stand as Staad manufacturer (stand 72).