Yanmar Announces ‘Electrification Unit,’ Aimed at Developing e-Powertrain Solutions

The push for electrification in compact off-highway machinery continues to gain momentum, and Yanmar is committing to the sector with a dedicated new business unit. Launching in April 2025, Yanmar’s Electrification Unit will focus on developing e-powertrain solutions, including batteries and eDrives, to support the growing demand for zero-emissions construction and industrial equipment. From the press release:

“This initiative is a major milestone in Yanmar’s commitment to realizing our brand statement, ‘A Sustainable Future.’ The development of e-powertrains is crucial for adapting the expertise we have built with diesel engines to a broader range of applications beyond just construction and agricultural machinery, and it represents an important step towards achieving carbon neutrality.” said Tetsuya Yamamoto, Chief Operating Officer, Yanmar Holdings. “As we face the challenges of climate change and strive for a sustainable society, it is essential to accelerate the development and adoption of electric powertrains that not only enhance product performance but also contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.”

A Timely Move in a Shifting Market

Battery-powered compact equipment is still a niche concept in America, but forward-looking equipment makers are preparing for the near future. As emissions regulations tighten and industries demand quieter, cleaner machines, manufacturers are racing to develop electric alternatives. Yanmar’s decision to launch an electrification-focused unit aligns with this shift, ensuring the company stays ahead of evolving customer needs. To spearhead this transformative initiative, Marko Dekena has been appointed to lead the Electrification Unit.

“By leveraging Yanmar’s deep understanding of our customers’ needs, we are dedicated to delivering technologies that will accelerate the transition toward zero emissions,” said Marko Dekena. The new unit will draw upon Yanmar’s existing e-powertrain initiatives, such as Eleo Technologies’ battery activities, which will be integrated into the new Electrification Unit while continuing to operate on their current locations.

With expertise in diesel engines, Yanmar now aims to apply that knowledge to electric powertrains, broadening its portfolio to include electrified excavators, wheel loaders and other industrial machinery. The unit will serve three key areas:

• Yanmar-branded electric machines
• Electric solutions for OEMs
• Battery and e-powertrain components

By focusing on these segments, Yanmar is positioning itself as a leader in the transition to electric-powered compact equipment.

Eleo Technologies: A Key Acquisition in the Shift to Electric

Yanmar’s electric push didn’t start overnight. In 2022, the company acquired Eleo Technologies, a Netherlands-based battery manufacturer specializing in off-highway applications. Eleo’s battery systems are designed for durability in harsh environments, offering modularity, high power output and seamless integration with various vehicle platforms. These battery solutions will play a critical role in Yanmar’s electrification strategy, with Eleo’s expertise now integrated into the new Electrification Unit. By leveraging Eleo’s battery technology, Yanmar can deliver scalable electrification solutions for both its own equipment and OEM partners.

Last year, Eleo unveiled its new range of battery packs specifically designed for off-highway applications. These battery packs offer a scalable voltage range from 50V to 720V and a maximum continuous power output of up to 90 kW, providing robust power potential and versatility for a wide range of applications. The company’s multipack functionality allows multiple packs to be combined, enhancing system capacity and voltage with flexible integration in two orientations.

Key Benefits of Eleo Battery Packs

Service-Friendly Interface Box: Minimize service turnaround time with a design that allows for easy and quick part replacement. This eliminates the need to ship complete batteries back for repair.

Scalable Voltage Range: From 50V to 720V to accommodate various applications.

High Power Output: Maximum continuous power output of up to 90 kW.

Industry Standard Protocols: Utilizes CANOpen and J1939 communication protocols for seamless integration, providing essential data for safe and reliable operation.

Multipack Functionality: Multiple packs can be combined to enhance system capacity, with flexible integration in two orientations (90-degree rotation).

Yanmar’s Growing Electric Machine Portfolio

Yanmar has already showcased several electric machine concepts, signaling its commitment to sustainable solutions:

• SV17e Electric Mini Excavator — Launched in April 2024 for the European market, this 18.3-kWh battery-powered excavator offers two operating modes to optimize battery life and adapt to varying project demands. With its color LCD screen and pre-set hydraulic flow profiles as standard, this machine offers precise, intuitive control. While there’s no North American release date yet, it highlights Yanmar’s readiness to electrify compact equipment.
• Electric Work Machine Prototype — Unveiled in 2023, this unique cabless excavator prototype featured force control technology developed in collaboration with JAXA (Japan’s aerospace agency). This electric mini excavator aims to enhance precision and automation in construction environments of the future.
• E-Tractor Concept — Debuted at Equipment Expo 2023, this electric tractor utilizes Eleo’s advanced battery systems. The concept underscores Yanmar’s vision for electrifying agricultural and construction equipment.

What’s Next for Yanmar’s Electrification Unit?

Yanmar’s investment in electric solutions aligns with its broader Green Challenge 2050 initiative, which focuses on sustainability through electrification, hydrogen and alternative fuels. By integrating Eleo’s battery expertise, developing in-house e-powertrains and launching electric machines, Yanmar is ensuring its equipment is ready for the next generation of compact construction and industrial work.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment.

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