Komatsu, the 103-year-old Japanese manufacturing giant, is making its debut at CES 2025, showcasing its cutting-edge innovations in extreme construction technology. The company, renowned for its heavy machinery, has unveiled an all-electric underwater bulldozer, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable construction equipment. The prototype, which takes inspiration from a mechanical model designed in the 1970s, marks a significant shift from diesel-powered equipment to more eco-friendly electric power, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Komatsu, which operates in over 150 countries and serves industries ranging from construction to mining, has never exhibited at CES before, despite its competitors regularly using the platform to display technological advancements. However, this year, the company is seizing the opportunity to highlight its breakthrough technologies at the world’s largest consumer technology event.
The fully autonomous underwater bulldozer can currently operate at depths of up to 22.96 feet (7 meters), limited by GPS technology. However, the team is working to extend its reach to 164 feet (50 meters). Powered by a 450 kWh battery (which can be increased to 500 kWh), the bulldozer offers a six-hour run time, with the battery recharging in just four hours. It is expected to be deployed for tasks such as river dredging, ecosystem restoration, and disaster preparation.
CES 2025 offers Komatsu the chance to attract top talent in engineering, programming, and design. The company is looking to hire experts capable of advancing automation and connected technologies in construction and mining, industries known for their extreme technological demands. “Our core industries offer plenty of extreme applications that push our engineers and designers to problem-solve ground-breaking uses of technology,” said Taisuke Kusaba, CTO and President of the Development Division at Komatsu Ltd.
In a press release, Hiroyuki Ogawa, President and CEO of Komatsu Ltd, shared the company’s ambition to showcase the equipment and technologies that will shape future advancements, while also recruiting new talent to continue pushing the envelope in automation and connected products.
Attendees can visit Komatsu’s booth at CES 2025 (Booth 5316 in West Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center) to see firsthand the future of construction technology and learn about career opportunities with the company.
By Ameya Paleja