Page 12 - Construction_Opportunities_September_2024

COVER STORY

is increasing. The brand, from Komatsu, aims to deliver be able to see.
technology that helps reduce costs and time on construction In addition, camera systems are being added to machines that
sites by deploying mixed software and hardware solutions across not only increase rear view but all-around view as well (AVMs).
earthmoving and construction. The engagement in equipment These AVMs are dramatically increasing an operator’s perspective
such as 3D Machine Guidance has doubled since the launch of the job site. He or she no longer spends valuable job time
in 2023. Other solutions that have seen annual growth include checking the site manually. These cameras afford 270 degrees of
Dashboard, a data collection tool that combines the 3D design visibility, substantially decreasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
data with aerial mapping and intelligent machine data to create Progress in creating autonomy in the construction equipment
a digital twin that allows stakeholders to gain instant access to industry is perhaps the most significant trend as we progress, as
critical data. it encompasses all the goals of the industry. Manufacturers are
The global trend for all vehicles is continued progress toward investing in technology that allows equipment to be monitored
becoming carbon neutral. The automotive industry has been and controlled remotely. Some are currently testing excavators
transformed with this goal in mind, and 2024 is finding that and wheel loaders that can even effectively perform without an
construction machinery is making huge strides in this area as well. operator in the cab.
These electric machines offer fuel savings (the cost of diesel fuel
remaining the foremost expense for the operator) and reduced Setting the Trend:
toxic emissions in the environment. Unfortunately, charging time The compaction equipment industry in India is witnessing robust
of electric equipment has been a challenge to the construction growth, driven by substantial investments in infrastructure, urban
industry, where every hour counts toward (or against) getting the development projects, and road construction. As the third-
job done on time. Again, technology is the hero in this story. It largest construction equipment market globally, India’s demand
is evolving to lessen charging time for these massive vehicles, for compaction equipment continues to rise. Technological
so operators are finding that they can cut charging hours while advancements are also shaping the market, with companies
prioritizing the health of our environment. integrating smart diagnostics for enhanced monitoring and
For those machines that currently continue to demand diesel efficiency. Currently, the market size is estimated at around 5000
fuel, manufacturers are exploring technology that will at least machines in 2023, with an overall increase
lower the emission of that fuel. This is resulting in longer operation in sales of 35% compared to 2022. Q1
with less harm to the environment. In addition to using advanced of 2024 has shown similar market size
technology toward energy savings, manufactures are making compared to 2023 and we are expecting
safety a priority. Heavy machines are being equipped with object the market to grow by 8% on YoY basis.
detection proximity sensors and blind spot monitors, which emit According to Dimitrov Krishnan, MD,
a loud sound when objects are near that the operator might not Volvo CE India, “Volvo CE integrates

12 CONSTRUCTION OPPORTUNITIES|SEPTEMBER 2024