With construction’s growing labor shortage and rising project demand, construction companies are pressed now more than ever to streamline and innovate. In the heavy equipment sector, Lumina is making big moves that make a big impact. They’re making it their mission to build autonomous electric dozers that reduce costs and emissions, while also serving marginalized communities.
The growing demand for eco-friendly equipment
The construction industry is not just rising in project demand. It’s also under pressure like never before to cut costs, reduce emissions, and improve safety. Many jurisdictions have implemented more stringent environmental regulations and carbon reduction targets, prompting companies and contractors to seek solutions that meet all requirements.
Enter, autonomous AI-powered construction vehicles. Electric dozers like the ones from Lumina are a way to comply with regulations, save money, and combat ongoing workforce challenges. They require minimal human oversight, can work without pause, and reduce the risk of human-operated errors.
Autonomous equipment including autonomous electric dozers, present an emerging way of future-proofing operations.
Removing the roadblocks
Lumina’s dozers are far from the first time we’ve seen electrification on site. Traditionally, dozers have relied on diesel engines for maximum performance, and many efforts to electrify have resulted in slower operation, poorer power, and reduced capabilities. By identifying these shortcomings, Lumina has developed its battery-powered machine to deliver the equivalent strength and control of conventional diesel-run vehicles.
To see their main product in action, the ML6 MoonLander dozer, check out this video:
Core features for their main product, the ML6 MoonLander dozer, include:
- Maximum output of 750 horsepower
- A 414 kWh battery system
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- Autonomous control and navigation
- A modular 32-ton platform
The initial prototype of their autonomous electric dozer is complete, and Lumina is working on growing the fleet and further refining the autonomous operation capacity to include more construction applications. For Lumina, this marks the beginning of an industry-wide shift towards smarter, eco-friendly practices. The next piece of equipment on Lumina’s to-launch list? Blade Runner—a 100-ton electric excavator.
Additional machines are in the works at Lumina, and the industry can expect a well-rounded autonomous fleet to be available in the market soon.
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