Huddig AB, a Sweden-based heavy equipment manufacturer, has announced delivery of its first hybrid backhoe loader to a customer. The machine passed the final testing phase of the design process in Spring 2021, prompting the company to deem it ready for the market.
"It is not only the environmental aspect of TIGON that is fascinating but also the performance of the machine. It is both stronger and more flexible, at the same time as it can run silently. HUDDIG TIGON improves the work environment - both for me and for those who work around the machine. For example, we hear each other better because the machine is quieter. It is also simple to charge. An ordinary 3-phase CEE connector, 16A or 32A is enough, which is basically available on all construction sites. It will be exciting to see more TIGON machines on the market," says Jonas Löfskog, the customer who took delivery of the backhoe loader, in Huddig's press release announcing delivery of the machine.
One of the first concept versions of the HUDDIG TIGON which was displayed at an industry event in 2018.Huddig AB
Features of the hybrid backhoe
Huddig first developed its Tigon Technology concept in 2015. The system is designed to enable backhoe loaders to run solely on electricity, diesel or a combination of electricity and diesel.
According to the company, the HUDDIG TIGON (also called the HUDDIG 1260T) contains many of the same features as its standard backhoe loaders. These include the use of a Cummins Inc. diesel engine and the 1260D control system. The control system is designed to handle the TIGON's higher processing capacity requirements, ensuring optimal machine performance for customers.
The 1260T utilizes the Tigon Technology for flexibility in the types of operating modes used -
- EV-Mode : Allows the machine to work on 100% battery power without loss in performance.
- ECO-Mode: Power the machine in as environmentally friendly a manner as possible using a mix of diesel and electricity.
- POWER-Mode: Produces extra power in an environmentally friendly way using a mix of diesel and electricity.
When operating on battery power alone (i.e. EV-Mode), the backhoe loader provides up to 2 full hours of excavating work or 20 km (12.4 mi.) travel. The diesel engine can recharge the battery as the machine is working, helping to extend active working time.
Operating in EV-Mode allows for cleaner, quieter operation. This helps to improve safety and comfort for machine operators. It also allows for use within confined spaces and prevents those near the work site—especially if in a city center—from being disturbed by noises that might otherwise be created by traditionally powered machines.
No emissions are produced when operating in EV-Mode. And if the machine is using the diesel engine, it can provide zero-emissions operation when fueled by HVO100, as well. HVO100 is a renewable diesel fuel made from 100% renewable raw materials, often through the hydrotreatment of vegetable oils and/or animal fat. It has a chemical structure which is almost identical to traditional diesel, ensuring similar performance. 
Machine control for HUDDIG machines include the digging unit and loader system, as well as the swing boom and functionality for rotating the digging stick.Huddig AB
There is a plug-in charging option for the HUDDIG 1260T which the company says allows the machine to work with unlimited stationary electricity while directly charging the backhoe loader. It can be charged using standard electrical networks which are available on most work sites and quickly recharges the battery to full power within 1 hour. Customers can also choose to do a slower, overnight charge if preferred to reduce possible downtime.
"Our hybrid backhoe loader HUDDIG TIGON will revolutionize the construction industry in several ways. Naturally, through reduced emissions, but also through the new opportunities and areas of use that electric power enables. We will definitely see new ways of working with construction machinery in the future," says Daniel Myrgren, Marketing and Sales Manager, Huddig AB, in the company's press release announcing the availability of the HUDDIG 1260T.
Technology for improved performance
Use of electric motor generators (EMG) enables extra boosts of power as well as recharging of the HUDDIG TIGON's battery during machine operation. According to Huddig, the EMG have a higher level of efficiency than conventional powertrains because they are directly connected to the wheels which reduces efficiency losses.
Use of the EMG enables the machine to provide 30% more power as well as instantaneous power peaks of up to 130% for extra power boosts when needed.
Each wheel on the backhoe loader is powered by a separate EMG capable of adjusting and calibrating the speed of the wheel at 100 times per second. This 100% four-wheel drive design provides improved traction in all ground conditions, including those which may be slippery.
The HUDDIG 1260T is also equipped with a 3D machine control system from Leica Geosystems. Huddig says incorporation of this technology on the backhoe loader will help to increase productivity and precision of the machine for customers.
This machine control system incorporates the digging unit, loader system and swing boom, as well as the function for rotating the digging stick. Doing so ensures all work functions of the backhoe loader are precise to help make operators more productive and comfortable throughout the work day. 
A Leica Geosystems 3D machine control system is integrated into the HUDDIG 1260T to improve operator productivity.Huddig AB
"HUDDIG TIGON is an innovation that starts a new era in the construction industry. As pioneers, Huddig is involved in driving the green transition that the entire industry is now facing. The machine is not just a hybrid but a technical masterpiece. I am incredibly proud of all employees and partners who have made this possible and look forward to continuing the journey," concludes Lars Lindahl, CEO of Huddig AB, in the company's press release.
