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Diesel fuel prices are reaching record highs, with prices spiking well above $3 a gallon in some parts of the country. To ensure continued profitability, cost control is as crucial to your customers as it is to you. This includes making sure all of your equipment — including excavators — are operating at peak fuel efficiency.

Fortunately, manufacturers are making this easier via more fuel-efficient designs that deliver higher engine horsepower and improved hydraulic performance.

"Excavator manufacturers are continually trying to improve their machines to reduce operating costs and improve fuel efficiency," says Mark Wall, product marketing manager-excavators, John Deere. A key focus has been getting maximum production out of the machine. "We always try to maximize cubic yards per hour. By moving more dirt per hour or helping to put more pipe in the ground in a day, we are improving the customer's efficiency and lowering his cost of operation."

More power, less fuel

Not all manufacturers' machines are created equal. Certain suppliers are making big breakthroughs in fuel economy faster than others.

Excavator technology is improving on an almost daily basis, says Dave Pooley at Hyundai. "With the introduction of Tier II EPA engine laws several years ago, engine manufacturers had to do some creative fuel design changes," he explains. "The changes included electronic fuel delivery systems, which react much quicker in delivery, and governor control. The overall result is a more fuel-efficient engine that emits less pollution into the environment."