At ConExpo earlier this year, a pre-production version of the R210LC-9 was debuted. On Dec. 11 and 12 the R210LC-9 and R290LC-9 models were unveiled to Hyundai dealer principals in Orlando, Fla. The R210LC-9 and R290LC-9 will be available to the market in the first quarter of 2009. Also at the launch meeting, Hyundai previewed two additional 9 series models, the R140LC-9 and the R250LC-9 that will become available later this year.
The recurring theme during this 9 series launch was to Think Again! Hyundai encouraged customers who are thinking of investing in an excavator to “Think Comfort,” “Think Efficiency,” “Think Performance,” “Think Again and ultimately Think Hyundai.”
The two models formally introduced, the R210LC-9 and R290LC-9, feature new hydraulic technologies and a multitude of standard features, according to the manufacturer.
The R210LC-9 is standard equipped with an operating weight of 42,280 lbs. (19,178 kg), a 9 ft. 7 in. (2.9 m) arm and a 1.2 cu. yd. (.9 cu m) bucket. On a larger scale, the R290LC-9 has an operating weight of 67,150 lbs. (30, 459 kg) and comes equipped with a 10 ft. (3m) arm and a 1.66 cu. yd. (1.3 cu m) bucket.
All 9 series excavators include the following as standard: Heated air-ride suspension seat, transparent skylight, CD player — radio with mp3 input and remote mounted controls, adjustable sunshades, cup holders, ultra bright 7 in. color cluster display, control pattern selector valve, battery cut-off switch, lockable fuel cap, right and left side boom flood lights and HI-MATE (remote management system).
The color cluster controls all systems as well as provides systems information. It has quick reference buttons, maintenance information, error codes and the availability to show the views from the three cameras. There are three operator modes set from here: Power, Standard and Economy. In the Economy mode the machines can operate up to three days. The system includes an anti-theft system with password control.
The HI-MATE Remote Management System equipment includes a 2-year monitoring program, which provides the owner real time information on problems. Full daily operation information is available the next day.
Another standard feature, Hyundai’s Total Coverage Warranty, includes a 2 year, 2,000 hour bumper to bumper warranty and a 5 year, 10,000 hour structural warranty. The first preventative maintenance service call also is included in the price.
Think Comfort
All 9 Series models feature a new larger, operator’s cab with additional sound proofing insulation and a reinforced structure for a quieter and safer operating experience. The heated seat and control consoles are fully adjustable with infinite custom configurations for the most ergonomic operator preference. Operators can adjust the height of each control console individually for optimum access to the joysticks.
A redesigned air conditioning and heating system, with side-by-side placement, provides enhanced climate control with 20 percent more output, improved defrosting and better air circulation. A new, improved air condition condenser system also provides more cooling power, according to the manufacturer, and more insulation makes the machine quieter.
The fan now has a variable bi-metal clutch that is infinitely variable, reducing fuel consumption. There also is a control pattern change valve standard so the operator can use either ISO or SAE controls.
Visibility also is enhanced now with a larger one-piece right side window, larger rear window, smaller front window seam and upper transparent skylight. The front window also is easier to open with a redesigned system.
Storage compartments and cup holders are placed in convenient locations for optimal access.
Think Efficiency
In a recent comparative test, Hyundai’s R210LC-9 was able to operate for 3 entire days on a single tank of fuel while operating in the new economy mode. New engine efficiencies, improved electronic control, and new hydraulic technologies are incorporated in the 9 series for increased efficiency, according to the manufacturer.
Think Performance
New Tier III Cummins engine technology in the R210LC-9 and R290LC-9 provide electronic control with maximum horsepower and optimal torque. The 140 will have a Mitsubishi engine while the others will use the Cummins QSB6.7 series engines.
Kawasaki designed pump technology along with Hyundai’s new Posi-Nega hydraulic control system place hydraulic power and improved fine control capabilities in the hand of the operator.
The Posi-Nega Hydraulic Control allows simplicity of the system and good controllability, allowing better multi function control of attachments and better fine control at low RPM. There also will be more information provided to the operator, according to the manufacturer. The Posi-Nega system is only available on R210LC-9 and R250LC-9 models.
The system also has added “Auto Power Boost” where a sensor automatically turns on the power boost.
Harnessing the newly improved engine and hydraulic technologies, the new Computer Aided Power Optimization (CAPO) system offers a user-friendly interface and customizable machine operation through power mode, work mode and user mode selection. Ensuring machine performance and reduced maintenance issues, all Hyundai’s include the HI-MATE remote management system which uses GPS — Satellite technology and a user friendly, internet-based Hyundai user interface to access critical machine information from anywhere in the world. All GPS equipment and service is provided free of charge for the first two years of ownership.
This story also appears on Truck and Trailer Guide.
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