Develon recently added two new machines – the 6-metric-ton DX62R-7 and DX63-7 – to its line of next-generation -7 Series mini excavators for use in the U.S. and Canada. Boasting an updated design and improved performance compared to the previous iterations, the DX62R-7 and DX63-7 offer more standard premium features such as telematics and high-performance heating and air conditioning for operator comfort.

“The new DX62R-7 and DX63-7 mini excavators have been updated inside and out from their predecessors,” said Jacob Sherman, product and dealer marketing manager at Develon, a brand of HD Hyundai Infracore. “They deliver impressive digging, uptime protection and smart technologies operators need to take on the toughest jobsites.”

The DX62R-7 has a reduced tail-swing design; the tail swing extends just a few inches beyond the width of the excavator tracks. The DX63-7 is a conventional tail swing excavator. Both are available in standard or optional long-arm configurations for more reach and dig depth. Applications for these new models include landscaping, construction and underground utilities.

The new -7 Series mini excavators are designed with a width-protected swing frame. Operators can position the machines flush against a structure or wall when offset digging. The excavators’ swing casting and cylinders remain within the track width at full left-swing, according to Develon, helping to protect these components when working in confined spaces. An integrated counterweight improves lifting capacity.

When turning, grading and maneuvering, the DX62R-7 and DX63-7 auto-downshift to avoid bogging down when traveling. As the load decreases, the excavators automatically shift back into high range. A standard auto-idle feature idles the engine automatically when machine functions are not used for a few seconds.

A steel-track undercarriage option is available for demolition work or other applications that could damage the standard rubber tracks. Develon says that the new -7 Series mini excavators offer steel-track and rubber-shoe conversion with minimal modification required.

Design goals: Attachment versatility, operator comfort
The thumb-ready arm, a standard feature on the DX62R-7 and DX63-7, includes durable mounts integrated into the arm, eliminating the need for welding when adding a thumb. The new design features quick-coupler hydraulic piping installed to the end of the arm, reportedly enabling easier attachment changes. Because operators do not need additional accessories to install a compatible quick coupler to the machine, the time it takes to switch attachments is greatly reduced, Develon says.

The excavators offer 1-way/2-way hydraulic flow, which is activated through the joystick rather than the foot pedals. One-way hydraulic flow only requires hydraulic power in one direction, for such attachments as hydraulic breakers and plate compactors. Two-way hydraulic flow is suitable for mini-excavator attachments that need bidirectional flow, such as hydraulic thumbs (clamps), rippers and grapples.

The standard heating and air-conditioning system is fully integrated with multiple vents throughout the cab to improve operator comfort and performance. Ergonomic enhancements include a thumb switch on the right joystick that controls auxiliary hydraulic functions. Boom swing is controlled by a thumb switch on the left joystick. Develon says that this control style enables better metering and improved multifunctioning than with a foot pedal.

A framed, full glass door and an optional rearview camera aid visibility alongside and behind the excavators. High-illumination LED lamps light the work area and an optional rotating beacon is available for work in high-traffic areas or low-light situations. Standard Bluetooth audio allows operators to communicate without removing their hands from the joystick controls. A selectable control pattern is standard, allowing operators to choose between ISO or BHL.

Develon’s Fleet Management telematics system is a standard feature on the DX62R-7 and DX63-7, allowing customers to remotely monitor the health, location and productivity of their machine from a mobile app and website. The customer’s dealer can see the equipment status and notify them when it’s time for service.

Develon also offers Smart X-Care service. A team of equipment specialists can actively track machine telematics from a secure machine-monitoring center and interpret the data in real time to provide recommendations and deliver reports.

DTL35 compact track loader
Develon revealed its DTL35 compact track loader in prototype form at the 2023 CONEXPO Show in Las Vegas and will preview it again at the ARA Show in February and at World of Asphalt 2024 in March. Available later in 2024, the DTL35 marks the company’s first entry in this product category for the North American construction market.

“This means a lot to us because it’s a statement that we take this [market] very seriously,” said Thomas Lee, product management director at Develon. “It’s also offering a new solution for the customers.”

The company claims that the machine’s large frame size and best-in-class 116-hp (86.5-kW) Develon engine position the DTL35 among the segment leaders in performance. “One hundred sixteen horsepower for this size class, I’ve got to be honest, that’s a lot,” Lee said. “We have a high-flow option that can match with the engine power. We can give out 40 gallons per minute of hydraulic flow to the attachments.”

The compact track loader features a standard torsion suspension system for a smooth ride and stable operation when lifting and carrying loads. “It eliminates any kind of vibration that comes from the terrain so that the operator can work in the cabin all day long,” Lee said. “It also can give the operator better performance when grading.”

The cab features an “unbreakable” polycarbonate door. Inside is a full-color 8-inch (203-mm) Develon Smart Touch display. A standard rearview camera gives operators better visibility to the attachment and surroundings. An optional around view monitor (AVM) camera system can provide 360-degree monitoring from the cab.