The previous Robex R55-3 has been one of Hyundai’s bestselling excavator models, giving it a leading position in the mini-excavator market in many European countries. Now the company has invested some 170 million Euro in the development of the new replacement model, and has upgraded the specification with important improvements, particularly in the engine management system, operator environment and all-round performance, as well as in the distinctive new rounded lines. The new Robex R55-7 has already earned special recognition in Korea, with an award from the Korean Institute of Design, GD Quality Mark from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy. Improvements in fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions have been achieved with the latest 53 hp (40 kW) Yanmar 4-cylinder diesel engine and its management system, which includes a convenient new (patented) foot-operated speed control.

The whole operator environment has been given special attention, with refinements such as a top-quality seat, pilot-operated joystick controls, air-conditioning and radio/cassette – all included in the standard specification. The extra-wide cab is fully ROPS/FOPS approved, and as well as the expansive glass areas for clear, unobstructed visibility, it also includes a convenient sliding side-window (to permit external communication without having to continually open the door). The intention has been to create a working environment appropriate for a businesslike, high-production machine. In terms of performance, the new Robex R55-7 provides a more powerful hydraulic system with higher torque slewing and braking for faster digging cycles, and a boom and stick arrangement which gives 3,82 m digging depth, with full 130 degree boom off-set ability. Standard digging buckets range from .07 to .18 cu.m capacity (315 to 770 mm wide).

Width over the tracks is 1.92 m, and although it does not qualify as a „zero tail-swing“ machine, it does have a rounded, short-radius tail for working safely in confined spaces. The full-width hinged rear canopy opens to give clear access to the engine and hydraulics for serving. It is in the general attention to small details of design where the pedigree of the R55-7 reveals itself. The up-and-over-front screen incorporates a sun-visor and a fold-flat wiper-blade, and the cab has a flat floor with raised foot rests. Externally, it has a tapered-top undercarriage frame to prevent build-up of debris in the tracks, centralised greasing, a durable stainless steel exhaust pipe, and a large-capacity, eye-level mounted pre-cleaner on the air intake. „We believe, that following on the outstanding success of the previous R55-3 model, we will now establish a new, even higher bench-mark in this important sector,“ says European marketing manager Michel de Weert.

„Customers now expect the same levels of comfort and performance as they are used to in larger machines, and these 5t-class machines are regarded as serious, compact production tools in the construction, house building and in utilities sectors. With this machine we shall be offering not only full-equipped, class-leading specification, but also the R55’s acknowledged reputation for hard work and reliability, all with Hyundai’s legendary value for money.“ The new Robex R55-7 is now available from Hyundai European dealers, and will be making its debut public appearance at shows across Europe during 2005, including Samoter in Verona, Italy, SED in the UK and CEMAT in Germany.