Advanced excavator technology cuts operational costs
As construction and mining sectors in Southern Africa continue to operate under pressure from rising input costs and increasingly strict environmental regulations, fuel consumption has emerged as a critical determinant of project viability.
Recognising this, Develon has developed an integrated suite of intelligent technologies across its excavator range – including auto-idle functionality, adaptive power modes and intelligent hydraulic controls – designed to reduce fuel consumption, whilst maintaining operational performance.
“Our approach focuses on delivering the power our customers need, whilst eliminating unnecessary fuel consumption,” Johann Viljoen – National Sales Manager, Disa Equipment – distributors of Develon earthmoving equipment in Southern Africa. “Advanced technologies work intelligently to optimise efficiency without requiring changes to established operating procedures.
“The technology implementations are available across Develon’s excavator range, with particular emphasis on machines designed for demanding applications, where fuel savings can generate substantial cost reductions over operational lifecycles.
“Develon’s DX800 excavator incorporates these technologies, within a design engineered for challenging operating conditions in Africa. The machine’s smart hydraulic systems and optimised engine management enable high productivity levels, whilst maintaining controlled fuel consumption rates. Integration of multiple efficiency technologies contributes to reduced total cost of ownership for operators handling substantial excavation projects.
“South Africa’s construction industry is expected to record average annual growth of 2.9% from 2025 to 2028, with similar expansion trends across the broader Southern African region, creating increased demand for efficient machinery operation.
“Recent fuel price adjustments have seen diesel prices decrease by 36.9 cents per litre in June 2025, yet volatile pricing continues to impact project profitability across South Africa and neighbouring Southern African markets.
“Construction material price indices rose by 1.8% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, emphasising the importance of operational cost management. The fuel efficiency technologies address this challenge by reducing one of the most significant variable costs in machinery operation.”
Develon’s advanced technology focuses on Electronic Power Optimisation systems that monitor engine load continuously and adjust fuel injection parameters accordingly. This approach ensures engines operate at optimal efficiency points, whilst delivering required power output. The auto-idle system reduces engine speed automatically during inactive periods, eliminating fuel waste during brief operational pauses common in excavation work.
Develon’s adaptive power modes allow operators to match machine performance to specific task requirements. The Eco mode adjusts engine speed and hydraulic flow rates for lighter operations such as grading and loading activities, reducing fuel consumption without compromising productivity. Operators can switch between power settings as operational demands change throughout working cycles.
The hydraulic system incorporates load-sensing technology that adjusts power output based on resistance encountered during operation. This prevents engines from operating at unnecessarily high levels when reduced force is sufficient, contributing to overall fuel efficiency whilst reducing component wear. The system optimises hydraulic fluid flow to deliver power precisely where required, minimising energy losses.
Advanced operator interfaces provide real-time fuel consumption data and performance metrics, enabling informed decisions about operating techniques and power mode selection. Some systems include historical analysis capabilities, allowing fleet managers to identify consumption patterns and implement efficiency strategies across multiple machines.
Environmental compliance considerations are also increasingly relevant to equipment owners, with reduced fuel consumption contributing to lower emission levels. This supports environmental regulatory compliance, whilst addressing sustainability requirements becoming standard in the construction sector.
Develon’s implementation of advanced excavator technologies generate significant cost savings through reduced fuel consumption, particularly for operations involving multiple machines, working extended hours. The combination of automated systems and operator guidance tools, provides comprehensive efficiency management, without requiring extensive training or operational changes.
Disa Equipment specialists recommend regular servicing of machines – including timely oil changes, air filter replacements and tyre pressure checks – to ensure that equipment operates at peak efficiency, delivering optimal fuel efficiency and reduced costs.
