Launching the backhoe loaders

Having recently launched the YTO range of agricultural tractors, Super Group Equipment (SGE), part of the JSE-listed Super Group, has now put its considerable marketing power behind equipment used in both agriculture and construction: Hidromek Backhoe Loader Tractors. A ccording to Eric Lerche, SGE’s chief executive for construction equipment, SGE has signed an agreement for sole distribution rights with Hidromek’s Turkish manufacturers. “We’re currently the official Hidromek agent in South Africa and are negotiating for similar rights for the rest of Africa,” he explains. Hidromek currently exports its products to more than 40 countries in Europe, Asia, Australasia and Africa. SGE is confident there’s a market for this type of unit in the agricultural field, particularly in the sugarcane sector, where backhoes are used for ditching and draining and loaders are used for the bulk handling of materials such as fertiliser. unit was on display at the recent Absa Eston Show in KwaZulu-Natal. Hidromek’s HMK 102B is a four-wheel-drive unit, powered by a Perkins 1104C-44T turbocharged engine rated at 74,5kW. It has a torque converter and full powershift transmission, with four forward and four reverse gears. Road speed is 40km/h. Digging depth with the side-shift backhoe is 4,45m, or 5,71m with the optional telescopic arm. The loader is fitted with a four-in-one bucket and can lift 2 935kg to the maximum height of 3,22m. Supply and support T he machines combine high performance with excellent fuel efficiency. They’re supported by a countrywide network of technicians, who SGE says have undergone extensive training to provide comprehensive service. “The HMK 102B has been well received in South says Lerche. “We’ll keep sufficient stock to ensure short lead times and swift delivery.” he Hidromek manufacturing plant in Turkey has raised its production of backhoe/loaders to 5 000 units a year and there are currently about 48 000 units operating worldwide. The market for this type of machine in South Africa is currently very buoyant, with sales of up to 2 300 units a year. Hidromek, with its competitive pricing, is set to capture a significant share. – Joe Spencer Contact Eric Lerche on 082 651 0704 or e-mail [email protected]. |fw