KOBELCO and Trimble Expand Collaboration with New Grade Control Offering

KOBELCO Construction Machinery U.S.A. and Trimble announced an expanded collaboration that will make the Trimble Earthworks grade control platform available directly through select KOBELCO dealers in North America.

The program, launched as KOBELCO’s certified Trimble Earthworks 2D grade control offering, is now available across the company’s dealer network. The companies said the integration is designed to improve productivity and precision on excavation jobsites.

KOBELCO has offered a Trimble Ready option from the factory on multiple models since 2017. The new collaboration allows customers to acquire excavators pre-equipped with Trimble Earthworks 2D systems, while also receiving training, service and support directly from KOBELCO dealers. Customers can also access upgrades to Trimble Earthworks 3D grade control through the SITECH distribution channel.

“We are committed to providing our customers with the tools they need to succeed on modern jobsites,” said Dan Collins, director of product development & marketing at KOBELCO USA. “This collaboration allows KOBELCO dealers to offer proven technology that enhances productivity, reduces overcut and shortens project timelines.”

Scott Crozier, vice president of civil construction field systems at Trimble, added: “We are committed to making Trimble technology as easy as possible for all customers to purchase, regardless of equipment type. We expect today’s announcement will make it easier for KOBELCO customers to take advantage of seamless integration into the Trimble technology ecosystem.”

To support the rollout, KOBELCO developed a dealer certification process that includes training for sales and service staff, demo equipment, a spare parts inventory and a designated technology champion at each certified location.

The Trimble Earthworks 2D systems are available for a range of KOBELCO excavator models with factory sensor mounts to streamline installation.