Equipment Notebook: Graders, Track Loaders and Batteries Expand Jobsite Options
As demand grows for smarter, cleaner and more versatile jobsite solutions, manufacturers are responding with new equipment tailored to meet the needs of contractors, municipalities and infrastructure agencies.
From compact machines expanding fleet flexibility to certified energy storage systems improving compliance in regulatory environments, this installment of Equipment Notebook highlights how innovation and adaptation are helping shape the equipment market across North America.
LiuGong’s First North American Motor Grader
LiuGong’s entry into the North American motor grader market marked a milestone with the debut of its 4215D model.
The 4215D is powered by a Tier 5 Cummins engine and a ZF powershift transmission featuring six forward and three reverse gears. A limited-slip differential aids traction, while the operator station is equipped with air conditioning and available ROPS/FOPS protection.
Built for durability and cost efficiency, the 4215D is designed to appeal to agencies and contractors seeking alternatives to traditional OEM offerings, according to the company.
At a recent event debuting the machine, company representatives highlighted growing demand for LiuGong machinery, citing price point, support and ease of use. The company also used the event to showcase LiuGong’s broader lineup of construction equipment.
LiuGong’s presence in the U.S. is expanding, backed by a dealer network aimed at public works buyers focused on long-term value. As competition in the heavy equipment sector intensifies, LiuGong is positioning the 4215D as a practical solution for municipalities balancing performance needs and budget limitations.
Yanmar Compact Track Loaders
Yanmar Compact Equipment has completed its North American product portfolio with the launch of its compact track loaders. The addition finalizes a lineup that includes mini excavators, compact wheel loaders and tracked carriers, expanding Yanmar’s footprint in the compact construction equipment sector.
The new track loaders were developed to serve professionals across construction, rental, utilities and landscaping industries, according to the company. The machines are part of a broader push by Yanmar to position itself as a full-line compact equipment provider in North America.
The company has made significant investment to support this rollout, including a 32,000-square-foot expansion of its Grand Rapids facility and a 50% increase in production capacity. The upgraded site now features robotic welding, a new powder-coating paint system and precision tools to enhance product quality and output.
Leadership at Yanmar CE says the move reflects the company’s long-term commitment to growth in the U.S. and Canada. The expansion also leverages global engineering expertise from the company’s production bases in Japan, France and Germany.
With more models now available and a sharpened focus on regional production, Yanmar said it aims to meet rising demand for versatile, reliable compact equipment that meets jobsite needs across industries.
POWR2 Mobile Battery Systems
POWR2 has become the first manufacturer in its size category to receive UL and CSA certification for a mobile battery energy storage system (BESS), clearing the way for expanded use in North American cities, airports, hospitals and other high-regulation zones.
The certification applies to the POWRBANK XPRO Plus 60Hz, a 100 kVA mobile BESS with 108 kWh of energy storage. The system now meets key safety and performance standards, including UL 9540, UL 1741 and NFPA 855, making it eligible for deployment in sensitive infrastructure environments.
The approval is expected to increase adoption of mobile BESS units in urban construction, disaster response, entertainment events and utility operations. With temporary power needs on the rise, the ability to deploy fully certified, non-emitting systems could help reduce reliance on diesel generators, especially in areas with strict air quality or noise regulations.
POWR2 says the certification process ensures its equipment can support projects where compliance is paramount. The company also plans to expand certification across more models in its lineup.
As mobile energy demands grow, certified BESS units offer contractors and agencies a scalable, lower-emissions alternative for power generation. POWR2’s UL-certified entry opens the door to broader industry adoption of clean, mobile energy in high-stakes applications.
