Kobelco and Trimble expand grade control collaboration

Trimble Earthworks’ grade control platform is now available for Kobelco excavators.

Kobelco and Trimble recently announced the two companies will expand collaboration to make the Trimble Earthworks’ 2D guidance and control systems available through select Kobelco dealers in North America.  

While Kobelco has offered a Trimble Readyoption from the factory on multiple machine models since 2017, the expanded collaboration makes it easy for customers to acquire excavators pre-equipped with Trimble Earthworks and receive training, service and support directly from their K Kobelco dealer.

“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.”

The program enables certified Kobelco dealers to offer and install Trimble 2D machine guidance and control systems and offers customers a pathway to all the benefits of grade control technology, including 3D grade control.  

“We are committed to making Trimble technology as easy as possible for all customers to purchase, regardless of equipment type,” said Scott Crozier, Vice President, Civil Construction Field Systems at Trimble. “We expect today’s announcement will make it easier for Kobelco customers to take advantage of seamless integration into the Trimble technology ecosystem.”

To ensure seamless integration and support for customers, Kobelco has established a certification process for dealers. Training includes online courses and in-person sessions covering both sales and technical service. Participating locations are also required to have demo equipment, a spare parts inventory and a dedicated technology champion.

By becoming certified, dealers gain the ability to:

  • Offer pre-configured Trimble Earthworks 2D solutions
  • Deliver faster installation with Kobelco’s factory sensor mounts on select models
  • Support upgrades to Trimble Earthworks 3D grade control through the SITECH distribution channel, when needed

Trimble Earthworks 2D systems are available for a range of Kobelco models with factory sensor mounts that streamline installation.