The new ‘sloping bonnet’ Komatsu bulldozer has scooped an award for original design.
The first gong was a silver medal presented at the International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) ‘08, said to be the most prestigious award of its kind in the United States.
A statement from Komatsu said “This is the first time for our construction equipment has been chosen to receive an internationally reputed design award.”
The D51 bulldozer was praised for it’s all-round visibility and striking appearance. The design represents the first joint development by the firm’s in-house design group, the Product Planning Department of Komatsu Ltd. and the North American R&D Division of Komatsu America Corp.
A spokesman said “This bulldozer features our original ‘super-slant nose’ engine hood design which became possible with our successful allocation of its radiator in the rear of the machine. Also, with its innovative structure and style, the D51 defies the stereotypes of bulldozers and achieves unrivaled front visibility. With the blade visible from the cabin, the operator can use all its fundamental dozer work parameters with ease. As a result, the D51 offers an important improvement in work efficiency and productivity in addition to operability. We won the IDEA award for effective utilization of this ‘super-slant nose’ design.”
While the model hasn’t been officially launched in the GCC yet, potential customers are invited to make enquiries at the UAE representative, Galadari Brothers.