Develon unveils -9 Series heavy excavators

During CONEXPO-CON/AGG, Develon unveiled the -9 Series heavy excavators.

The reveal, followed by a press conference in the afternoon, marks the North American debut of its excavator platform built on fully electronic hydraulic technology and integrated artificial intelligence.

By moving from pilot-operated controls to an electronic hydraulic system, Develon has unlocked a suite of smart features designed to increase job site safety and precision while lowering the barrier of entry for newer operators.

“Today isn’t just about a new model year; it’s about a new standard for the industry,” says Brian Kim, heavy excavator product manager at Develon. “With our new -9 Series, the machine is no longer just a tool — it’s an intelligent partner. By combining EH controls with AI-powered safety and a tablet-style interface, we are giving our customers a level of control and site awareness that was previously impossible.”

The Develon -9 Series excavators feature several innovations, like an AI-powered safety and intelligent E-Stop. The new smart around view monitor camera system uses artificial intelligence to identify humans in the work zone. With the addition of a new radar system that detects objects up to six meters away, the machine can automatically trigger an intelligent E-Stop to halt the excavator’s swing or travel if a person is detected in the danger zone.

Additionally, the shift to EH allows for stick steer travel via joystick thumbwheels. EH controls allow for greater customization, including joystick sensitivity, response time and joystick button layout, for operators to maximize precision. Every -9 Series excavator is factory-equipped for 2D and ready for 3D systems, featuring built-in IMU sensors for “plug and play” compatibility with providers like Trimble and Leica. And a 12-inch, vertical tablet-style touch screen replaces the traditional monitor. It offers a customizable, split-screen interface where operators can monitor 2D/3D grade systems, AI camera feeds and machine vitals simultaneously.

On display at the show were the following new Develon -9 Series excavators: DX230LC-9, DX260LC-9, DX360LC-9 and DX400LC-9.