To support growing demand, Komatsu has begun producing the company’s HM400-5 articulated haul trucks at its factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee. While the trucks were produced in Chattanooga in the mid-2000s, in 2009 production shifted to the company’s plant in Ibaraki, Japan, where it has remained until now.
Used primarily in construction, quarry and mining applications, the 473-HP HM400-5 is designed to move material across challenging terrain while delivering productive, consistent performance for operators of all experience levels. To celebrate the new production line, today Komatsu and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) hosted U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann along with other local and state officials for a launch event at the company’s Chattanooga plant.
Production of the truck has already driven an increase in Komatsu’s spend with local and regional suppliers. Additionally, the new line will offer more opportunities for area students to gain experience in manufacturing. Komatsu’s Chattanooga plant currently has a pre-apprenticeship program that employs high school seniors part-time, allowing them to earn credits toward a full apprenticeship certification through Chattanooga State Community College.
In addition to the HM400-5 trucks, the plant produces midsize hydraulic excavators and intelligent excavators, as well as some machines for the forestry market.