Swedish manufacturer Huddig has recently introduced two new backhoes, including its first hybrid model designed for the US market. In 2021, the company had already made headlines by claiming to have developed the world's first commercial hybrid diesel-electric backhoe.The new model, called the 1370T, is equipped with a hybrid engine system that enables it to run solely on electricity for up to two hours while maintaining the same performance as when running on diesel alone. Huddig explains that the diesel engine automatically takes over when the battery needs recharging, which can be done in just 40 minutes during operation or through a power outlet.Operating the backhoe in electric (EV) mode provides a quieter operation and reduces fuel costs. Moreover, the hybrid technology incorporated in the machine offers an instant 30% power boost when necessary. It offers two modes of operation: Power (PWR) mode and ECO mode, which allow for a combination of diesel and electric power usage.The hybrid system employed in the backhoe showcases Huddig's Tigon Technology. It utilizes a 44 kWh 90-volt battery with a power output of 81 kilowatts, equivalent to 108 horsepower. The diesel engine, on the other hand, is a 4.5-liter Cummins engine with 154 horsepower.In addition to the hybrid model, Huddig has also introduced its 1370 diesel backhoe in the U.S. market. This version runs on a 157-horsepower 6.7-liter Cummins engine and has the capability to operate on HVO biodiesel, reducing carbon emissions.Both the hybrid and diesel models, unveiled at ConExpo 2023, follow the success of the company's previous backhoes, the 1260E diesel backhoe and the 1260T hybrid backhoe, which was the world's first hybrid backhoe when it was introduced in 2021. The new 1370 models offer improvements such as a 10% greater reach of 23.6 feet and an 18% increase in lift height to 14 feet. They also feature an enhanced HVAC system, a new 10-inch LCD display, and a new coupler for attachments.Huddig offers the 1370 backhoes in three configurations: City for use in confined urban areas, Cable designed for power line installations and cable laying, and Rail tailored for railroad work. These configurations come with specialised options to meet the specific requirements of each segment.For those interested in increased hydraulic functionality, Huddig provides an optional FlexLever, which allows for operating three hydraulic functions simultaneously using joystick buttons.The 1370T weighs 32,231 pounds, while the diesel 1370 weighs 29,101 pounds.Huddig's U.S. dealers include Supertrak Inc. in Punta Gorda, Florida, and Vancer Railway Group in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Galesburg, Illinois.