This is a significant development for the North American heavy equipment market. Here’s a breakdown of what this arrival means regarding Develon (formerly Doosan) and their new Dash 9 series excavators.
The Rebranding Context
While the headline says “Develon,” many in North America recognize the company as Doosan. In 2021, Doosan Infracore rebranded its construction equipment division to Develon to create a distinct identity separate from the Doosan conglomerate’s other business units (like energy or machine tools). The transition to the Develon name and gray livery has been rolling out globally, with North America being a key final stage.
What are the Dash 9 Series?
The Dash 9 series represents the next generation of excavators from Develon, replacing the previous Dash 7 and Dash 8 models. These machines are designed to meet Tier 4 Final emissions standards while focusing heavily on fuel efficiency, operator comfort, and advanced telematics.
Key models arriving include:
- DX140LC-9Â (14-ton class)
- DX180LC-9Â (18-ton class)
- DX225LC-9Â (22-ton class)
- DX235LCR-9Â (23-ton reduced radius)
- DX300LC-9Â (30-ton class)
- DX350LC-9Â (35-ton class)
- DX420LC-9Â (42-ton class)
Key Features of the Dash 9 Lineup
1. Fuel Efficiency (D-ECOPOWER)
The biggest engineering shift in the Dash 9 series is the adoption of D-ECOPOWER technology. This is Develon’s version of a hydraulic/electric hybrid system.
- Unlike traditional hydraulic systems that use a constant flow of oil regardless of demand, D-ECOPOWER uses a variable-speed electric-driven hydraulic pump.
- Result: Develon claims up to 20% better fuel efficiency compared to previous Dash-8 models, with no loss in digging power or cycle times.
2. New Cab Design
The Dash 9 series features a completely redesigned cab focused on ergonomics and safety:
- 8-inch LCD Touchscreen:Â Replaces the traditional cluster gauge. It serves as the hub for machine monitoring, rear/side cameras, and telematics (Develon Fleet Management).
- Short-throw Levers:Â Pilot controls have been adjusted for reduced operator fatigue.
- Visibility:Â The cab pillars have been slimmed down, and the windows enlarged to improve visibility to the right side and the work site.
3. Telematics & Technology
All Dash 9 models come standard with Develon Fleet Management telematics. This allows fleet owners to monitor idle time, fuel consumption, maintenance schedules, and location remotely. The machines also feature Smart Key systems (similar to modern cars) to prevent theft and unauthorized use.
Impact on the North American Market
The arrival of the Dash 9 series is strategically timed to compete directly with market leaders Caterpillar (Next Gen), Deere (P-Tier), and Komatsu (-11 series).
- Parts Continuity:Â Develon is maintaining a 48-hour parts guarantee for North America, leveraging its distribution network (including dealers like Bobcat and independent Develon dealers) to reassure contractors nervous about the rebranding transition.
- Undercarriage:Â The Dash 9 models continue to feature the robust, industry-standard undercarriage that made the Doosan DX series a favorite in heavy civil and demolition sectors.
Summary
If you are a contractor or fleet owner in North America, the arrival of the Dash 9 means you will start seeing gray and yellow machines (moving away from the orange) on job sites. The primary selling point for these units is the D-ECOPOWER hydraulic system, which offers a tangible reduction in fuel burn—often the highest variable cost in heavy equipment operation.
Would you like to know the specific specifications for a particular model size (e.g., the 22-ton DX225LC-9) or how the Develon warranty compares to competitors like Cat or Deere?
