Develon welcomed close to 900 customers, dealers, and industry media to its Demo Days event, held from 13–16 April at the Háje quarry near Prague in the Czech Republic.
The four-day event provided attendees with a hands-on opportunity to experience Develon’s latest quarrying and construction equipment in a real working environment, including its newest autonomous and electric excavators.
Autonomous innovation takes the spotlight
A major highlight was the live demonstration of the Real-X system, developed in collaboration with Gravis Robotics. Combining expertise in AI-driven excavation and advanced machinery, the system represents a significant advancement in autonomous excavation technology.
The Real-X trenching demonstration showcased smooth, precise operation, underlining how automation can improve consistency, safety, and productivity on-site. The partnership has already delivered its first system to a European customer, marking a key milestone in bringing autonomous excavators into real-world use.
Several key partners – including Leica Geosystems, Engcon, Trimble, Steelwrist, and Strickland MFG – also participated, showcasing their collaborative technologies with Develon.
Expanding electric excavator portfolio
In response to growing demand for sustainable solutions, Develon continues to expand its range of electric-powered excavators, supporting the industry’s transition toward zero-emission equipment.
Built on the company’s “-7 Series” platform, the electric machines on display covered both compact and mid-size segments, delivering the performance and reliability expected by customers while reducing environmental impact.
Highlighted models included the DX20ZE-7 and DX23E-7 mini excavators, the DX230LCE-7 crawler excavator, and the DX160WE-7K wheeled excavator.
Launch of next-generation Series 9 machines
Demo Days 2026 also marked the launch of Develon’s new DX360LC-9 (37-tonne) and DX400HD-9 (42-tonne) Series 9 crawler excavators. Built on a next-generation platform, these machines feature full electro-hydraulic (FEH) systems and integrated artificial intelligence, enhancing precision, control, and efficiency.
They were showcased alongside the previously introduced DX230LC-9 and DX260LC-9 models, with all four machines available for live operation – allowing customers to experience their capabilities under real working conditions.
Focus on safety and smart technologies
Live demonstrations highlighted several advanced safety and productivity innovations, including the new E-Stop system – the first technology of its kind designed specifically for excavators. The system is aimed at significantly reducing job-site accidents and improving worker safety in high-risk environments.
According to Stephane Dieu, Product Manager for Develon excavators in Europe, the E-Stop system is comparable to emergency braking technologies used in the automotive sector and is already attracting strong interest from operators seeking practical safety solutions.
Also featured was Transparent Bucket 2.0 (TB2.0), an advanced visibility system for wheel loaders that eliminates front blind spots, enabling safer and more efficient operation.
Specialised machines for demanding applications
Special application equipment formed another key part of the showcase, including the new DX140RDM-7 compact demolition excavator, alongside the DX160WMH-7 and DX350WMH-7 material handlers.
Weighing 14 tonnes, the DX140RDM-7 combines power with high manoeuvrability, making it ideal for confined spaces. Its versatile design supports not only demolition but also a range of multi-purpose applications, offering increased flexibility across job sites.
The model is part of Develon’s broader demolition range, which also includes the DX245DM-7, DX380DM-7, and DX530DM-7, covering a wide spectrum of project needs.
Meanwhile, the DX160WMH-7 and DX350WMH-7 material handlers are engineered for intensive applications such as recycling, waste management, and industrial operations, delivering the durability and performance required in demanding environments.
