New Zealand’s construction industry is undergoing a major shift. With stricter environmental regulations, increasing demand for sustainable practices, and the drive for greater efficiency, electric heavy machinery is no longer just a novelty—it’s the future.
From mini excavators to large port equipment, electric machines are transforming worksites across the country. In this article, we’ll explore the rise of electric machinery, what it means for NZ construction, and how SANY’s electric range—available through Vertu Equipment—is leading the change.
Explore our full range of SANY Electric Machinery here.
Global & Local Market Trends
Global growth: The electric construction equipment market is projected to grow by more than 20% annually through 2029.
NZ outlook: Reports highlight that electric and automated machinery are becoming central to NZ’s construction equipment forecasts, with excavators remaining the most in-demand machines.
Key drivers: Emission targets, noise reduction, operational savings, and improved site health and safety are fuelling adoption.
Why Electric Machinery Matters in NZ
- Reduced Emissions – Lower carbon output helps contractors meet New Zealand’s climate goals and community expectations.
- Lower Running Costs – Electricity is cheaper than diesel, and with fewer moving parts, electric machines require less maintenance.
- Noise Reduction – A quieter machine improves safety and community relations, particularly in residential and urban projects.
- Competitive Advantage – Contractors adopting zero-emission machinery can differentiate themselves when tendering for projects.
The Challenges Ahead
While the benefits are clear, NZ contractors must also consider:
Higher upfront purchase costs
Charging infrastructure requirements
Battery range and performance in rugged environments
Access to trained technicians and spare parts
This is where strong supplier partnerships, like those with Vertu Equipment, become critical.
SANY’s Electric Machinery Range
Vertu Equipment supplies a growing range of SANY electric heavy machinery designed for the realities of New Zealand construction and mining.
SANY SY19E Electric Mini Excavator
1.9 tonne compact machine
Lithium iron phosphate battery with fast charging (~1.5 hrs)
Zero emissions, low noise, and ideal for tight urban worksites
Perfect for residential projects, landscaping, and inner-city civil work where emissions and noise restrictions apply.
SANY SY35E Electric Excavator
4.5-tonne class, compact and versatile
Lithium battery with fast charging
Designed for medium-scale civil works, small to medium earthmoving, and utility projects
Ideal for contractors needing a slightly larger excavator than the SY19E while maintaining low emissions and noise levels.
SANY SY215E Electric Excavator
23-tonne class, powered by a 150 kW motor
Comparable performance to diesel models
Fast charging available with CCS2 DC (≈1.5 hrs)
A robust choice for larger civil, infrastructure, and earthmoving projects—delivering serious power with zero on-site emissions.
See more here
SANY SY870E Electric Mining Excavator
80-tonne+ machine with ~370 kW motor
Designed for mining, quarrying, and large-scale heavy industries
Proves that even the largest earthmoving tasks can be electrified
SANY SW956E Electric Wheel Loader
5.5-tonne rated load capacity
Advanced lithium battery system with fast charging options
Powerful, efficient, and ideal for quarrying, materials handling, and construction sites
An excellent choice for contractors needing high productivity while cutting emissions and fuel costs.
SANY STH625E Electric Telehandler
6.2-metre lift height, 2.5-tonne lift capacity
Lithium battery pack with fast charging
Compact, versatile, and perfect for material handling in construction, warehousing, and logistics
This telehandler delivers efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability in one powerful package.
See more here
What This Means for NZ Construction Companies
Adopting SANY electric machinery offers NZ businesses:
Sustainability Leadership – Position your company as an environmental frontrunner.
Operational Savings – Lower fuel and maintenance costs improve profitability over the machine’s lifetime.
Future-Proofing – Be prepared for tightening regulations and tender requirements.
Local Support – Vertu Equipment provides after-sales service, training, and parts to keep your electric fleet running.
Transition Path for Contractors
- Fleet Assessment – Identify which machines are due for replacement and suitable for electrification.
- Pilot Projects – Start with compact machines like the SY19E or SY35E to test workflows.
- Infrastructure Planning – Install charging systems and assess site power needs.
- Upskill Teams – Train operators and technicians for electric machinery handling.
- Leverage Incentives – Explore government or council support for low-emission equipment.
The rise of electric heavy machinery is reshaping the New Zealand construction industry. Contractors who move early will not only reduce emissions and save costs but also stand out in a competitive market.
With proven models like the SANY SY19E, SY35E, SY215E, SW956E Wheel Loader, STH625E Telehandler, and the SY870E mining excavator, the technology is here, and the future is electric.
Vertu Equipment is ready to help NZ businesses make the transition—backed by reliable service, training, and the industry’s most advanced electric heavy machinery.
