Wacker Neuson has launched the DW100e, an articulated dump truck designed specifically for the spatial constraints of underground tunneling and mining. Traditional ADTs require large turning circles or loop tunnels at the dump point to reverse into position. The DW100e solves this with a hydraulically rotating operator's cab. When traveling in reverse or dumping, the cab rotates 180 degrees, allowing the operator to face the rear of the machine as if it were the front.
The machine utilizes a permanent four-wheel-drive system with a central pivot joint for articulation. The dual-view capability is achieved via a rotating console and steering column. When the cab rotates, the steering, accelerator, and brake controls automatically realign to the new orientation. This eliminates the ergonomic strain of constantly looking over one's shoulder or using mirrors in dusty, low-light environments.
Safety is enhanced by the integration of proximity sensors on both ends of the machine. When in "reverse cab" mode, the front radar of the cab (now facing the rear of the machine) automatically becomes the primary collision warning system. The dump body is also designed for low clearance; it has a low-profile design to fit in tunnels with restricted headroom while still maintaining a high-volume capacity due to the rectangular body shape.
