1985 - 1995: Unearthing success with world’s top-selling compact excavator

While the Kubota name is now synonymous with construction and roadwork projects across the country, the company was only known for agricultural equipment throughout its first decade in Canada.

That all changed in 1984 with the introduction of the KH series – the first mini excavators from Kubota Canada. Compact, powerful and easy to operate, the KH10 and KH18 proved to be a game-changing solution.

Prior to their arrival, Canadian contractors were forced to do a lot of work manually or with oversized equipment ill-suited for small-scale jobs. However, with these smaller, more maneuverable machines, they could now work efficiently in tight urban spaces where full-sized construction equipment was simply too large.

Reducing labour demands, increasing efficiency, and making excavation accessible to smaller contractors and municipalities, the KH10 and KH18 were quickly on their way to becoming the best-selling compact excavators in the world.

Since launching the KH series in Canada over four decades ago, Kubota has continuously expanded its construction equipment offerings with a heavy-duty line of loaders, utility vehicles and attachments. 

Five generations of excavators have since been introduced, each featuring enhanced technology and delivering outstanding engine and hydraulic performance. Today, the -5 series excavators offer a deluxe, spacious cab, exceptional power and performance, an intuitive digital panel, and simplified maintenance. 

Through listening to the needs of its customers for 50 years and counting, Kubota continues to evolve its machinery for the construction industry, improving upon operator expectations with special attention to power, reliability and comfort.

What piece of construction equipment or feature is your favourite?