Flannery deploys first Cat® 320 Electric Medium Excavator in the UK to accelerate real world jobsite electrification

Flannery Plant Hire has deployed the first Cat® 320 electric medium excavator in the UK, marking a significant step not only in equipment adoption but in understanding how electric machinery performs within the complex conditions of live construction environments.

Reflecting its commitment to supporting customers in adopting more sustainable practices, Finning UK & Ireland delivered the Cat 320 to Flannery to support the national plant hire company in delivering sustainable operations across large infrastructure projects. 

To aid operators in the transition to electric equipment, the Cat 320 is designed to deliver equivalent power and performance of its diesel counterpart, whilst reducing noise and vibration.

During the handover Finning and Caterpillar delivered practical training, covering key aspects of the machine, which included a full overview of electric machinery, safety protocols, and guidance on user interface.

Finning also performed a walkaround inspection to help operators familiarise themselves with the machine, highlighting daily maintenance checkpoints to reinforce best practice.

Operators were given the opportunity to learn machine interface functions, controls, and onboard technologies including VisionLink™ telematics.

The handover and support from Finning were designed to empower operators to embrace electric machinery. 

Beyond machine delivery, Finning worked closely with Flannery to understand charging requirements and capture operator feedback.

The project also highlighted the importance of charging infrastructure and site integration, with on-site testing of charging units and connection procedures forming a critical part of the deployment.

Operators were supported not only through training, but also through structured feedback mechanisms to capture real-world insights on machine performance, usability, and site integration.

Once on-site, Finning encouraged the operators to evaluate the excavator by supporting users with an operator logbook and a feedback booklet to record practical insights.

“The initial operator feedback has been positive, confirming comparable performance to diesel machines, while also providing valuable insights into how electric equipment integrates into real jobsite conditions” Explained Rory Gregory, Key Account Manager, Finning UK & Ireland.

“Operators from Flannery have reported that the Cat 320 delivers like-for-like machine operation and hydraulic performance when compared to diesel machines.

“As the sector continues to decarbonise, projects like this demonstrate that achieving low-emission job sites requires not only advanced machines, but also a deep understanding of how those machines operate within real-world site constraints.”

The deployment represents an important step in moving from individual machine adoption to full jobsite electrification, highlighting the need for integrated approaches combining equipment, energy, and operational planning.

Flannery continues to invest in the latest technology from Finning to support its’ ambitious sustainability targets. “Reducing our environmental impact is a fundamental part of our business” said Patrick Flannery, Chief Executive Officer at Flannery Plant Hire.