Komatsu's development history can be described as a magnificent legend. Since its establishment in 1921, it has started its exploration by imitating Caterpillar. After trade liberalization in 1960, facing the strong attack of Caterpillar, Komatsu actively launched "Plan A" and focused on improving product quality. This move enabled its domestic market share to jump to 65% from 1965 to 1970. In the overseas expansion stage (1970-1985), Komatsu set its sights on the European and American markets and implemented "Plan B", focusing on large-tonnage products and surpassing its competitors. In 1984, its market share in the United States reached 19%. In the global layout stage (1985-2002), Komatsu took advantage of the appreciation of the yen to build factories in developing countries and mergers and acquisitions in developed regions. Since the full harvest period since 2002, the growth in demand in developing countries represented by China has brought Komatsu both revenue and profit.
In terms of technological innovation, Komatsu has always been at the forefront. It continues to launch groundbreaking products, such as intelligent construction solutions, which use drones to conduct terrain surveys and data analysis to ensure the precise construction of excavators. At the same time, its environmentally friendly products such as hybrid and electric excavators have complied with the market's strong demand for environmentally friendly equipment. After-sales service is also a trump card for Komatsu. Komatsu has built a complete after-sales service network, and the after-sales service team can quickly respond to customer needs and provide efficient repair and maintenance services. In addition, Komatsu also provides customers with training and technical support so that customers can use and maintain equipment with ease. In terms of marketing, Komatsu has made every effort to build brand awareness through various means such as actively participating in international construction machinery exhibitions and holding product promotion activities. It maintains close cooperation with dealers and customers, deeply understands market demand and customer feedback, and adjusts product strategies and marketing plans in a timely manner.
In the global market competition, Komatsu has significant advantages. Its excavator products have excellent performance in technological innovation, product quality and after-sales service. The product performance is stable, the operation is comfortable, and it can meet the personalized needs of different customers. At the same time, the global sales and service network can ensure that customers can enjoy timely and efficient services anytime and anywhere. However, Komatsu also faces challenges. Competitors such as Caterpillar and Volvo are also continuously working on technological innovation and product development, and market competition is becoming increasingly fierce. Moreover, the relatively high price of Komatsu excavators may weaken its competitiveness in some price-sensitive markets.
In the second-hand market, Komatsu excavators are also quite popular. Dealers will conduct strict inspections and evaluations on the acquired Komatsu excavators, and will carefully check everything from engine performance to the operating conditions of the hydraulic system, from the wear degree of structural parts to the maintenance records of the overall equipment. They will provide customers with detailed equipment information, including usage time, maintenance status, etc., so that customers can have a clear idea when purchasing second-hand Komatsu excavators.
Komatsu has firmly occupied a place in the excavator field with its profound historical accumulation, unique brand building strategy and layout in the global market. Despite facing competition and challenges, it has always been constantly adjusting and making progress, continuing to write its own glory in the long river of excavator development.