At a time when the value segment of the yellow metal equipment sector is continuously gaining traction in South Africa, and Africa at large, Burgers Equipment and Spares has entered into a distributorship agreement with XCMG, China’s largest mining and construction original equipment manufacturer (OEM), and the fourth largest globally.
“Our decision to partner with XCMG is driven by its exceptional machine quality, global scale and consistency in manufacturing. The OEM’s ability to produce robust, innovative and reliable equipment aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering high-performance solutions to our customers. XCMG’s reputation as the number one construction machinery manufacturer in China and the fourth largest globally gave us confidence, not only in its products, but also the long-term support capabilities,” explains Tiaan Burger, MD of Burgers Equipment and Spares.
With over 20 years of experience supplying and supporting equipment across industries, including mining, construction and agriculture, amongst others, Burgers Equipment and Spares has a strong understanding of the market in South Africa. Equally, XCMG, a globally recognised brand, has made its mark in South Africa since its first arrival back in 2007.
Burger stresses that the alliance between the two established partners will usher in a positive, seamless customer experience fostered by a strong OEM-dealer collaboration whose strategic intent is to maximise customer satisfaction – a crucial success lever in such a competitive market.
Broad range
Under the agreement, Burgers Equipment and Spares will distribute a vast range of XCMG equipment. The selected range comprises wheel loaders, excavators, motor graders, single-drum hydrostatic rollers, forklifts, backhoe loaders, skid steers loaders, drill rigs, cranes, cold recyclers and the 80-tonne (t) mining dump trucks, amongst others.
Commenting on the range, Burger says proper equipment selection is essential in earthmoving projects, as each machine is engineered for specific functions. Utilising the right machine for the right application maximises performance and project outcomes. With that in mind, Burgers Equipment and Spares strategically selected specific configurations of various XCMG machines that directly align with local customers’ needs.
“A prime example is our flagship 5-t wheel loader, the XC958. This fully mine-spec machine is powered by a 164-kW Cummins QSB6.7 engine, paired with a ZF 4BP210 transmission, and comes with both dry- and wet-brake axle options. Another machine that truly separates itself from its competitors is the 21,5-t excavator, the XE215G. Powered by a 128,5-kW Isuzu 6BG1 engine, complemented by a Kawasaki hydraulic system, this machine offers refined, operator-friendly hydraulic control,” explains Burger.
Major highlight
Apart from the conventional range, a major highlight at the recent official launch was the unveiling of the XCMG HEV wheel loader. The cutting-edge machine places both Burgers and XCMG at the forefront of the electromobility drive in South Africa.
“This machine combines XCMG’s proven expertise in advanced hybrid technology, delivering greater fuel efficiency, lower emissions and reduced operating costs. Designed for demanding earthmoving applications, it provides full performance while promoting environmental sustainability, reflecting the global shift towards greener solutions,” explains Burger.
XCMG’s hybrid loader utilises a three-motor platform that offers high work efficiency, reliability and stable performance. The system recovers excess energy during braking, shovelling and unloading, converting it into electrical energy, thus optimising energy utilisation. Compared with traditional diesel-powered counterparts, the HEV loader can save over 30% in fuel consumption, significantly reducing operating costs for customers.
“The hybrid loader exemplifies XCMG’s commitment to innovation in new energy technologies. Guided by principles of ‘greenification’, intelligence, and sustainable development, XCMG continues to pioneer solutions that are both high-performance and environmentally responsible,” says Burger.
Commenting on the uptake, Burger says that interest in electric and hybrid solutions is growing steadily in South Africa, particularly among environmentally conscious clients and those seeking to reduce operational costs. While adoption is still in its early stages, he adds, the response to the HEV range has been encouraging, and Burgers Equipment and Spares anticipates broader acceptance as awareness and infrastructure improve.
In fact, Opsicol Mining Services, a major mining contractor in South Africa, has become the first recipient of the XCMG HEV wheel loader range in South Africa. Burgers Equipment and Spares used the official launch event to hand over the four machines to Gurban Zeynalov, GM of Opsicol. The fleet – which comprises two 5-t XC958-HEV and two 7-t XC978-HEV units – has been deployed in a coal handling application.
Tremendous potential
Commenting on the outlook of the business, Burger sees tremendous potential for XCMG in South Africa under the stewardship of Burgers Equipment and Spares. With extensive local inventory, parts and service capacity, complemented by targeted solutions for mining and infrastructure customers, the company has the capacity to scale XCMG’s presence across the country.
“Our goal is to improve total cost of ownership for clients while delivering unmatched reliability and aftersales support. We are confident that under our stewardship, XCMG will become a leading choice for customers seeking quality, performance and consistency,” says Burger.
Following the commencement of the partnership agreement in March 2025, Burgers Equipment and Spares has already delivered a number of machines across construction, mining, and agricultural projects. These units are hard at work in bulk earthmoving, site development, infrastructure, and materials handling operations, highlighting a strong interest in the XCMG product. Among the standout performers in the range is the 21,5-t XE215G excavator – currently on special – renowned for its exceptional performance, fuel efficiency and value for money in the 20-t class.
“At Burgers Equipment and Spares, our business is built on strong ethical foundations and is guided by our core values of integrity, commitment, excellence, accountability and respect. For us, delivering a machine is just the beginning – our priority is to keep customers’ assets working harder, longer and smarter through high-quality service and parts support. Held on October 23 during the annual OktoBURGERSfest, the event was more than just a product launch — it was a celebration of partnership, innovation and the bright future ahead for XCMG in South Africa,” concludes Burger.
