WHC First In The UK To Introduce Kubota KX019-4E Retrofit Fleet: Sustainable Innovation in Plant Hire
The construction industry is confronting one of its greatest challenges: cutting operational emissions while maintaining financial viability. With ambitious targets calling for a 68% reduction in carbon output within the next few years, businesses are under mounting pressure to adopt greener alternatives.
Yet the reality on the ground tells a different story. Diesel-powered machinery still dominates UK sites, while newer electric and hybrid equipment still attracts higher rental costs. For many construction firms, the transition has simply been out of reach.
Bridging the Gap with Kubota Retrofit
In Nov 2024, Kubota introduced its Retrofit system. A groundbreaking technology that allows small excavators to be converted from diesel to electric and back again. This innovation gives construction businesses the flexibility to use a single machine across a wide range of projects, while cutting emissions without compromising performance.
However, even this solution remained financially challenging for many, especially when purchasing new units, until WHC Hire Services stepped in.
WHC Hire Services: Making Green Equipment Accessible
WHC Hire Services, an award-winning independent plant hire company operating across Gloucester, Oxfordshire, and Worcestershire, has been leading the way in the innovation of machinery for over 25 years. By reinvesting in new equipment on a 48-month rotation and partnering with leading manufacturers like Kubota, JCB, Manitou, and Bomag, WHC Hire has consistently delivered cutting-edge solutions to its clients.
In 2019, WHC was the first independent hire company to operate a JCB electric mini digger. While the experiment revealed challenges in cost and performance, the experience paved the way for the company to explore smarter, more practical solutions.
Fast forward to 2025, WHC Hire is closing the gap between sustainability and affordability. By adopting Kubota’s latest Retrofit technology, WHC has become the first UK independent hire company to convert existing low-hours excavators into electric.
A Game-Changer For The Hire Industry
The Kubota KX019-4E Retrofit machines redefine what construction hire can offer. Combining top-tier performance with flexibility and significant cost savings, these machines allow businesses to cut hire costs by up to 45% compared with similar electric equipment. Without ever compromising on power or functionality.
Powered by an 18kW electric engine, WHC’s KX019-4E matches the performance of diesel models while remaining fully transportable, even with buckets and breakers attached, so trailers are never overloaded. Its reliable quick-hitch system makes changing attachments fast and safe, all from the comfort of the cabin.
With its fully electric, zero-emission operation, WHC’s KX019-4E is ideally suited to sensitive sites, urban environments, indoor projects, and underground work. A single fully charged battery powers up to 5- 6 hours of continuous operation, keeping projects running efficiently while reducing downtime and environmental impact.
MD James Clutterbuck commented,
“This is a defining moment for WHC Hire. With the introduction of the Kubota KX019-4E Retrofit units, we are helping clients bridge the gap between diesel and alternative power methods. After months of planning and close collaboration with Kubota and our suppliers, we’re proud to be the UK’s first to offer these zero-emissions excavators that are both sustainable and financially viable. This technology enables more businesses to adopt alternative fuel machinery, supporting their own emissions targets while also contributing to a greener construction sector as we approach 2030. We’re excited to add this solution to our fleet in 2026.”
Available Nationwide in 2026
WHC Hire’s first Kubota KX019-4E Retrofit machine is now available for hire from all WHC Hire depots with more units coming in 2026. Businesses can explore the latest additions on the WHC Hire website or speak to their local depot for hire rates and availability.
