Komatsu plans to introduce the PC158USLC-12 and PC158USLCi-12 excavators in late 2026, expanding its next-generation -12 excavator lineup with a compact, tight tail-swing model designed for efficiency and an enhanced operator environment. These excavators build on the legacy of Komatsu’s PC138USLC-11, and the PC158USLCi-12 will be Komatsu’s first tight-tail excavator with the latest factory-integrated machine control, IMC 3.0.  

The design of the PC158USLC-12 and PC158USLCi-12 is tailored to the North American market, with an emphasis on enhancing productivity, increasing lift capacity, and improving hydraulic attachment flow while reducing fuel consumption — all within a footprint that is easily transportable from site to site.

Designed for contractors working in space-constrained job sites — such as urban construction, utilities, and roadwork — these excavators are built to help operators work more confidently while maintaining control over grade, boundary restrictions, and attachment performance. They reflect Komatsu’s continued focus on integrating technology and an operator-centered design to improve productivity and address workforce challenges.

The PC158USLCi-12, featuring IMC 3.0, introduces several advanced features new to this size class to enhance productivity, working accuracy, and job site safety. 

Previous introductions to the -12 excavator lineup include the PC220LCi-12 with IMC 3.0 — a machine that seamlessly integrates cutting-edge technology. 

Key features of both excavators include:

• New electric hydraulic control system improves operability by providing customization of work equipment speeds, joystick response, and combined operation balance to meet the preferences of each operator
• Newly designed wide-profile cab improves visibility and provides a more spacious, comfortable working environment; features a new multi-function seat, EPC joysticks, and an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen monitor to maximize operator comfort during long working shifts
• Komvision 360-degree monitoring system with human and object and human detection can increase operator awareness and mitigate the risk of accidental collision during operation with auto-stop control
• Additional standard features include 2D machine control, 2D boundary control, a bucket payload monitoring system, and joystick travel to boost job site efficiency