A concept machine can now be seen in the Swedish forests. It´s called Centipede and has been developed by eight Swedish forest industry companies together with Komatsu Forest. The tests are in full swing and according to the involved, the results are promising. 
Centipede
We are talking about a forwarder that has been equipped with tracks instead of wheels. The reason why the eight forest companies have engaged themselves in this is the challenges that the adaption to sustainability and environmental issues brings. Centipede is a machine developed for low-impact forestry.
Three main improvements
The three main benefits that Centipede offers are: lower soil compaction, increased productivity, and a better work environment for the operator. With this high technology machine, the transport speed, and with that the productivity, has increased at the same time as vibrations in the cab and the ground pressure have been reduced. The concept machine can also carry larger loads than a wheeled machine, which of course also increases productivity. Another benefit, mentioned by the test driver, is that the Centipede is stable thanks to the tracks.
The tests will continue during spring 2022, and after that, decisions will be made about the continuation of the project.
More information
Apart from Komatsu Forest, the involved companies are: Södra, Sveaskog, SCA, Holmen, Norra Skog, Mellanskog, Stora Enso, and BillerudKorsnäs.
You can read the press release from Komatsu Forest here.
And here is a short film of the Centipede machine (in Swedish):
Photos and film: Komatsu Forest
