Komatsu announces investment in Peoria operation along with showcasing of truck that received statewide award

PEORIA ( 25News Now ) - Heavy equipment manufacturer Komatsu has announced investments in its operations in Peoria.

The company said they have broken ground on a new office building that will be a collaborative space for engineering, sales, manufacturing, management and other functions.

The building is being designed for operation efficiency and environmental responsibility, incorporating solar panels, stormwater reclamation systems, and energy-efficient LED lightning.

The company's current office was built in the 70s and will be replaced when this building is completed, planned for the end of 2025.

"Komatsu's commitment to Peoria is a partnership we greatly value," said Peoria Mayor Rita Ali. "The new facility represents a step forward in sustainable manufacturing and strengthening Peoria's economy and community. We're excited to see Komatsu's continued investment in our city, creating opportunities for the next generation of workers."

In addition, Komatsu announced the installation of 980E-5SE mining truck at the entrance.

The truck was built in July 2020 in Peoria as an early prototype and was commercialized in 2023.

The truck was recently crowned the winner of the 2024 Makers Madness contest, and was declared the " Coolest Thing Made in Illinois " after an eight-week bracket-style competition that gathered nearly 315,000 votes.

"This display truck represents more than just a remarkable engineering achievement," said Dan Funcannon, Senior Vice President of Surface Haulage for Komatsu. "It symbolizes our Peoria team's hard work and innovation and reinforces our manufacturing capabilities. We're excited for employees, visitors, and Peoria residents to see firsthand the scale and ingenuity behind our products."