Hillhead makes the connected site and autonomy real for all

20 June, 2024

Hillhead 2024’s immersive nature will blend digitally connected sites and technologies with the sector’s ongoing transformation towards alternative fuels. Richard Bradbury, managing director of The QMJ Group, the event organisers, emphasised the scale and immersive experience of this year’s event. Visitors will encounter 600 exhibitors in a sold-out event, driven by unprecedented demand from exhibitors. Extensive preparations have been made, including blasting a significant amount of material to create a demonstration experience that will be the largest yet. The setup will feature a squared-off quarry face area with two large elevated levels, allowing for continuous demonstrations throughout the day.

Visitors can expect a diverse array of equipment displays, including excavators, wheel loaders, articulated dump trucks, crushers, and screeners. Among the many highlights will be a 100-tonne excavator from Hyundai and an all-electric stand from Volvo Equipment, in collaboration with dealer SMT GB. Hitachi will also be showcasing its machines and fully connected site solutions.

A key focus of Hillhead 2024 is to demonstrate the industry’s progress, particularly in digitalisation and sustainable practices. A notable feature will be the autonomous truck demonstration by Bell Equipment, which is anticipated to be a significant highlight. Additionally, a variety of electric-powered machines will be featured in live demonstrations for the first time, showcasing the industry’s move towards more sustainable energy solutions.

Bradbury highlighted the educational impact of Hillhead, explaining that the event not only showcases impressive machinery but also emphasises advancements in the digitalisation of the sector. From telemetry solutions to machine control, drones, AI-driven safety, and advanced 3D site management and modelling, the connected site will truly come alive this year. Enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity on-site will enable live data feeds from the demonstrations, providing real-time insights and enhancing the educational experience.

Significant changes to the event layout have been made to enhance the visitor experience. The indoor pavilion has been expanded by more than 30%, providing more space for exhibitors and attendees. Recognising the importance of Hillhead as a meeting place, feedback from the 2022 show has been incorporated, resulting in the creation of the Big Hillhead Cafe and food court as a central outdoor hub for visitors and exhibitors alike. Additional permanent welfare facilities and new water hydration stations offering cold, filtered water for free will be available around the site. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, which will be particularly beneficial if the weather is favourable.

For those looking to capture memorable moments, an enlarged viewing platform will offer prime spots for social media-worthy photos. This platform will provide visitors with an excellent vantage point to view the entire event and capture the scale and excitement of Hillhead 2024.

Hillhead 2024 promises to be an informative and engaging event where visitors can stay updated on the latest industry trends and advancements being made in the construction and quarrying industries. The event will provide invaluable insights into the future of the sector, driven by technology and sustainability.

Registration for Hillhead is free and can be completed at: 

http://www.hillhead.com

https://x.com/hillheadshow

https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hillhead/about/