Move over, Caterpillar—the construction industry is getting its “Tesla moment.” Lumina has just unveiled the Moonlander, a fully electric bulldozer that aims to revolutionise earthmoving operations with zero emissions and cutting-edge tech. This 32-tonne beast delivers an impressive 750 horsepower while running completely silently, with only the sound of steel tracks and moving earth to remind you it’s not a ghost machine.
What sets the Moonlander apart isn’t just its electric powertrain—it’s the integration of autonomous capabilities and in-house software development. With a respectable 8-10 hour runtime and the ability to charge from 0-80% in just 50 minutes at speeds up to 300kW, this isn’t just an eco-friendly novelty but a practical workhorse. The 15-foot blade, which Lumina claims offers double the volume of conventional blades, can push 7-9 cubic metres of material throughout an entire workday without breaking a sweat (or emitting carbon).
Founder Ahmed Shubber is taking a page directly from Elon Musk’s playbook, building both hardware and software in-house and planning a unique business model. Rather than simply selling equipment, Lumina plans to operate the machines themselves, offering excavation as a service starting in January 2026. Currently raising between £20-40 million in Series A funding, Lumina is positioning itself not just as a manufacturer but as a full-service construction technology company ready to dig into Caterpillar’s market share.