Volvo Construction Equipment is set to launch its EC230 Electric excavator and L120 Electric wheel loader in North America early next year. This announcement was made during the Volvo Days event in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. These mid-size electric machines are designed to meet the increasing demand for more powerful, environmentally friendly construction equipment.
Dr. Ray Gallant, Vice President of Sustainability and Productivity Services at Volvo Construction Equipment, emphasized the significance of these new electric models, saying, “These larger battery-electric machines represent a major leap toward zero-emission solutions. They are designed to help both businesses and government fleets achieve their sustainability and productivity targets.” Gallant also pointed out that the electric versions provide comparable performance to their diesel counterparts but offer significant advantages, including zero emissions, reduced noise levels, and lower maintenance costs.
Volvo L120 Electric Wheel Loader: Power and Efficiency
The L120 Electric wheel loader is a beast of a machine with an operating weight between 41,887 and 47,399 pounds. It offers a bucket capacity ranging from 3.92 to 12.43 cubic feet and a lifting capacity of 6 tons, making it a powerful tool for various construction tasks. The loader is equipped with a 282-kWh lithium-ion battery system, allowing it to run for five to nine hours on a single charge, depending on the type of application. For charging, Volvo provides two options: a 50-kW DC mobile charger that can fully charge the machine in around six hours, and a 150-kW DC fast charger, which cuts the charging time down to just two hours. This flexibility ensures that users can minimize downtime and keep their projects on schedule.
Volvo EC230 Electric Excavator: A New Era of Digging
The EC230 Electric excavator is equally impressive, with an operating weight between 50,000 and 57,000 pounds. It offers a maximum digging depth of 22 feet and 1 inch, and a bucket capacity of 1.44 cubic yards. The excavator also delivers a breakout force of 33,500 lb.-ft., making it more than capable of handling tough digging jobs. Its 450-kWh battery allows the machine to operate for seven to eight hours on a single charge, depending on the workload. Like its wheel loader counterpart, the EC230 Electric excavator provides the same power and efficiency as its diesel version but with the added benefits of zero emissions and quieter operation.
Field Testing and Future Prospects
The EC230 Electric excavator has already undergone field testing with major industry players such as Skanska, Turner Construction, and Waste Management. The feedback from these tests has been positive, reinforcing Volvo’s position as a leader in the push toward greener construction solutions. With this new lineup of electric equipment, Volvo is not only addressing the immediate needs of the industry but also preparing for a future where sustainability and performance go hand in hand.
In conclusion, Volvo’s introduction of the EC230 Electric excavator and L120 Electric wheel loader to the North American market represents a significant shift in the construction industry. These electric machines offer powerful, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional diesel-powered equipment, enabling companies to meet both environmental and productivity goals. As the demand for sustainable construction solutions grows, Volvo continues to lead the way with innovative products that meet the challenges of today’s construction world.
Fulian Operation Team
2024.10.14
