Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is introducing the biggest model so far in its hybrid excavator range.
The Sweden-based manufacturer says that, in addition to helping enable increased fuel efficiency of up to 17%, the new 38-ton class EC380E Hybrid also offers a reduction in CO2 emissions of up to 15%.
The new machine utilises Volvo’s hydraulic hybrid technology and builds on the EC300E Hybrid excavator that the company launched in 2019. Since its launch, Volvo CE says the EC300E Hybrid has proven itself as a reliable partner on the jobsite, and has been recently upgraded with an all-new powertrain. Two new hybrid machines have recently joined the family – the 25-ton class EC250E Hybrid and 35-ton class EC350E Hybrid.
Kangwook Kim, Volvo CE global product manager, said: “We knew when we launched the EC300E Hybrid two years ago that we were only at the beginning of our hybrid journey. Our unique hybrid hydraulic technology has proved it has the potential to work across a range of excavators, no matter the size, and we will continue to build on our offering in order to provide the most efficient, flexible and environmentally responsible solutions for our customers.”
Volvo’s hydraulic-hybrid technology is designed to harvest ‘free’ energy generated by the down motion of the excavator’s boom. The powerful and regular boom-down motions charge a hydraulic accumulator, which then stores and delivers energy, when needed, to drive the hydraulic assist motor that helps power the engine system. Volvo CE says the Hybrid models involve no compromise in ability, with these excavators offering the same levels of controllability and performance as non-hybrid machines.
The manufacturer says that the biggest difference between its own hybrid concept and those of its competitors is that it uses the up and down motion of the boom to capture free energy.
“Other systems typically use the swing motion and capture energy that way,” the manufacturer states. “With Volvo CE, customers are able to capture the energy of a typical loading cycle, which is really how the system is able to optimise workflow.”
It adds that the hybrid solution is easy to maintain and consists of just a handful of add-on components, meaning no disruption or complication to how the 38-ton class excavators work.
With this latest machine to the hybrid range, Volvo CE is committed to a more sustainable operation and a reduced environmental footprint.
