Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has made a splash in Southeast Asia to boost customer efficiency, productivity and safety.
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has celebrated its biggest launch since Volvo Days 2024, unveiling its new-generation excavators, articulated haulers, wheeled loaders and more. The rollout of the new-generation excavators is already underway in Southeast Asian markets.
The first five excavator models in the new generation range – EC210, EC220, EC230, EC300 and EC360 – have been offered for sale across the region since January. Singapore hosted the first launch, with a customer event attended by more than 100 people on January 17.
The flagship 20-tonne new generation EC210 model was displayed alongside the L120 electric wheeled loader at the event. Further launch events are planned across the region, where customers can see the new range up close and in person.
The launch of the new generation excavators aligns with Volvo CE’s ‘Our EDGE to Success’ framework in Asia. The framework emphasises the company’s commitment to delivering customer success through competitive products, excellent services and a dependable distribution network.
The EDGE concept was first introduced during the Region Asia dealer conference in September 2024 to underscore the importance of collaboration among Volvo, its dealers and its customers.
The Volvo engine in the new generation excavators provides higher power and torque to maximise performance, with 10 work modes for effectively using engine power across all segments and applications. The powerful engine, matched hydraulics and faster cycle times on a new generation EC210 can boost customers’ productivity, according to Volvo CE.
Due to the robust machine design and heavy-duty configuration, the new generation EC210 can be used across all segments, no matter the application. The machines also increased the on-site safety for operators with three-point side access, emergency shutdown, rearview camera and anti-slip plates.
Operator comfort is ensured with more precise controls, a rollover protective structure (ROPS) cab, an ergonomically designed human–machine interface, and an improved operator environment.
The new generation Volvo excavators feature improved hydraulics that dramatically reduce fuel consumption. This is done by regulating engine speed and hydraulic flow rate based on the task at hand, leading to up to 15 per cent fuel economy improvement and lower operating costs.
Minimising downtime is key to protecting customers’ return on investment. The new generation excavators are designed for easy service access and longer service intervals to drive down maintenance costs and increase machine availability. A fuel shut-off valve also facilitates fuel filter changes, avoiding fuel spillage and further reducing costs.
“This new generation excavator series represents years of collaboration and innovation. We are excited to introduce these machines to customers in Region Asia, addressing the specific demands of the regional construction sector,” Volvo CE’s president of region Asia, Tomas Kuta, said
“Our customers are facing unique challenges, and these machines are designed to help them stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.”
New Hitachi wheeled loaders impress
Norwegian contractor Grønseth Maskin AS purchased its first Hitachi wheeled loader in 2011 and has clocked over 11,000 hours. The contractor is now supported by the latest model, the ZW310-7, which is already making its mark in Gjemnes.
Oddmund Grønseth started his company at just 19, with a tractor and a few ditch-cleaning jobs, and Grønseth Maskin AS has expanded rapidly over the years. His sons, Kurt and Ole Jonny, run the business today, though Oddmund still operates machinery.
He said his first Hitachi loader, the ZW310, was purchased 13 years ago from Norwegian dealer Nasta AS.
“It met our needs perfectly, was well-priced and has required very few repairs. It’s been incredibly reliable,” he said. “It’s got many good hours left in it.”
Despite adding the ZW310-7 over a year ago, Grønseth Maskin AS continues to rely on the trusty ZW310.
“We need both wheeled loaders,” Grønseth said.
“The 25-tonne size is crucial for loading our trucks effectively, both in height and capacity.”
The older wheeled loader remains active at Høgset, while the ZW310-7 supports operations at the crushing plant on Averøya.
Grønseth has taken the new ZW-7 machine for a spin and noted some significant improvements.
“The cab is much quieter and the joystick control is great for comfort,” Grønseth said. “But I’ve always liked the old loader, too – it’s still a great machine.”
When he reflected on the most significant changes since he started working in 1970, Grønseth pointed to advancements in machinery.
“Back then, many machines didn’t even have roofs, and operators were freezing,” he said.
“The progress in technology has been incredible.”
