Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has unveiled its new generation of excavators for the Middle East and African markets.
As part of the launch, Volvo CE has revealed the key engineering upgrades in the new generation machinery, which it has said is delivering power, durability, and fuel efficiency for operators.
The original equipment manufacturer announced the renewal of the mid-size excavator range, which includes the EC210, EC220, EC230, EC260, EC300, and EC360 models. The new machinery has been tested in side-by-side comparisons with its predecessors under real-world conditions, demonstrating improvements in productivity and fuel economy.
“We made a strategic decision to build the entire range as heavy duty from the start,” Volvo CE international region excavator product manager Olle Watz said.
“This new standard ensures every excavator is prepared for demanding applications, including continuous work with a hydraulic breaker, providing customers with greater versatility and a more durable asset.”
Volvo CE has engineered the entire new generation as an ‘HD lineup’. The upper frame has been significantly redesigned for increased robustness and strength. The company wanted this mid-size excavators to perform in any environment from hard rock quarries to large-scale infrastructure projects.
The EC260 to EC360 models feature a Volvo D8L engine which is the same model used in many Volvo Trucks and Volvo Buses. It is capable of performing at a maximum of 1600rpm under load. The EC210-EC230 models can include either a Volvo D5E or D6E engine with a maximum 1800rpm under load.
According to Volvo CE, the Volvo EC210 demonstrated up to 14 per cent better fuel efficiency compared to comparable models. The EC360 recorded up to 21 per cent greater fuel efficiency at peak rpm compared to other models.
The EC260 to EC360 models feature a new boom/swing priority function as standard. This new feature helps operators manage hydraulic flow.
“The boom/swing priority is a simple but highly effective feature,” Watz said.
“By allowing operators to allocate hydraulic flow where it’s needed most, they can significantly cut cycle times in repetitive loading positions common in mining and quarrying. It’s a smart way to boost productivity without any extra cost.”
A key update is the new human-machine interface (HMI) on the new generation excavators. Also included is the now ROPS-certified cab features an upgraded air conditioning system, a new clearer display, and a more intuitive layout of controls. A standard rearview camera and an optional three-point seatbelt enhance site safety.
Technology is a key to the success of the new Volvo excavators. Customers can equip the new generation of excavators with the machine control system Volvo Dig Assist. The Dig Assist system supports accurate operation. Key functions including 2D for easily setting depth and slope on simpler jobs, In-Field Design for using satellite technology to design and excavate complex shapes with centimetre-level accuracy, and 3D functionality for uploading complex engineering plans. On-Board Weighing feature provides real-time data on the bucket’s load, preventing overloading of trucks.
“It was crucial that our customers in the Middle East and Africa have access to the same advanced technology as anywhere else in the world,” Watz said.
“The full suite of Dig Assist is available, with system capabilities that are 100 per cent identical to what is offered in Europe. This gives contractors a powerful tool to bid on and execute complex projects with maximum precision.”
