Volvo brings hybrid technology to new-gen excavators

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) announced it is bringing hydraulic hybrid technology to its newest generation of excavators with the 20- to 50-ton EC260 Hybrid, EC300 Hybrid, EC370 Hybrid, EC400 Hybrid and EC500 Hybrid crawler excavator models. The EC400 Hybrid and EC500 Hybrid now represent the largest models in the company’s hybrid portfolio.

The EC400 Hybrid and EC500 Hybrid (shown) are now the biggest models in Volvo’s hybrid portfolio. (Photo: Volvo Construction Equipment)

The hydraulic hybrid technology works by harvesting “free” energy generated by the down motion of the excavator’s boom. The machine uses this boom-down motion to charge the accumulator, then uses the stored energy to drive the assist motor when needed, in turn powering the engine system, the company explained. This results in a 15% reduction in CO2 emissions.

Volvo CE said customers will see up to 20% better fuel efficiency in digging and dumping operations compared to the previous series’ conventional models, while maintaining the same power and performance.

Volvo hybrid accumulator. (Photo: Volvo Construction Equipment)

The new electrohydraulic system requires fewer hoses and couplings, minimizing maintenance requirements and costs while increasing reliability, the company added.

Other features include a robust undercarriage with reinforced idle frame, track links and bottom rollers and strengthened bucket linkage with steel strip, heavy-duty superstructure undercover and easy-to-replace bolt-on wear plates.

Available smart services include Volvo Active Control and Dig Assist with On-Board Weighing.

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