Volvo brings hydraulic hybrid technology to 5 new excavator models

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE), with North American headquarters in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, has brought its hydraulic hybrid technology to its newest generation of excavators with the EC260 Hybrid, EC300 Hybrid, EC370 Hybrid, EC400 Hybrid and EC500 Hybrid.

The 26-ton to 50-ton crawlers represent “the future of excavator design,” Volvo CE says, delivering up to 20 percent better fuel efficiency than previous series models and a 15 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. 

“Our hybrid excavators are designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact while maintaining high performance,” says Sejong Ko, product manager of large excavators. “These excavators lower a fleet’s emissions, making them a more environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient choice, especially for work in urban areas."

Volvo CE’s hydraulic hybrid technology allows the excavators to harvest “free” energy generated by the down motion of the machine’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 new-generation excavators from Volvo CE, introduced last May, can increase productivity and lower total cost of ownership thanks to their increased power and efficiency, enhanced operator environment and improved human-machine interface, the company says. 

With the latest models, Volvo CE says customers will see up to 20 percent better fuel efficiency in digging and dumping operations. The new electro-hydraulic system requires fewer hoses and couplings, minimizing maintenance requirements and costs while increasing reliability.