Volvo Construction Equipment has unveiled its new vision for wheel loaders with the debut of the L260.
The 34,890-kg wheel loader, powered by a 414 hp Volvo D13J Tier 4 Final engine, features a new cab as well as several automation features to help operators boost productivity.
The L260 made its first appearance at World of Asphalt in St. Louis, before its official introduction at bauma.
“We’ve given it a nice new, fresh and modern look, but we’ve also updated a lot of features on the machine,” said Eric Yeomans, Product Manager, Wheel Loaders at Volvo CE
In the L260’s updated cab, a new electronic platform offering improves diagnostics, system integrity and fault management. As well, the cab features integrated Volvo Co-Pilot with a new instrument cluster display for easy-to-access machine information.
Volvo CE also included a new battery disconnect switch and a new telematics platform to support an updated Caretrack system and MyEquipment app.
“We continuously hear from operators that we have the best cab in the industry. We continue to improve on that with their feedback,” said Scott Young, President of Volvo CE North America.
L260 specs:
- Dump clearance: 3.24 metres
- Hinge pin height 4.64 metres
- Max bucket load: 11,793 kg
- Rehandling bucket: 7.3 cubic metres
- Breakout force: 63,000 foot pounds
- Static tipping load, straight: 28,214 kg
At the front of the machine, Volvo CE included a new service platform with steps and handles for easy access to the windshield.
“We’re the only one in the industry now that have three points of contact the whole way around to clean the windshield. It makes it easier and safer for the operator,” Yeomans said.
For operators refuelling the L260 in the dark, Volvo CE also included a service light to make the task easier.
“These machines typically work two or three shifts, so you are refuelling in the middle of the night,” Yeomans said.
Powertrain updates
The L260 is equipped with new fuel and oil filter housings, a new electric fuel prime pump and a fast fuel fill option.
As well, the wheel loader features Smart Control with a fuel-efficient engine mode that can reduce fuel consumption by up to 4 per cent.
“With Smart Control, we’re controlling the throttle and we’re also controlling the rim pull from the machine,” Yeomans said. “It just shows you what a difference it makes when you run the machine as it should be.”
The driveline includes a standard front/option rear, as well as the new Automation Traction Control feature, which automatically engages the front differential using electronic clutches.
“So, it’s basically automatic,” Yeomans said. “It eliminates possibility for tires rotating and damaging their tires.”
L260 tech
The L260 is equipped with a collision mitigation system and a Volvo Smart View camera that offers a 360-degree view around the machine.
Another new feature is the Auto Bucket Fill function that helps save time and maximize fuel efficiency.
“With Auto Bucket Fill, we’re controlling the lift, we’re controlling rim pull and we’re controlling throttle,” Yeomans said. “It may not be as efficient as, you know, the best operator on site, but it’s certainly going to be very consistent.”
Auto Bucket Fill uses the same pressure sensors required for Volvo CE’s onboard weighing system to ensure consistency. The feature can be set for sand, gravel or a custom material setting.
“With the industry struggling to find new operators, this is a really great way to get more operators into the industry,” Yeomans said. “It takes a long time to get operators trained and efficient.”
