Volvo Construction Equipment has launched two new mid-size crawler excavator models in North America, expanding its new generation of machines.
The new EC260 replaces the EC250 in Volvo’s lineup, while the new EC300 is an update of the previous series model.
Like the other models in the new series, the EC260 and EC300 excavators feature up to 15 per cent greater fuel efficiency, increased productivity, enhanced safety and several upgrades in the cab.
“These 26- and 30-ton models are popular sizes for site preparation, road building and utility applications,” said S.S. Kim, Product Manager for mid-size excavators at Volvo CE.
“And now customers can do these jobs while stretching their fuel supply farther and making operators happier and more productive.”
EC260 excavator
The EC260 excavator is a 26,900-kg machine powered by a 231 hp engine. With a 1.32 cubic metre bucket capacity, the EC260 can lift a maximum 7,210 kg and features a maximum reach of 7.5 metres and a maximum digging depth of 7 metres.
EC300 excavator
The EC300 weighs 30,850 kg and is powered by a 260 hp engine. The larger of the two new introductions has a 1.51 cubic metre bucket capacity and a maximum lifting capacity of 8,690 kg. As well, the EC300 has a maximum reach of 7.5 metres and a maximum digging depth of 7.3 metres.
Both the EC230 and EC300 have a tail swing radius of 3.1 metres.
New features
Volvo CE introduces its new excavator series in May, which represents the most significant update to the Volvo excavator lineup in about 20 years.
The new machines feature an optimized electro-hydraulic system, smart cooling system and engine speed regulation that contribute to up to 15 per cent better fuel efficiency.
As well, the excavators deliver better machine control for smooth and precise movement of the boom, bucket and other hydraulic components, and 10 work modes, including two specific to power and four specific to automatic ECO modes.
A new creep travel mode coupled with boom and arm shock reduction for reduced spillage and added safety.
Volvo Smart View with Obstacle Detection gives operators 360-degree visibility of the machine’s surroundings and the ability to distinguish between objects and humans.
Volvo Active Control, the manufacturer’s machine control system, combined with an advanced electric joystick automate boom and bucket movement for precision and efficiency.
For serviceability, the new generation machines have a 50 per cent increase in hydraulic oil life with service intervals extended to 3,000 hours for regular hydraulic oil and 6,000 hours for long-life hydraulic oil.
Cab makeover
Volvo CE has also made several cab updates designed to improve operator comfort, productivity and safety.
The new cab includes an updated seat, a larger heated side mirror and additional lights, sun screens and storage areas. The machines also include a keyless start with the ability to store multiple operator preference settings.
Also, an improved human-machine interface (HMI) and a larger, higher-resolution Co-Pilot tablet assist with applications like on-board weighing, in-field design and more.
There are now eight models in the new Volvo excavator series, and more are expected to join the lineup in the coming months.
