Helene Mellquist is president and CEO of sister firm Volvo Penta and said that the group is committed to delivering sustainable solutions for the construction and quarrying segments that will be fossil-free, while also delivering improved productivity and safety for customers.
Volvo CE is now introducing a further four electric construction machines, in addition to the two the firm already offers. Jernberg said, “The electric machines are designed to do the same job as the diesel machines.” He added that the electric models also have some benefits over diesel units, “We have machines working in indoor demolition and indoor recycling.”
The firm’s new electric EC230 excavator and DD25 twin drum asphalt compactor variants are key additions to the Volvo CE range. Jernberg said, “The new DD25 electric is the equivalent of the diesel model but is much quieter. We will be manufacturing the electric DD25 in the Shippensburg factory.”
Meanwhile, the Volvo Group is also researching the use of alternative fuels for its machines, having developed a prototype ADT powered by fuel cells. Jernberg said, “We are investing a lot in combustion engines running on hydrogen.”
Volvo Penta is also developing its battery storage technology, as well as boosting its capabilities in electric drivelines. Mellquist said, “This is true innovation. Our engineers are optimising electric drivelines for other applications.”
And the Volvo Group is researching how best to derive second life capabilities from battery packs, as well as recycling the materials from used batteries, according to Melmberg and Mellquist. And the firm is even offering a new lease package through Volvo Financial Services for electric machines. This forms part of an approach to developed further partnerships with customers. Melker commented, “Partnership is the new leadership.”
Booth F8926
