Double Operating Time With New Electric Excavator

The second generation of the 23.5-ton electric excavator EC230 Electric from Volvo Construction Equipment will be presented at Bauma 2025. According to the manufacturer, the operating hours will be doubled to seven to eight hours.

For Volvo CE, the launch of the updated EC230 Electric crawler excavator marks a significant milestone in the transition to sustainable construction solutions. The machine offers the same long-lasting performance as its diesel counterpart, but with benefits such as zero emissions, nearly silent operation, reduced vibrations, and instant torque.

The medium-sized crawler excavator, first showcased at Bauma China in Shanghai in November 2020, is launched as an ideal partner for medium to heavy applications, such as construction work, earthmoving, demolition, and industrial material handling.

“Our first generation EC230 Electric provided valuable customer insights and market feedback, which was crucial in developing this new generation model. With improved operating time, advanced technology, and extended features, the new and improved EC230 Electric builds on its strong legacy to deliver even greater benefits to both customers and operators,” says Kurt Deleu, Head Product Manager for Excavators at Volvo CE.

With an extended operating time of 7–8 hours thanks to a 600-volt lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 450 kWh, operators can now work a full day without interruption for charging. This makes the electric excavator ideal for noise-sensitive areas and protected environments.

Volvo CE guarantees a peak power of 160 kW, which matches the performance of diesel-powered excavators. Fast charging of the battery allows it to reach 80 percent in one hour with a 250 kW charger.

The efficiency of the hydraulic system has also been improved by 10 percent. The machine comes with features and options such as Volvo Active Control, an integrated weighing system, and Dig Assist 2D and 3D, providing more precise digging, shorter cycle times, and reduced operator fatigue.

The new EC230 Electric will be showcased for the first time at Volvo’s booth at the Bauma fair from April 7–13 in Munich, Germany. Visitors will have the opportunity to see how the futuristic design and innovative features contribute to transforming the industry with safer, more sustainable, and more productive operations.

The new electric machine will be offered in North America and selected European markets starting in the first quarter of 2025. The first generation EC230 Electric will coexist with the updated model for a while. The current version is suitable for customers in light to medium applications, such as waste management, material recycling, and general construction work.