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Volvo CE Unveils Next-Gen Wheel Loaders: Making Heavy Lifting a Breeze

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) rolled out its brand-new generation of wheel loaders, promising to make heavy-duty work feel a little more like a breeze. With an emphasis on productivity, operator comfort, and safety, these loaders combine cutting-edge technology with friendly usability—perfect for anyone who’d rather spend less time fiddling with controls and more time moving mountains (or at least piles of gravel).

Dubbed the first wave of a next-generation lineup, Volvo CE is launching five models—L150, L180, L200 High Lift, L220, and L260—covering a range of applications from material handling to demolition. Whether you’re loading trucks, shifting soil, or tackling recycling tasks, there’s a size and spec to suit your job site’s demands.

Photo: Volvo CE

To supercharge productivity, these loaders feature advanced load-sensing hydraulics for faster cycle times, automatic bucket leveling that snaps the bucket back to neutral after tipping or driving, and an Auto Bucket Fill function that guarantees a perfect load every time. Plus, Smart Control kicks in a fuel-efficient engine mode by default—helping you save on fuel bills without even thinking about it. And for those aiming to lower their carbon footprint, all models are compatible with HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil).

Under the hood, Volvo’s own drivetrain ensures seamless synchronization between engine, transmission, and axles. Innovations like OptiShift and the patented Reverse By Braking (RBB) feature shave seconds off each cycle and extend component lifespan, while the TP-link system delivers high breakout torque and consistent parallel lift throughout the arm’s range. In short, these machines don’t just work hard—they work smart.

Inside the new cab. Photo: Volvo CE

Inside the cabin, driver happiness is front and center. The refreshed design introduces Volvo Co-Pilot—capable of displaying up to four interface apps simultaneously—alongside a dynamic instrument cluster positioned right in the driver’s line of sight. Thoughtful touches like extra storage compartments, new armrests, cup holders, USB charging ports, and premium heated/cooled seats make long shifts feel surprisingly cozy. And for true joystick enthusiasts, an optional single-lever control reduces fatigue even on marathon workdays.

Maintenance teams will appreciate the service-friendly layout: the cabin tilts up to either 30°, 60°, or even 70° (on larger models) for easy access to key components, while handy under-grille work lights brighten your refueling stops. Brake-wear indicators on the wheels, a new service platform, and strategically placed tie-off points outside the cabin keep routine checks simple and safe.

Safety and easy maintenance was key in the development. Photo: Volvo CE

Safety never takes a back seat, either. Optional Volvo Smart View delivers a full 360° perspective around the machine via Co-Pilot, and the updated Collision Mitigation System warns operators of obstacles when reversing at speeds as low as 0.5 km/h. Bright orange handrails, non-slip steps, automated door opening, enhanced lighting, and a flashing grill beacon all work together to keep everyone on site in the clear.

For those who love data, Volvo CE offers a suite of digital add-ons: real-time Load Assist with onboard weighing, Operator Coaching, Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS), and the new Load Ticket solution to streamline invoicing from the cab to the office. Site Operations helps manage mixed fleets, and the CareTrack telematics system watches over your machines 24/7 to minimize downtime and cut maintenance costs.

The new generation of wheel loaders will gradually reach selected markets around the globe throughout 2025, giving customers everywhere a chance to load smarter, work faster, and maybe even enjoy the ride a little more.