Volvo CE increases the size and range of its hybrid machines with new gentle giant

Volvo Construction Equipment is introducing its biggest model yet to its continually expanding hybrid range, helping to increase fuel efficiency by up to 17%.

Boasting all the power of their non-hybrid counterparts, the 38-ton class EC380E Hybrid has the added benefit of being a more environmentally respectful choice, offering a reduction in CO2 emissions of up to 15%. Featuring the unique hydraulic hybrid Volvo technology, this hard worker is the perfect option for customers looking to save fuel, lower emissions and boost the profitability of their operations.

Now the largest hybrid excavators in the line, this new arrival is built on a solid foundation. The unveiling of the revolutionary EC300E Hybrid back in 2019, hailed at the time for pushing the boundaries of efficiency while still maintaining power and productivity, was only just scratching the surface of what Volvo CE hybrid technology could achieve. Since its launch, it has proven itself as a reliable partner on the jobsite, been recently upgraded with an all-new powertrain and has seen two new hybrid machines join the family – the 25-ton class EC250E Hybrid and 35-ton class EC350E Hybrid.

Kangwook Kim, Global Product Manager, says: “We knew when we launched the EC300E Hybrid two years ago that we were only at the beginning of our hybrid journey. Our unique hybrid hydraulic technology has proved it has the potential to work across a range of excavators, no matter the size, and we will continue to build on our offering in order to provide the most efficient, flexible and environmentally responsible solutions for our customers.”

Every machine in the hybrid range uses Volvo’s unique hydraulic-hybrid technology that harvests ‘free’ energy generated by the down motion of the excavator’s boom. The powerful and regular boom-down motions charge a hydraulic accumulator, which then stores and delivers energy, when needed, to drive the hydraulic assist motor that helps power the engine system. The Hybrid models involve no compromise in ability, with these excavators offering the same levels of controllability and performance as non-hybrid machines.

The biggest difference between Volvo CE’s hybrid concept and those of its competitors is that it uses the up and down motion of the boom to capture free energy. Other systems typically use the swing motion and capture energy that way. With Volvo CE, customers are able to capture the energy of a typical loading cycle, which is really how the system is able to optimize workflow.

The cost-effective and reliable hybrid solution is easy to maintain and consists of just a handful of add-on components, meaning no disruption or complication to how the high performing 38-ton class excavators work.

With this latest machine to the hybrid range, Volvo CE is committed to a more sustainable operation and a reduced environmental footprint.