With local government budgets stretched thin, councils need to ensure that their urban development projects are completed on time and on budget, which is why choosing the right excavator for the job is vital.
Selecting the right excavator size and capability optimises job site performance, but budget-conscious councils also have to consider the bottom line. With innovative features and high flexibility, Volvo’s mid-range lineup can help meet all these needs.
The E-Series excavator range – including the ECR145E, ECR235E and ECR355E models – blend advanced technology with practical design features. On a long list of technical capabilities, the range also offers significantly improved fuel efficiency. Volvo says the machines deliver versatility and power across a wide variety of sites and operational needs, to achieve project efficiency and cost management.
Mid-range, max power
Available in Australia through CJD Equipment, Volvo’s mid-range excavator lineup has three main models designed to meet specific operational requirements.
Volvo’s E-Series short-swing excavator range includes the ECR145E (14 tonne), ECR235E (23 tonne), and ECR355E (35 tonne) models. These machines feature a narrow body design with a centrally positioned boom that enables precise operation in tight spaces.
E-Series excavators have been shown to deliver 25 per cent better fuel economy than their predecessors.
The machines have a smart cooling system for optimal performance, engine speed regulation and pump optimisation, plus auto-engine idle and shutdown features that reduce fuel consumption. They also boast an electro-hydraulic control system, providing smooth and precise movement of the excavator’s boom and bucket.
Built for the built environment
Volvo’s short-swing excavator range has been engineered for compact worksites without compromising on strength or stability. Independent testing of their performance has shown the machines strike a balance of precision and power, supporting strong performance across varied tasks.
The short swing radius design allows operators to work safely and efficiently in tight spaces – particularly valuable in urban environments where conventional machines often struggle. The ECR145E, ECR235E and ECR355E retain full power and lift capacity while offering improved manoeuvrability and access on congested sites.
Advanced operator support
Operator support systems in the Volvo E-Series are designed to boost operator productivity without removing control.
The series includes some advanced features for efficiency and performance. Up to 20 different attachment settings can be saved under password protection, and adjustments to hydraulic flow and pressure can be made directly from the cab.
Volvo has also introduced electric pedal control for precise attachment operation. The E-Series also features an integrated valve system working in tandem with ECO mode to enhance fuel efficiency without reducing performance. Together, these features aim to support consistent, controlled operations across a range of job conditions.
Reducing cost of ownership
Understanding the financial side of excavator ownership is key to making informed investment decisions. Fuel usually represents the largest share of operating costs – more than labour, maintenance or insurance expenses. Cutting fuel use can make a significant difference.
Volvo says that its latest D8 engine technology delivers up to ten per cent lower fuel consumption compared to earlier models, thanks to a series of system improvements. These include an electronic pump control system that reduces flow losses, a customisable auto-idling feature that activates between 3 and 20 seconds, and the use of ECO Mode to optimise efficiency.
Advanced fuel management systems can also help reduce idle time from an industry average of 50 per cent to as low as 25 per cent, further lowering running costs.
Maintenance has also been streamlined. Volvo excavators feature grouped filtration and greasing points near ground level, wide-opening compartment doors for easy access, and onboard monitoring to track service intervals for critical components.
Alongside reduced fuel use, the machines are designed to lower maintenance costs through proactive diagnostics, and offer extended warranty coverage.
Safety and operator comfort
Volvo puts operator wellbeing at the forefront with its Volvo Care Cab ensuring low noise levels, minimal vibration and unmatched visibility through large glass panels with slim cab pillars.
The cab also includes an industry-leading air circulation system with 14 well-placed vents, a multi-adjustable seat with up to 12 different position settings, ergonomic armrests and joystick console mounted on the same suspension to better absorb shocks. Comfort can be further enhanced by customisable control patterns and joystick responsiveness that operators can personalise from the monitor.
Also on the safety front, Volvo’s E-Series cab structures meet ROPS (roll over protective structure) certification standards to protect operators in challenging conditions.
Better visibility is achieved through Volvo Smart View, which provides an immediate 360-degree overhead view of the machine, as well as side and rear-view cameras displayed on a colour monitor. Additionally, a low machine hood design improves rear visibility.
The machine’s safe movement features include three-point right-hand side access that ensures safe entry and exit, bolted anti-slip plates to provide superior grip, as well as high visibility handrails and guardrails.
Right choice
Volvo’s 14 to 35 tonne E-Series excavator lineup excels on all types of projects and work sites, while delivering significantly improved fuel efficiency compared to previous generations.
The short swing radius and centralised boom design makes these machines ideal for urban construction sites, allowing operators to work at full power and lift capacity, even in tight spaces. Volvo’s range is ideal for local governments investing in the future of their infrastructure and eager to deliver major improvements for their communities.
For more on Volvo’s excavator range visit cjd.com.au
