Updated Volvo EC230 Electric boasts full-day operation
New-generation 23-tonne excavator offers extended runtime of 7–8 hours on a single charge
THE advanced technology behind the new-generation makeover of the 23-tonne EC230 Electric excavator from Volvo CE gives customers double the typical operating hours of its predecessor.
Now capable of a full day of operation on a single charge, the upgraded EC230 Electric signals a groundbreaking and sustainable evolution in heavy construction. Moreover, the battery-electric excavator combines state-of-the-art features and an updated design with enhanced efficiency, greater safety, and superior operator experience.
The launch of the updated EC230 Electric marks a significant milestone in the transition towards sustainable, zero-emission, heavy-duty construction solutions, offering the same robust – and now long lasting – performance as its diesel counterpart but with the added benefits of zero exhaust emissions, near silent operation, reduced vibration, and instant torque.
The mid-size machine, which has already been proving its worth on jobsites around the world, re-enters the market as an ideal partner for medium to heavy-duty applications, such as building, demolition, and industrial material handling.
Kurt Deleu, head of product management – excavators, said: ‘Our first-generation EC230 Electric provided valuable customer insights and market feedback which played a pivotal role in shaping the development of this new-generation model. With improved runtime, advanced technologies and expanded capabilities, the new and improved EC230 Electric builds on its strong legacy to deliver even greater benefits to customers and operators alike.’
Offering an extended runtime of 7–8h per charge – powered by its 600V lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 450kWh – operators can now work a full day without interruption, making it ideal for noise-sensitive and environmentally restricted areas.
Moreover, a peak motor power of 160kW ensures a performance equivalent to diesel excavators, while fast charging capabilities allow the battery to reach 80% in just 1h with a 250kW charger.
Hydraulic efficiency is also improved by 10% and – when matched with additional features such as Volvo Active Control, On-Board Weighing and Dig Assist 2D and 3D – the electric excavator is said to offer unparalleled machine guidance and control. This not only provides more precise digging, shorter cycle times, and reduced operator fatigue, but it sets a new standard for electric performance by maximizing productivity while minimizing environmental impact.
Building on the success of its predecessor, the enhanced EC230 Electric inherits a suite of improvements found in Volvo’s new-generation excavators. These include:
An enhanced operator experience, thanks to a revamped cab environment with greater space, comfort, and functionality
An intelligent electro-hydraulic system allowing smoother, more precise movements of the boom, bucket, and other attachments
Innovative safety features such as HD Volvo Smart View with People and Obstacle Classification, providing operators with 360° visibility and deep-learning technology to detect potential hazards.
The new and improved EC230 Electric will be seen for the first time on Volvo’s bauma stand, from 7–13 April, at the Messe München trade fair in Munich, Germany. Visitors will get the chance to see how its cutting-edge design and innovative features are helping to transform the industry with safer, more sustainable and more productive operation.
The new electric machine will be available in North America and select European markets starting in the first quarter of 2025. The first-generation EC230 Electric will co-exist with the updated model for some time, with the current version suiting customers in light-to-medium-duty applications, such as waste and recycling and general construction.
