Volvo CE introduce new EC380E Hybrid excavator
Company increases size of hybrid crawler excavator range with new 38-tonne class machine
VOLVO Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) are introducing their biggest excavator model yet to their continually expanding hybrid range, helping to increase fuel efficiency by up to 17%.
Boasting all the power of its non-hybrid counterpart, the 38-tonne 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 Volvo’s hydraulic hybrid technology, the machine is said to be an ideal option for customers looking to save fuel, reduce emissions, and boost the profitability of their operations.
Now the largest hybrid excavator in the line, Volvo CE say the new arrival is built on a solid foundation. The unveiling of the EC300E Hybrid in 2019, hailed at the time for pushing the boundaries of efficiency while still maintaining power and productivity, only scratched the surface of what Volvo CE hybrid technology could achieve. Since its launch it has proven itself as a reliable partner on the job site, been recently upgraded with an all-new powertrain, and seen two new hybrid machines join the family – the 25-tonne class EC250E Hybrid and 35-tonne class EC350E Hybrid.
Kangwook Kim, global product manager, said: ‘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 to provide the most efficient, flexible, and environmentally responsible solutions for our customers.’
Every machine in the hybrid range uses Volvo’s hydraulic-hybrid technology that harvests ‘free’ energy generated by the down motion of the excavator boom. The powerful and regular boom-down motions charge a hydraulic accumulator, which 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, offering the same levels of controllability and performance as non-hybrid machines.
According to Volvo CE, the biggest difference between their hybrid concept and those of their competitors is that it uses the up and down motion of the boom to capture free energy. Other systems typically use the swing motion to capture energy. With Volvo CE, customers can capture the energy of a typical loading cycle, which is how the system is able to optimize workflow.
The new, cost-effective, and reliable hybrid solution is said to be easy to maintain and consists of just a handful of add-on components, meaning no disruption or complication to how the high-performing 38-tonne class excavator works.
EC380E Hybrid – Key specifications
Operating weight: 37,800–43,000kg
Gross power 230kW (308hp) at 1,700 rev/min
Bucket capacity 0.8–2.53 cubic metres
Max digging reach 10,545mm
Max digging depth 6,785mm
Breakout force (normal) 198kN
Breakout force (boost) 215kN
Tear out force (normal) 196kN
Tear out force (boost) 213kN
