Volvo CE unveil new-generation demolition excavators

Latest EC400 and EC500 models raise the bar on productivity, efficiency, and operator comfort 

TWO new-generation high-reach excavators from Volvo Construction Equipment (CE) have been launched to bring customers into the future and raise the bar on strength, productivity, and operator comfort across demolition applications.

The latest EC400 and EC500 demolition excavator models – which, respectively, replace the previous generation EC380EHR and EC480EHR units – have a fresh design and are equipped with the latest innovations to outperform the competition.

Martijn Donkersloot, product manager for demolition equipment at Volvo CE, said: ‘We are committed to producing the ultimate in heavy-duty demolition machinery. These new models have been designed to efficiently respond to customer needs, which we found out after talking to many customers and operators all over the world – and because we make our machines from start to finish – every detail has been carefully considered and improved to ensure the best possible performance.’

Benefitting from new updates, the machines enjoy a 15% fuel efficiency improvement due to engine pump optimization, better ground-level access/longer service intervals, more precise controls, and a quieter working environment. 

For increased safety, the high-reach demolition excavators are equipped with Volvo’s Smart View with an optional Obstacle Detection feature, providing an all-round safer working environment for operators and on-site workers.

On top of the modern features provided by the new-generation design, the enhanced models boast several innovative engineering updates specific to high-reach excavators. These include a prolonged working range thanks to an extension boom concept that offers greater variation, and an enhanced machinery structure and hydraulic system, which have been optimized to carry heavy attachments.

The hydraulic lines have also been optimized for demolition, through an increase in the size of the X1 return line, which reduces the back pressure of the attachment, and a dedicated drain line for the attachment to improve oil leak rates from the rotating motor attachment.

The tailor-made Demolition Assist tool provides visual/audible alerts on the working range and stability information for demolition configurations, while an integrated HD front-view camera display ensures maximized productivity and operator comfort. 

In addition, the purpose-built cab offers optimum visibility, perfect for high-reach demolition work, while the scratch-resistant, one-piece P5A-classified front window and reinforced roof window are both easily cleaned with an optimized wiper system.

The machine is also ergonomically improved due to increased functionality in the control levers, for example, an optional Comfort Drive Control and tilting function for the cab are available. 

Volvo high-reach excavators are built to ensure maximum safety in all demolition applications. Their robust structure, great stability – even with heavy tool weight – and outstanding hydraulics ensure a strong performance in the toughest of demolition projects. 

The electro-hydraulic system uses intelligent technology to offer accurate controllability, high productivity, and excellent fuel economy, while a hands-on tilt function and ergonomically placed controls make it even easier to get a productive day’s work done.

Versatility has been a key design factor for the new-generation EC400 and EC500 demolition excavators and their compatibility with a wide range of Volvo/external supplier attachments. A sophisticated attachment management system stores the settings for up to 20 different hydraulic attachments. Furthermore, it is now easy to change from an ultra-high-reach boom to a standard digging configuration, so the excavator can remain busy even outside of high-reach tasks. 

The EC400 and EC500 demolition excavator models are supported by Volvo CE's global service and spare parts network. They will be available for customers in Europe and North America to order from April 2025.