Following last year’s launch of the first electric machines (L25 Electric compact wheel loader and ECR25 Electric compact excavator) from Volvo Construction Equipment in Japan, the company is introducing a third model to the country – its largest yet. The EC230 Electric excavator will be unveiled at the Japan CSPI-Expo in May, ahead of the first units heading to job sites across the country. It is the first commercial introduction of the EC230 Electric to Asia following its introduction to North America and select European markets.
The momentum continues to build behind Volvo Construction Equipment's rollout of electric machines across Asia with the upcoming launch of the EC230 Electric excavator in Japan. The machine will be shown to visitors at this year’s CSPI-EXPO in Tokyo to mark its commercial introduction to Japan. construction machinery parts
The machine was piloted on a project in China in 2021 ahead of its commercial introduction, which began in North America and select European markets. Its launch in Japan marks the first time it is being offered in Asia, and it will become the largest electric excavator available in the country.
Having previously concentrated efforts on electrifying its range of smaller equipment, the EC230 Electric marks a notable advance for Volvo CE, being the first time the company has electrified a larger excavator.
During the two-month pilot project in China, the EC230 Electric worked in real-world applications to gather as much feedback as possible on the product and technology from a customer’s perspective.
“There's significant customer interest in Japan for electric construction machines that produce zero emissions. The unveiling of the EC230 Electric at CSPI-Expo and the anticipated market launch is a testament to Volvo CE’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040. Since we first introduced electric machines to the market in 2023, we’ve been encouraged by the positive feedback from our customers. We are confident that the addition of the EC230 Electric will help us further expand our customer base by providing sustainable options that serve the needs of the Japanese market,” said Shoji Isamu, Head of Market Japan at Volvo CE.
The EC230 Electric will be commercially available in Japan starting May 2024, and customer interest in the machine is strong. Initially, five machines will be available, offered on a rental basis through local dealer Yamazaki Machinery. Two are already slated for long-term rental via Nishio Rent All, and a further unit is scheduled for delivery to a major contractor for work on various projects. Further discussions on other units are ongoing. Japan is a perfect launchpad for EC230 Electric as companies continue striving to progress in their sustainability goals. Japan is home to the largest number of Asian companies committed to Science Based Targets Initiatives (SBTIs), with levels on par with markets in North America and Europe.
The EC230 Electric leverages the established technology of the regular diesel-powered EC230 Volvo crawler excavator, merging robust power with the added advantages of electrification. Operators of the EC230 Electric will experience reduced noise and vibration, along with heightened hydraulic responsiveness attributable to the electric motor. This contributes to an enhanced working environment inside the cabin or on the job site.
With an operating weight of between 23,000 and 26,100 kg and a bucket capacity of 0.48-1.44 m³, the EC230 has a lifting capacity of 7,560 kg. It can also dig to a depth of 6,730 mm, with a digging reach of 9,930 mm. The machine has a width of 2,990 mm with a tail swing radius of up to 2,850 mm. The EC230 Electric includes a battery capacity of 264 kWh, 600 V battery voltage, and an indicative runtime of up to 5 hours, depending on the application.
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