Volvo CE converts mid-sized wheeled loader to electric

Volvo CE’s newly-electrified L120H wheeled loader. Photo: Volvo CE

The Swedish manufacturer worked with US-based technology company Parker Hannifin to convert the diesel machine to electric, as part of its strategy of advancing electromobility in construction.

The machine represents the first time Volvo has converted a mid-sized loader in this way and the company says it will be commercially available to selected customers in Europe before the end of this year.

The electric version of the L120H uses the conventional machine as its base and Volvo says that, should demand for the electric version grow, it could convert customers’ existing diesel machines to electric in the future.

Volvo also says it is developing a new business model which will make it easier for its customers to make the leap to electric machines.

Rapid charging
The L120H loader is powered by 240kWh batteries and Volvo says it has a runtime of approximately five hours in medium duty applications.

The company adds that charging from 0% to 100% can be achieved in between 1.5 and 2 hours and insists that, in all performance aspects, the electric machine is equal to the diesel version.

While the original diesel version of the L120H will still be available to customers, Volvo says it is looking to speed up its roll-out of zero emissions models through electromobility partnerships with companies such as Parker Hannifin, Limach and CE Engineering Solutions.

Partnership model
Volvo insists that partnering with technology firms to convert diesel machines to electric is allowing the company to accelerate the development of larger battery-electric machines, such as the EC230 – a 23 tonne excavator which utilises the company’s own electrification technology.

Carl Slotte, head of sales region Europe at Volvo CE, said, “Our commitment to partnership allows us to take a leading position in transforming our industry, with electric solutions that are built to fulfil market demand and tailored to suit the changing needs of our customers.

“Working together, we are scaling up our portfolio of electric machines, extending the versatility of our range and transforming our industry towards a carbon neutral future.”