With plans to launch new models at bauma CONEXPO India 2018, Volvo CE is bullish on government’s infra drive.

The present infrastructure boom has lifted demand for larger classes of construction and earthmoving equipment in India. Volvo Construction Equipment (CE) is all set to meet the surging demand for high performing and reliable equipment in the country, says Dimitrov Krishnan, Vice President and Head, Volvo CE India.

What can we expect from you at bauma CONEXPO India this edition?
At bauma Conexpo India 2018, we will be introducing two new models to the region: a new large-capacity wheel loader and an asphalt compactor. The two new machines will help Indian contractors meet the growing demand for high-performing, reliable equipment for infrastructure projects such as road building and earthmoving.

Are any new products or innovations going to be unveiled?
Yes, the two models mentioned above will demonstrate Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE)’s strength in supporting infrastructure projects.

What will encourage your customers to most prefer your equipment while buying?
Volvo CE remains the only major manufacturer present in all equipment sectors – mining, road building or general construction. We have one of the largest and most experienced dealer networks in India, able to provide expert advice and support whenever it’s needed, and there are a range of Customer Service Agreements available.
As infrastructure development in India moves into the 21st Century, construction operations are in the spotlight like never before. The fine margins on modern job sites mean that securing a small advantage in something as routine as excavator choice can translate into a big difference in profitability. With Volvo CE, construction companies know they can take advantage of equipment with best-in-class productivity, and when support’s needed world-class backup is available.

Volvo CE also has a long history in India, completing 20 years now. We have a large and experienced team at Volvo CE that understands the market, and the needs of our customers.

How favourable do you see the present market conditions for an optimistic year ahead for the segment?
We’ve had a good year and are seeing growing demand for larger classes of construction and earthmoving equipment in India. Some of the larger classes of earthmoving equipment we offer include wheel loaders like the L220H and L350H, which are popular with large mining companies. The L220H has a bucket capacity of 4.5 cu.m to 8.2 cu.m, operating weight of 31,160 kg to 33,130 kg, and maximum static tipping load at full turn of 22,090 kg. The L350H has a bucket capacity of 6.9 cu.m to 12.7 cu.m, operating weight of 50,000 kg to 53,000 kg and maximum static tipping load at full turn of 34,320 kg.

Our biggest sellers in India is the EC480D excavator, followed by the L150H wheel loader, and the EC300D and EC380D excavators. We expect the EC750D and E950E to become best sellers within two to five years and gain more traction as customers look for larger equipment.

The EC950E excavator is our newest product in India. The 90-tonnes excavator offers an ideal combination of power and stability, to handle high capacity duties in the toughest applications. With a bucket breakout force of 424 kN and an arm tearout force of 408 kN, the EC950E offers superior digging force, particularly when working with hard and heavy materials.

The outlook to 2020 is still very bright. India’s potential is clear, and the drive to improve infrastructure and energy supply will unquestionably facilitate further growth in the economy and the construction equipment industry. As a company, Volvo CE has deep roots in India and an established sales and support network. We are well-positioned to play our own part in the next stage of India’s development and are excited to do so.

Fine margins on modern job sites mean securing a small advantage in excavator choice can make a big difference in profitability.
Dimitrov Krishnan, Vice President and Head, Volvo CE India