Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) introduced the G-Series L90Gz wheel loader and the DD100B double drum asphalt compactor during bauma CONEXPO INDIA 2018, held at HUDA Ground, Gurgaon, from December 11 to 14.

“With infrastructure developments increasing in India, we presented the L90Gz and the DD100B. Both models provide high performance and reliability contractors need to meet tight project deadlines,” said Dimitrov Krishnan, Vice President and Head of Volvo CE India.

The Volvo G-Series L90Gz loader with Z-bar linkage is now available in India with a BS-III certified engine, offering high torque at low rpm to ensure low fuel consumption. The wheel loaders feature maximum power of 175hp at 1700 rpm, maximum breakout force of 168.7 kN, max. static tipping load of 10,380 kg at full turn, and is available with buckets ranging from 2.4 m3 to 4.5 m3. The powerful Volvo engine is part of the machine’s ideally-matched all-Volvo powertrain, designed to work for optimised performance. Volvo’s unique eco-pedal also helps to guarantee fuel consumption, is kept to a minimum, applying mechanical push-back force when engine rpm is about to exceed the economic operating range.

The company’s double drum compactors feature independent dual-frequency and multi-amplitude functionality which make them more versatile. Furthermore, the rotating console plus the in-built automatic reversing of eccentrics mean productivity is increased and completion time shortened. In addition, the powerful KOEL 105 HP engine delivers stronger performance and the robust design of the machine means it will work harder for longer time giving owners better return on investment. The DD100 B features a rolling width of 1676 mm, vibration frequency of 42/31 hz and operating weight with heavy duty sun shade of 10,025 kg.

Registering notable growth in 2018, Volvo CE India is all set to hit volumes in 2019. The construction equipment (CE) manufacturer plans for growth with distribution coverage as the mainstay improving its range, irrespective of the market’s growth trajectory, according to Dimitrov Krishnan, Vice President and Head, Volvo CE India.

How was 2018 in CE segment for you? Please share your outlook for 2019.
We witnessed notable growth in 2018 as compared to last year. We will be hitting volumes this year which is hit by mostly everybody. We will definitely go for growth based on the distribution coverage improving our range, even if the market doesn’t grow. That would depend on the function of the market as well as the way in which plans are executed.

What kind of projections do you have for India’s road sector?
Road sector in India is driving growth in the market and will continue to be the dominant segment. However, it is crucial that Ministry of Road Transport and Highways continues to maintain the phase of project award and project progress. While there is a lot of hustle around the impact of elections on construction sector, the road building policy is not likely to get reverse just because the government changes. This is because government has firmed up the master plan after doing basic data analysis with regard to connectivity requirement, and then started infrastructure projects like Sagar Mala or Bharatmala. While I do not see risk in medium term, in short term, some risk can come. Road building is likely to continue for 10-15 years.

Is there any parity in pricing of equipment for regions?
We do provide pricing guidelines to our sales organisation but capital equipment is our function, what kind of configuration customer chooses which varies thereby changing pricing. Largely, variation in pricing is minor when making investment in assets which costs lots of money. It is a competitive market, price is quite stable.

Alongside the two new models, Volvo CE showcased a range of machinery from across its product lines. “The range of earthmoving equipment displayed at bauma Conexpo India 2018 demonstrates how Volvo is building a better tomorrow,” Krishnan said. “We also showcased the powerful performance of the EC200D during light demonstrations at the show. We introduced the machine just 12 months ago, but it’s already established itself as one of the best 20-tonnes units in Asia.”

The EC200D has already delivered iron-clad performance in India for iron ore producer Geomin Industries. To facilitate a one-stop solution for customers, Volvo CE and Volvo Financial Services launched competitive financing schemes and on-the-spot credit approvals at bauma Conexpo India.

It is crucial that Ministry of Road Transport and Highways continues to maintain the phase of project award and project progress.
Dimitrov Krishnan, Vice President and Head, Volvo CE India