What does it take to develop an entirely new lineup of excavators geared to fulfil the different needs of clients across the Asia region? We chatted to Rickard Gustafsson, Head of Product Platform Excavators at Volvo CE’s Jinan Technology Centre, to find out.

Asia has some of the most demanding environments for building machinery. Volvo machinery must perform flawlessly in situations ranging from the frigid winters of Japan to the scorching heat of Southeast Asia.

The development process at Volvo CE’s Jinan Technology Centre in China began with a straightforward but critical goal: to build a high-performance New Generation excavator range capable of thriving in Asia’s many uses and climates. The team began by examining what worked effectively in the existing excavator portfolio and identifying important upgrades that customers desired.

Customer-driven innovation

“Our first step was to examine how existing machines were performing across different applications and markets in the Asia region,” said Rickard Gustafsson, Head of Product Platform Excavators at Volvo CE’s Jinan Technology Center.

Dealers and customers provided valuable feedback, many of whom had used the previous generation of Volvo excavators for over a decade. Customers stressed the importance of optimum output, improved fuel efficiency, and the capacity to tolerate severe weather conditions.

A 20-ton performance powerhouse

The 20-ton class remains the most popular excavator category, making it an obvious focus for Volvo CE’s development efforts.

“With the New Generation EC210, we set out to create a performance powerhouse that could easily adapt to different applications. The key was to ensure that the engine and hydraulic pumps worked in perfect harmony at the lowest possible RPM. This approach allows customers to harness the full strength of the machine without overloading the engine. The results have exceeded our expectations—delivering exceptional performance across all climates and applications,” explains Rickard.

This refined engine-hydraulic synergy also leads to up to 15 percent fuel savings, a significant benefit of Volvo CE’s New Generation excavators. Internally, this design process is called Pump Optimisation, and it ensures efficiency while prolonging the working life of key components.

Designed for ease of maintenance

Volvo CE placed a strong emphasis on simplifying maintenance, especially for operators operating in hot and humid situations.

“We engaged in extensive discussions with customers about their daily operational challenges. One common request was for longer service intervals. But beyond that, we wanted to make maintenance as effortless as possible. That’s why the new excavator range features easy-to-reach filters, service, and lubrication points. The operator can walk around the machine in a single lap each morning and complete all essential checks quickly—then get straight to work,” Rickard adds.

Safety and sustainability as core priorities

Safety has always been a key component of Volvo CE’s design philosophy. Volvo Group invented the three-point safety belt, which is still in use today after being granted patent-free to the globe.

The Jinan team ensured that Volvo CE’s safety innovation tradition was carried forward with the New Generation of excavators. ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) cabs are now common, coupled with high-definition rearview cameras and multipoint seatbelts.

“Everyone deserves to be as safe as possible at work. That’s why we made ROPS standard on all New Generation excavators. We also added a high-definition rearview camera to enhance operator visibility and safety on the job site,” says Rickard.

Beyond safety, sustainability was an important issue. The new machines are being constructed at Volvo CE’s Shanghai factory, which is one of the company’s most ecologically friendly facilities and has already met its 2030 CO_₂ emission reduction targets. Furthermore, Volvo worked with approved suppliers and long-term partners who share its sustainability goals, resulting in an environmentally optimised supply chain.

Built for Region Asia and proven in the field

Rickard and the Jinan Technology Centre team are pleased with the early feedback now that the first machines are operational and providing productive services to clients.

“The response from our customers in the Asia region has been fantastic. Many have told us they wish they had these capabilities years ago,” Rickard shares. “Most importantly, they feel that these machines are truly built for the Asia region—designed to withstand its unique applications and climates. For our engineers and designers, hearing this is the ultimate reward.”

With these improvements, Volvo CE continues to revolutionise performance, efficiency, and sustainability in the construction sector, ensuring that its machines fulfil the needs of today and tomorrow.

For more information, visit: https://www.volvoce.com/asia/en-as/