To help reduce jobsite noise, exhaust emissions, and reduce maintenance, many construction equipment manufacturers have been busy producing all electric versions of their diesel powered machines, such as the 220+ ton electric crawler cranes that Liebherr recently unveiled. Volvo Construction Equipment is the latest to announce an all-electric machine with the announcement of the midsized, wheeled excavator, called the EX03.
The first thing you may notice about the EX03 is the large video screen on the back of the machine, something that I don’t believe I’ve ever seen before. This screen can serve 3 different functions:
· A real-time view of the front of the machine, so vehicles trailing behind can see what is up ahead.
· A text-based screen to help alert workers what movements the machine is going to make
· A safety communication live stream, which allows the operator to make eye contact with workers and the general public to reduce safety issue
image courtesy of Volvo CE
Like most of the other electric machines that have been announced previously, Volvo promises that this midsized, 14 metric ton excavator will have the same performance as a similarly sized diesel version. The X03 is currently in the concept stage, so Volvo does not have immediate plans to bring it to market, but it shows the possibilities that electronics on heavy machinery can allow for.
“This prototype is a significant step forward in the evolution of medium electric construction machines. As our first electric excavator concept in the mid-size range, we have been quick to build and expand on our existing electromobility technology. With the same power and force as a diesel machine of the same size, there has been no compromise on performance.”
Check out the short video below, from Volvo, to see the video screen in action:
Shane is the creator of Construction Junkie and an active construction project manager. In his career, he has managed interior remodel projects, site development, construction safety, governmental project compliance, and facility maintenance. He has a strong passion for construction technology and safety, as well as sharing the knowledge or insights he has gained throughout his career.