Delivering new levels of power and fuel efficiency on infrastructure projects
Following the introduction of the new generation Volvo excavator range last year, Babcock reports a strong uptake of the EC210 and EC220 models in general construction and plant hire. In a fiercely competitive 21-22 tonne (t) market segment, the two models combine premium quality and competitive pricing, pushing boundaries in performance, efficiency and total cost of ownership.
Despite the seemingly improved infrastructure project rollout from government, construction contractors in South Africa are generally navigating a challenging operating environment marked by high inflation, rising material costs and fuel price volatility, resulting in squeezed margins.
To run profitable operations, contractors are placing value on cost-effective strategies, including the adoption of fuel-efficient and highly productive equipment – a vital approach to reducing total cost of ownership (TCO) and maintaining competitiveness.
With specific engineering upgrades that deliver enhanced power, durability and fuel efficiency, the EC210 and EC220 from Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) directly address these operational needs across general construction, plant hire and earthworks applications.
“The 21-22 t excavator segment is a major volume driver in South Africa, but it is very competitive, with a large number of suppliers competing for market share. A key differentiator for us with the new Volvo EC210 and EC220 is that we have brought to market a premium Volvo product that is competitively priced,” explains Quintin O’Reilly, Head of Sales at Babcock’s Equipment business.
Part of the larger five-model range that also includes the EC260, EC300 and EC360, the 21-t EC210 replaced the previous EC200DL, while the 22-t EC220 replaced the old-generation EC210DL. By combining a stronger frame, a more efficient powertrain, intelligent hydraulics and a superior operator environment, this new generation of Volvo excavators is built to deliver greater uptime, lower running costs and higher productivity on demanding jobsites.
Efficiency and productivity
At the heart of the EC210 and EC220 models are the Volvo D5E or D6E motors that integrate engine-pump optimisation technology, contributing to the machines’ exceptional fuel efficiency – getting more work from every litre of diesel.
The new range features increased hydraulic flow for responsive, accurate control in digging and loading operations. Operators benefit from smoother, easier movement when digging as well as travelling and lifting simultaneously, due to the harmonised boom and arm movement.
In recent tests conducted by Volvo CE, the EC210 delivered an up to 7% productivity edge and 14% better fuel efficiency over competitor offerings in a similar weight class – even when operated at lower RPMs.
For contractors in Africa, juggling performance expectations with fuel economy and uptime, the EC210’s results suggest it is more than capable of punching above its weight – particularly in applications such as road construction, site preparation and utilities.
The new EC220 was tested against the EC210, delivering 32% greater productivity, while maintaining similar fuel efficiency at a similar RPM. This highlighted its value in high-volume operations such as materials handling and bulk excavation. The EC220 therefore makes a strong all-rounder, marrying power and precision for work that demands both.
Precision in operations
To help contractors meet the complex demands of modern projects, the new generation EC210 and EC220 excavators can be equipped from the factory with Volvo Dig Assist – a suite of tools designed to deliver excavation accuracy in a fraction of the time compared to conventional methods.
Dig Assist delivers exceptional accuracy and eliminates the need for time-consuming manual site marking and depth checks. Key functionalities include 2D for easily setting depth and slope on simpler jobs, In-Field Design for using satellite technology to design and excavate complex shapes with centimetre-level accuracy, and 3D functionality for uploading complex engineering plans for large infrastructure projects.
“With Dig Assist, we are giving contractors a powerful tool to execute complex projects with maximum precision. In modern projects, margin for error means that even minor deviations in excavation depth, slope, or alignment can lead to costly re-work and resultant heavy penalties,” says O’Reilly.
In addition, the optional On-Board Weighing feature provides real-time data on the bucket’s load, preventing overloading of trucks and ensuring every vehicle is filled to its optimal capacity.
Operator heaven
The design of the new generation Volvo excavator range places a huge focus on operator comfort. The revamped cab offers improved ergonomics, intuitive controls and advanced human-machine interface (HMI) systems, providing operators with a comfortable, productive working environment, with enhanced visibility, reduced noise levels and efficient HVAC systems.
A standard rearview camera and an optional three-point seatbelt enhance site safety, a growing priority on major projects across South Africa and southern Africa at large.
Structural strength
Moving beyond offering heavy-duty as an option, Volvo CE has engineered the entire new generation as an ‘HD lineup’. The upper frame has been significantly redesigned for increased robustness and strength.
This means every machine that rolls off the production line is built from the ground up for the toughest jobs, whether that is working in the hard rock quarries or on large-scale infrastructure projects.
“The robust undercarriage is the ‘backbone’ of the EC210 and EC220 excavators, enabling stability during heavy operations, and enduring harsh conditions. Given that an excavator’s undercarriage can account for up to 50% of its ownership and operating costs, buying an excavator that comes with a durable, high-quality system not only minimises downtime, but also maximises long-term performance and reduces TCO,” says O’Reilly.
Aftersales and financing
Over and above the modern design of the machines, strong aftersales support from Babcock ensures efficient operations for contractors by minimising machine downtime, maximising productivity and extending equipment lifespan through proactive maintenance and expert technical assistance.
“Our robust aftersales programme, which hinges on high parts availability and a comprehensive geographical footprint across all major construction hubs, helps customers reduce unplanned downtime through scheduled maintenance, as well as immediate, on-site support to resolve any technical issues,” says O’Reilly.
In addition, the availability of flexible funding options from Volvo Financial Services (VFS) makes the buying process quick and easy. VFS offers competitive, tailored funding, designed to match each customer’s operating needs. Key benefits include flexible payment plans and competitive interest rates.
“A combination of fuel efficiency, operator comfort, an unmatched structural strength, complemented by strong backup service and financing, makes this range one of the most cost-effective to run per hour in this size class. This holistic approach lowers operational costs, minimises downtime, increases productivity, and improves cash flow, providing a sustainable competitive advantage in such a demanding market,” concludes O’Reilly.
