Behind the scenes: Inside the development of Volvo CE’s New Generation Excavators

Rickard (first on the left) with the New Generation Excavator development team at the Jinan Technology Center

Region Asia presents some of the most challenging conditions for construction machinery. From bustling urban centres to remote quarrying sites and agricultural work, Volvo machines must perform seamlessly in environments ranging from the freezing temperatures of Japan to the intense heat of Southeast Asia.

The development process at Volvo CE’s Jinan Technology Center in China began with a simple but crucial goal: to create a high-performance New Generation excavator range capable of thriving across Asia’s varied applications and climates. The team started by analysing what worked well in the current excavator lineup and identifying key improvements that customers wanted.

Customer-driven innovation

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

Feedback from dealers and customers—many of whom had used the previous generation of Volvo excavators for over a decade—was instrumental. Customers emphasised the need for maximum productivity, superior fuel efficiency, and the ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

A 20-ton performance powerhouse

The 20-ton class remains the most popular excavator category, making it a natural focal point 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 contributes to up to 15% fuel savings, a key advantage of Volvo CE’s New Generation excavators. Internally, this design process is known as Pump Optimisation, ensuring efficiency while extending the working life of critical components.

Designed for ease of maintenance

Volvo CE placed significant emphasis on simplifying maintenance, particularly for operators working in hot and humid environments.

“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.

The New Generation Excavators at the Jinan Technology Center

Safety and sustainability as core priorities

Safety has always been a cornerstone of Volvo CE’s design philosophy. Volvo Group pioneered the three-point safety belt, which remains in use today after being gifted patent-free to the world.

For the New Generation of excavators, the Jinan team ensured that Volvo CE’s legacy of safety innovation continued. ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) cabs are now standard, alongside 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 a critical consideration. The new machines are built at Volvo CE’s Shanghai facility—one of the company’s most environmentally efficient factories, which has already met its 2030 CO₂

emissions reduction goals. Additionally, Volvo collaborated with approved suppliers and long-standing partners who share its sustainability ambitions, resulting in an environmentally optimised supply chain.

Built for Region Asia and proven in the field

With the first machines now at work and delivering productive services to customers, Rickard and the team from the Jinan Technology Center are delighted with the early feedback.

“The response from our customers in Region Asia 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 Region Asia—designed to withstand its unique applications and climates. For our engineers and designers, hearing this is the ultimate reward.”

With these innovations, Volvo CE continues to redefine performance, efficiency, and sustainability in the construction industry—ensuring their machines meet the demands of today and tomorrow.